subject: The Different Types of Envelopes for Different Functions [print this page] The Different Types of Envelopes for Different Functions
Sending business communications? Mailing out invitations? In every situation, there's always the right envelope you can use. An envelope provides the recipient the first impression of the sender, especially if the letter is business-related. This is why it is important to choose the most appropriate envelope whenever you are mailing something.
Knowing the basic types of envelopes is helpful in discussing your envelope printing project to the printer of your choice. Compliant to the USPS standard rules on sizes, you may use any of these types of envelope:
Commercial Envelope
The most commonly used type of envelope for any mailed communications. These envelopes come in different size but the most often used is the standard #10 envelope. Used for many business-related mailings, commercial envelopes are perfect for machine insertion.
Window Envelope
This envelope has various personal and business correspondence purposes. Window Envelopes allow the sender to print the address on the content and show it through the window at the front, thus doing away with the necessity to address the outside of the envelope.
Wallet Flap Envelope
Commonly used for bank statements and other confidential documents, a wallet flap envelope provides extra protection for its contents. It has a square flap that goes about halfway the size of the envelope itself. Extra gum protection is provided for the seal flap.
Square Envelope
Square envelopes are used for various special purposes. They are the best choice for wedding announcements, party invitations and greeting cards for any occasion. Using square envelopes have some minor hitch, though. Since they are not standard-sized, square envelopes are not fit for machine insertion and you will be required to shell out extra postage cost.
Booklet Envelope
Also known as an open side envelope, a booklet envelope has its flap on its longer side. Envelopes of this type are perfect for sending out brochures, photos, and other mailings that are inserted without having to be folded. They are also ideal for automatic-insertion machines.
Catalog Envelope
These envelopes have flaps on their shorter side. They are usually used for mailing large catalogs, thick brochures, magazines or reports. Although they are not made for machine insertion, catalog envelopes are perfect if you envelopes with a nice presentation and durable for transport.
Clasp Envelope
Envelopes of this type are made from rugged, sturdy kraft or manila stock. They have metal clasps and strong reinforced holes. Their flaps are also heavily gummed for sealing. Clasp envelopes provide a secure closure that keeps your mail from opening accidentally.
Announcement Envelope
This envelope is ideal for commercial and social announcements or invitations for special events, such as weddings, graduations and baptisms.
Before investing on envelope printing, familiarize yourself with these types of envelopes. Remember, the envelope you choose for your mailing requirements is just as important as its intended content.
