Kartformat

Kartformat, or card format, is a term used to describe the physical dimensions and shape of card-like media. It is important in printing, packaging, and product design because size determines how a card fits with sleeves, readers, wallets, and die-cut machinery. In German-language contexts the written form is Kartenformat, while kartformat appears in some technical or vendor documents.

Common kartformats include:

- ISO/IEC 7810 ID-1 size for identification and payment cards: 85.60 by 53.98 millimeters.

- Business cards: about 85 by 55 millimeters in much of Europe; in North America, 3.5 by 2 inches (88.9 by 50.8 millimeters) is widespread.

- Playing and trading cards: standard poker size is about 63.5 by 88.9 millimeters; some games use slightly larger or smaller variants such as 66 by 91 millimeters.

In print production, kartformat also defines bleed and safe areas. A typical bleed is 2–3 millimeters on each edge, with a safety margin of roughly 2 millimeters inside the trim. Die-cut tolerances vary by equipment and material, influencing how tightly cards must be aligned.

Overall, kartformat is a practical descriptor rather than a single global standard. Different industries and regions rely on established formats or specify custom sizes to meet design, hardware, or packaging requirements. Designers and printers usually confirm exact dimensions with the project brief or vendor specifications.