Why Common Sized Envelopes Are Important to Your Direct Mail Program

If you ever Google envelope sizing, you will most likely come across a list of “common sized” envelopes.  Usually, there is a chart that lists various kinds of envelopes – based on shape and the back flap – that will show you standard sizing.  In fact, we did one of those charts in the blog post “Envelope Fundamentals – Learning the Basics” as part of our Production 201 Series.

But why are these sizes considered common, and how can that help your program?

These sizes are generally made to fit common paper sizes.

For instance, a standard #10 Business Envelope perfectly fits an 8.5 x 11-sized letter that is folded in thirds. The 6 x 9 booklet envelope fits the same letter-sized paper folded in half.  And a 9 x 12 fits the same letter with no folding.

Common sizes allow manufacturers to dedicate entire machines to running just 1 sized envelope. 

• This helps to eliminate the need to change out the equipment and dies for new sizes after each run of envelopes.
• Multiple clients can be set up to run back-to-back.

The manufacturer can run blank “overs” of the envelopes, so they have stock on hand for jobs that need already converted envelopes.

More manufacturers can supply common-sized envelopes vs. custom-sized envelopes.

So, what does this mean for your program? It means:

• Common sizes can give you more manufacturers to choose from making it easier to get competitive pricing.
• Common-sized envelopes run more efficiently leading to lower costs.
• When you need off-the-shelf envelopes for Jet printing, they are more readily available in these common sizes.

And PS can help you with evaluating your creative and seeing if moving to a common-sized envelope can help bring cost savings and/or efficiencies to your current mailings. Reach out to your PS account team with any questions – we are here to help!