Business Card Dimensions Explained

Business cards are used as a way of formal introduction and left behind after business meetings. They are handed out to exchange personal information that one can easily remember for future reference. Usually these cards contain the name, company name, address, phone number, fax number, email address, educational qualifications, professional details, etc.

They are used by people from different walks of life like proprietors, salesmen, chief executive officers, insurance company officials, restaurant managers, hotel staff, bank employees, shop owners, etc.

Giving business card is an excellent method for self-promotion and marketing. They help people contact plumbers, carpenters, repairmen, baby-sitters, etc. They spread the word around, and help businesses get customers and clients.

As you already know that business cards are a way of self-promotion and marketing, this makes it very important to print the business cards carefully with relevant information.

You can print the business cards on both sides or include the information on one side only. You can use plain white card with black words or you can choose a colorful card with designer fonts. You can even get the card engraved or raise its print.

But the most important point to be considered is the business card size. It should be able to fit in a wallet or purse easily. Business card measurements may vary from country to country. Let us have a look at the dimensions of business cards in the United States.

The standard size in the U.S. is 91 mm x 59 mm, that is, 3.5 x 2 inches. This business card size is also followed in Canada and Latin America. When bleeds are used the business card measurement is 3.6 x 2.1 inches. These extra inches are used for adding designs or backgrounds that may extend beyond the standard business card measurement.

The bleed makes the card a bit over-sized, and after printing it is cut down to the original size. This causes the print to bleed off at the edge without having to keep the white borders.

While you are designing the card, you should keep the document page size equal to the business card measurement including the bleed area. This means that the business card measurement should be 3.75 inches wide and 2.25 inches high.

If you do not want to use bleed, you need to set the document size to 2.5 inches x 2 inches. After you complete printing your card, you can cut down the bleed area.

Keep the text and logo to be included in the business card within the design area. The text should be 3.25 x 1.75 inches inside the business card area. In case you have extra information, you can design the card in such a way that you are able to use up both the sides.

In United Kingdom, the business card dimension is 3.346 inches x 2.165 inches (85 x 55 mm). This measurement is also followed in Germany, Spain, and Switzerland. The 3.54 inches x 2.165 inches (90 x 55 mm) dimension is followed in Australia, Denmark, Norway and Sweden. Japan follows 3.582 inches x 2.165 inches (91 x 55 mm) for standard businesses cards.

Today, it has become very easy to design and make your own business cards at home by using the right software. A business card is a very important document that helps introduce you to people. Therefore, make sure you print a legible card with relevant information on your it.