Guide to Standard Folder Sizes

Key Takeaways:

• Using standard folder sizes ensures compatibility with standard paper sizes and common filing systems.
• The correct folder size creates a snug, appropriate fit, preventing documents and accessories from bending and ripping.
• The type and size of the letter or document, the recipients, and your budget will determine the ideal folder size.

Custom folders are not just about securing and organizing your documents. With the right design, add-on features (like inner pockets), and size, they transform loose papers into a cohesive marketing tool and present documents in a professional and convenient way.

Since folders come in various standard sizes, it can be confusing to pick the one that fits the letter or document you wish to present, organize, or distribute.

If you’re unsure about which standard folder size to pick, see the chart below.

Folder Sizes Chart

Standard Folder Sizes	Exact Measurement in Inches	Best for
Letter Size Folder	9″ x 12”	US Letter (8.5” x 11) and A4 International (8.27” x 11.7”)
Legal Size Folder	9″ x 14.5″	Longer documents typically used in legal proceedings, real estate, deeds, and business contracts
File Folders	9.5″ x 11.75”	Print marketing materials
Mini Folders	6″ x 9″	Smaller documents like business cards, certificates, and proposals

Letter Size Folders (9″ x 12″)

They are the perfect size for standard letterhead, brochures, flyers, and sell sheets measuring 8.5” x 11” or US Letter, which is common in North America.

However, these folders can also hold A4 International, which is slightly narrower and taller at 8.27” x 11.7”. It is the standard size for general printing, documents, and letters worldwide, except in North America.

Legal Size Folders (9″ x 14.5″)

They are the perfect fit for legal-size paper (8.5″ x 14″), providing extra length for documents that exceed standard letter size.

Legal-size folders are typically used to organize and present contracts, deeds, wills, real estate documents, and court filings. They are also popular in client meetings, audits, and legal proceedings.

File Folders (9.5″ x 11.75”)

Also known as Manila folders, they are the go-to option for presenting and distributing print marketing materials such as brochures, product details, and price quotes.

These folders are typically printed with company logos and brand colors because they are also commonly used to hold and organize documents and records in filing cabinets.

Mini Folders (6″ x 9″)

Measuring 6″ x 9″, these folders fit smaller and shorter documents, such as flyers, brochures, business cards, and proposals. They are often used to present media kits and branded takeaways given to attendees at trade shows, conferences, and networking events.

These folders are also used to present welcome packets for guests and employees and to hand out report cards to students.

How to Pick the Right Folder Size

Several factors come into play when deciding on the “best” folder size, from the paper size and industry standard to the thickness of the content and accessories. Here are the key factors you need to consider:

Paper size. The general rule is to use a folder that is slightly larger than the documents to prevent bending and ripping. The ideal folder size is usually 0.5” to 1” bigger than the paper it needs to secure.

Thickness. You may want to have a bigger size allowance if your folder needs to hold more documents, or they come with accessories like pens and notepads.

Recipient. In some cases, you need to choose a folder size based on the recipients. For instance, legal-size folders convey professionalism during client meetings, audits, and legal proceedings, while mini folders offer convenience to attendees at events.

Portability. At trade shows and networking events, you may want to use smaller folders to make it easy and convenient to carry and hand out your promotional materials.

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The ideal standard folder size presents your documents, letters, and matching accessories in a secure and professional way.

Whether you need presentation folders with inner pockets and business cards slits or tear-resistant file folders to organize contracts and records in filing cabinets, PrintPlace can customize them according to your exact needs.