Standard business cards are 3.5 inches by 2 inches, but have you ever wondered why most cards are that size and shape? It’s because they fit easily into a wallet, purse, or pocket. Credit cards, appointment cards, and licenses are also about the same size for the same reason.
Shape It Up
Typical business card sizes are a good choice because people are familiar with them. However, using different shapes can make you unique and memorable.
We discussed the advantages of using a standard business card size. Now, let’s explore when you might choose square or rounded corner business cards instead.
Square business cards measure 2.5″x 2.5″. This shape is perfect for displaying a logo or product image prominently and gives a unique and creative feel. These cards catch attention on an event table, bulletin board, or in a customer’s hand.
Rounded corner business cards are 3.5″x 2″ with quarter-inch rounded corners. They have a memorable, modern look that stands out. In a stack of business cards, the rounded corners make yours extra eye-catching and stylish.
Design Guidelines
We have thousands of business card templates designed by our talented team for you to choose from. You can also upload your own design by simply selecting a file on your computer. Just remember to follow these important guidelines.
Bleed Area: 3.61″x 2.11″
If you have a background color or pattern, make sure it goes a little beyond the edges of the card. This ensures there won’t be any white borders, even if the cards are cut a bit off-center.
Actual Size: 3.5″x 2″
As the name suggests, this is where we cut your cards. We ensure all your cards are centered and uniform, but please read about the safe printing area.
Safe Printing Area: 3.36″x 1.86″
Keep all important text or design elements within this area to make sure nothing gets cut off. This box is only slightly smaller than the actual card size.
Business Card Size in Pixels: 1050 x 600 pixels
If you or someone on your team is designing your card, the card size should be 1050 x 600 pixels. To avoid any white edges when printing, make your design 1083 x 633 pixels. Keep important details within 1008 x 558 pixels to ensure they aren’t cut off during printing.
Standard
Bleed
91.7 x 53.6 mm
3.61 x 2.11 in
1083 x 633 px
Trim
88.9 x 50.8 mm
3.50 x 2.00 in
1050 x 600 px
Safe area
85.4 x 47.3 mm
3.36 x 1.86 in
1008 x 558 px
Rounded Corner
Bleed
91.7 x 53.6 mm
3.61 x 2.11 in
1083 x 633 px
Trim
88.9 x 50.8 mm
3.50 x 2.00 in
1050 x 600 px
Safe area
85.4 x 47.3 mm
3.36 x 1.86 in
1008 x 558 px
Square
Bleed
66.7 x 66.7 mm
2.63 x 2.63 in
788 x 788 px
Trim
63.7 x 63.7 mm
2.51 x 2.51 in
752 x 752 px
Safe area
60.7 x 60.7 mm
2.39 x 2.39 in
717 x 717 px
Business card dimensions visual guide:
Usage of Business Cards
Business cards have long been a staple in the professional world, serving as a compact and efficient tool for sharing contact information. Despite the rise of digital networking, business cards remain relevant and valuable. This guide will explore the various uses of business cards, highlighting their importance in today’s business landscape.
1. Networking and First Impressions
Networking Events: Business cards are essential at networking events, conferences, and trade shows. They provide a quick and easy way to exchange contact information with potential clients, partners, or employers.
First Impressions: A well-designed business card can make a lasting impression. It reflects your professionalism and attention to detail, potentially influencing how others perceive your brand or services.
2. Establishing Brand Identity
Brand Recognition: Business cards are a tangible representation of your brand. By incorporating your logo, color scheme, and brand message, you reinforce your brand identity every time you hand out a card.
Consistency: Maintaining consistent branding across all business cards used by your team ensures a unified and professional image, making your brand more memorable.
3. Convenience and Accessibility
Easy Information Sharing: Business cards provide a convenient way to share your contact details, including your phone number, email address, and physical address. They can also include links to your social media profiles and website.
Portability: Business cards are small and portable, making them easy to carry and distribute whenever the opportunity arises.
4. Enhancing Professionalism
Professional Etiquette: In many cultures, exchanging business cards is a standard practice in professional settings. Having a business card ready shows that you are prepared and take your business seriously.
Follow-Up: After a meeting or event, a business card serves as a reminder for follow-up communication. It helps maintain the connection established during the initial encounter.
5. Marketing and Promotion
Promotional Tool: Business cards can also serve as mini advertisements. By including a brief tagline or a call to action, you can pique interest in your services or products.
Discounts and Offers: Some businesses use their cards to offer discounts or special deals, encouraging recipients to use their services.
6. Personalization and Creativity
Unique Designs: Creative business card designs can stand out and be conversation starters. Unconventional shapes, materials, or features like QR codes can make your card more memorable.
Personal Touch: Handing over a business card adds a personal touch to the interaction. It feels more personal than just sharing a digital contact and can help build a stronger connection.
7. Cross-Industry Relevance
Versatility: Business cards are used across various industries, from corporate sectors to creative fields. Whether you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, or part of a large organization, business cards are a universal tool.
Industry-Specific Information: Tailoring your business card to your industry can provide additional value. For example, including your professional title, certifications, or areas of expertise can highlight your qualifications.
