FAQs
Have questions about envelope sizes, styles, paper, printing or ordering? Find answers to some of the most common questions about business envelopes, mailing envelopes, invitation envelopes, custom printed envelopes, samples, bulk orders and more. Whether you’re choosing the right envelope size, comparing closure styles, preparing artwork for custom printing or simply trying to find the best envelope for what you’re mailing, these FAQs can help point you in the right direction. Still have a question? Our team is here to help.
Envelope Sizes, Styles & Ordering
How do I know what envelope size I need?
Start with what you’re putting inside. If you already know the size you need, you can shop by envelope size. If you’re not sure, our Envelope Size Guide can help you compare common sizes and styles. For something very specific, reach out to our team and we can help you find the right fit. Generally, an envelope should measure 0.25" larger than what is being inserted.
What are the most common envelope sizes?
The right envelope size depends on what you’re sending, but a few sizes are used more often than others. #10 envelopes are a standard choice for everyday business mail. Invitation and announcement envelopes come in a range of sizes for cards, invitations and stationery, while booklet and catalog envelopes are designed for larger documents and materials. Our Envelope Size Guide can help you compare envelope dimensions and find the best fit for your project.
What is the standard business envelope size?
The #10 envelope is the most common business envelope. It measures 4 1/8" x 9 1/2" and is typically used for invoices, statements, checks, letters and everyday business mail.
What types of envelopes are available?
There are a lot of options, and the best one really depends on what you’re sending. Envelopes.com carries business envelopes, window envelopes, security envelopes, invitation envelopes, booklet and catalog envelopes, photo mailers, remittance envelopes, open-end envelopes and other specialty styles. You can also narrow your search by size, color, paper, closure style and other features.
What envelopes are best for business mail?
For everyday business correspondence, #10 envelopes are one of the most common choices. Window envelopes are helpful when the recipient’s address is already printed on the document inside, such as an invoice or statement. Security envelopes provide additional privacy for sensitive contents. For larger documents that shouldn’t be folded, booklet or catalog envelopes may be a better fit.
What’s the difference between booklet and catalog envelopes?
The easiest way to tell them apart is by where they open. Booklet envelopes open along the long side, while catalog envelopes open along the short side. Booklet envelopes are a popular choice for brochures and marketing materials. Catalog envelopes work well for documents, reports and other larger pieces that you don’t want to fold.
What is the difference between simple seal and peel and seal?
Both are self-sealing options that do not require moisture, but they work differently. Simple Seal uses two adhesive surfaces that seal when pressed together. Peel & Seal uses a single adhesive strip protected by a removable liner. With Peel & Seal, you remove the liner and press the flap closed. Both are convenient choices for everyday mailing. The best option depends on the envelope style and how you prefer to seal your mailings.
What envelope should I use for mailing documents?
For documents that can be folded, a standard business envelope may work well. For larger documents, presentations, reports or other materials that should remain flat, consider a booklet or catalog envelope. Check the envelope dimensions before ordering to make sure your materials will fit comfortably.
What is the difference between window and non-window envelopes?
Window envelopes have a clear opening that allows an address or other information printed on the document inside to show through. They’re commonly used for invoices, statements, checks and other business mail. Non-window envelopes have a solid front and can be addressed by printing directly on the envelope, handwriting the address or applying a label.
What’s the difference between Peel & Seal and regular gum?
Peel & Seal envelopes have a removable strip covering the adhesive. Peel it off, press the flap down and you’re done. Traditional gum closures need to be moistened before sealing.
Do you carry security envelopes?
Yes. Security envelopes have an interior pattern that helps keep the contents from showing through. They’re commonly used for checks, invoices, financial documents and other mailings where additional privacy is important.
Can I buy envelopes in bulk?
Yes. Many of our envelopes have quantity-based pricing, so buying more can lower your price per envelope. Have a larger project, recurring need or quantity you don’t see online? Contact us for a custom quote.
Envelope Samples
Can I get an envelope sample before I order?
For many products, yes. We know it can be hard to judge a color, paper, size or finish from a screen, especially when you’re ordering a large quantity. Look for the sample option on the product page. Sample availability varies by product.
Custom Printed Envelopes
Can you print my logo or design on an envelope?
Yes. Many of our envelopes can be customized with your logo, return address, text or artwork. Look for the customization options on the product page to see what’s available for that envelope.
Can I order custom printed business envelopes?
Yes. Many business envelopes can be customized with a company logo, return address, text or other artwork. Custom printed envelopes are a great option for everyday correspondence, invoices, statements, direct mail, marketing campaigns and other business mailings. Check the customization options on the product page to see what’s available for the envelope you’re considering.
Can I upload my own artwork?
Yes. You can upload your own artwork when customizing eligible products. For the best results, use high-quality artwork and check the template or artwork guidelines for the envelope you’re ordering. If something doesn’t look right, our team can help before it goes to print.
Do you have envelope printing templates?
Yes. Templates are available for many of our customizable envelopes and can help you set up your artwork correctly before uploading it.They show important areas such as the envelope dimensions, print area, safety area and bleed when applicable.
What are bleed and safety areas?
If your design prints all the way to the edge of the available print area, it may need to extend into the bleed area. This helps prevent an unwanted white edge after production. The safety area is where important information such as your logo, text or address should stay so it isn’t too close to an edge or production area. Your product template will show you where these areas are.
Can you print white ink or other specialty printing?
Specialty printing is available on select envelopes. White ink is especially useful on darker papers and colors where standard ink may not stand out. Check the customization options on the product you’re interested in or contact us if you have something specific in mind.
Custom Printing, Proofs & Production
Will I see a proof before my envelopes are printed?
Proofing depends on the product and printing option you choose. When a proof is part of your order, you’ll have an opportunity to review it before production. Take a close look at spelling, addresses, artwork and placement before approving your proof. Once approved, your order can move into production.
How long will my custom envelope order take?
Production times vary by product and the type of printing or customization you choose. You’ll see the current production information during the ordering process. Keep in mind that production time and shipping time are separate.If you’re working toward a specific date, contact us before ordering so we can help you understand your options.
When will my envelope order ship?
Timing depends on what you order. Plain, in-stock merchandise can usually move through our warehouse quickly, while customized products need production time before they’re ready to ship. Check your order information for the most current timing.
What if something I ordered is out of stock?
Inventory can change, particularly on popular sizes, colors and styles. If an item in your order becomes unavailable, we’ll let you know and help you with the available options.
What is your return policy?
Return eligibility depends on the product and whether it has been customized. Because policies can change, check our current Returns & Exchanges page for the latest information before sending anything back. If there’s a problem with your order, contact us. We’d rather understand what happened and help you figure out the next step.
Can I print envelopes on a home or office printer?
Often, yes, but every printer is different. Envelope size, paper weight, finish and construction can all affect how an envelope feeds through a printer. Check your printer’s specifications first. For a larger project, we strongly recommend testing a sample before ordering a full quantity.
Why are envelopes jamming in my printer?
It could be the envelope thickness, size, feed direction or your printer settings. Some printers also have limits on the paper weights and envelope styles they can handle. Check your printer’s envelope or manual-fe
Will the envelope color I see online match the actual envelope?
We do our best to represent colors accurately, but screens vary. A color can look different depending on your phone, monitor and display settings. If matching a specific color matters to your project, order a sample first.
What does envelope paper weight mean?
Paper weight gives you an idea of the weight and feel of the paper, but two papers with the same listed weight can still feel different depending on how they’re made. Our Paper Weight Guide can help you compare options. For projects where the feel of the paper really matters, a sample is the best way to make your final decision.
Your Account & Reordering
Can I reorder envelopes I’ve purchased before?
Yes. If you have an account, your order history makes it easier to find products you’ve purchased before. For customized envelopes, available reorder options will depend on the original order and how it was created.
What if I can’t find the envelope I need?
Ask us. We carry a very large envelope assortment, and not every project fits neatly into a standard search. If you need help with a particular envelope size, color, quantity, paper, closure style, printing requirement or something more specialized, contact our team and tell us what you’re working on.
Still Have a Question?
We’re here to help. Whether you’re choosing the right envelope size, matching a color, comparing paper options, setting up artwork or planning a larger custom printed envelope order, contact our team and we’ll help you figure it out.
