How to choose the right leaflet size for the job

Size is the first decision in a leaflet campaign and the one people spend the least time on. It sets how much you can say, how the leaflet behaves in a letterbox, and what the whole campaign costs.

The four common sizes and what each is for

A6 is a postcard-scale reminder. DL fits a standard rack and a hand. A5 is the default door-drop workhorse. A4 is for detail: price lists, service menus and property particulars.

  • A6 (105 x 148mm) - single offer, event reminder, insert
  • DL (99 x 210mm) - rack cards, handouts, folded menus
  • A5 (148 x 210mm) - the standard door-drop leaflet
  • A4 (210 x 297mm) - detailed lists and property sheets

Letterbox behaviour matters more than you think

Anything wider than a typical letterbox aperture has to be folded or forced, and forced leaflets arrive creased. If a drop is the main channel, design to go through cleanly rather than designing then discovering the problem at delivery.

Match size to the length of your message

One offer and a phone number does not need A4. A full service list with prices does not fit A6 without shrinking type past readability. Write the copy first, then choose the size that holds it at a comfortable reading weight.

The cost consequence of going bigger

Bigger sizes use more paper, weigh more and are slower to carry in bulk, which affects both print and distribution. Going from A5 to A4 for a 10,000 drop is a meaningful budget change, so make it deliberately.

Frequently asked

What size do most local businesses choose?

A5 double-sided. It holds a real message, drops cleanly through letterboxes and gives the best balance of impact and cost at volume.

Are folded leaflets worth the extra?

When you need A4 worth of content in an A5 footprint, yes. Folding is a small finishing cost and it protects the leaflet in transit.

Can you print a non-standard size?

Yes, though bespoke trims can cost more because they waste more of the parent sheet. We will tell you if a standard size gets the same result cheaper.

Talk the size through before you design

Five minutes on format saves a reprint. Tell us the message and we will recommend the size.