Quick Answer: DL size is 99 x 210 millimetres, or 9.9 x 21 centimetres, which is exactly one third of an A4 sheet. It is the standard size for flyers, rack cards, invitations and compliments slips, and it fits neatly into a DL envelope, which measures 110 x 220mm. When you print a DL flyer, add 3mm bleed on every side so your artwork file is 105 x 216mm.
DL Size at a Glance
| Measurement | DL size |
|---|---|
| Millimetres | 99 x 210mm |
| Centimetres | 9.9 x 21cm |
| Inches | 3.9 x 8.3 inches (approx.) |
| With 3mm bleed | 105 x 216mm |
| Pixels at 300dpi | 1169 x 2480 pixels |
| DL envelope | 110 x 220mm |
What Does DL Stand For?
DL comes from the German “DIN Lang”, meaning “DIN long”. DIN is the German standards body whose paper sizes became the international A sizes used in Australia. DL started as a long envelope format designed to hold an A4 page folded into three, and the flyer size took its name from that envelope.
You may also see DL explained as “Dimension Lengthwise”, but the German origin is the accurate one.
Why DL Size Is One Third of A4
Fold an A4 sheet (210 x 297mm) into three equal panels and each panel measures 99 x 210mm, which is DL size. This is why DL works so well for both flyers and brochures:
- A flat DL flyer is printed on its own at 99 x 210mm, or three to an A4 sheet.
- A tri-fold A4 brochure folds down to DL size, giving you six panels of content.
- An A4 letter folded into three slides straight into a DL envelope.
Not sure whether you need a flyer or a folded brochure? Our guide to flyer vs brochure explains the difference.
Common Uses for DL Size
The tall, narrow shape of DL size fits in a hand, a pocket, a letterbox and a brochure rack. Popular uses include:
- Flyers and promotional handouts
- Rack cards for reception desks, hotels and tourism displays
- Invitations, event programs and save-the-date cards
- Menus, especially takeaway and specials menus
- Compliments slips and vouchers
- Tri-fold brochures for services, price lists and property marketing
For restaurant and café menus, see our guide to custom menu printing in Melbourne.
DL Size Compared to Other Sizes
| Size | Dimensions | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| A6 | 105 x 148mm | Postcards, small flyers, invitations |
| DL | 99 x 210mm | Flyers, rack cards, tri-fold brochures |
| A5 | 148 x 210mm | Flyers, booklets, notepads |
| A4 | 210 x 297mm | Letters, brochures, larger flyers |
DL is the same height as A5 and the same width as an A4 page folded in three, so it gives a slim, tall shape without the bulk of A5.
DL Envelopes and What Fits Inside
A DL envelope measures 110 x 220mm, leaving a little room around a 99 x 210mm card or flyer. It also holds an A4 sheet folded into three, which makes it the most common envelope for business letters, invoices and direct mail. If you need to post an A5 item or an A4 sheet folded once, you will usually need a larger C5 envelope (162 x 229mm) instead.
If you are planning envelopes alongside letterheads and other branded items, see our business stationery page.
How to Set Up a DL Flyer for Printing
- Set the page to 99 x 210mm, usually portrait.
- Add 3mm bleed on every side, so the file is 105 x 216mm.
- Keep text and logos at least 5mm inside the trim edge.
- Use images at 300dpi at final size.
- For a tri-fold brochure, set up an A4 page with three panels, and make the inside folding panel slightly narrower (usually by 1 to 3mm) so it tucks in cleanly. Ask our prepress team for exact panel measurements before you design.
- Export a print-ready PDF in CMYK, with fonts embedded.
The artwork and graphic prepress team at Eplot can check your DL file before it goes to print.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DL size in cm?
DL size is 9.9 x 21cm (99 x 210mm).
Is DL size the same as one third of A4?
Yes. DL is exactly one third of an A4 sheet, which is why an A4 page folded into three fits a DL envelope.
What is the difference between DL and A5?
Both are 210mm tall, but DL is 99mm wide while A5 is 148mm wide. DL is slimmer and fits a DL envelope and brochure racks; A5 gives you more space for content.
What size is a DL envelope?
A DL envelope is 110 x 220mm, slightly larger than a 99 x 210mm DL flyer so it slides in easily.
What paper is best for DL flyers?
A medium-weight stock suits most DL flyers, while a heavier card stock works better for rack cards, invitations and vouchers that need to feel sturdy. Ask the Eplot team to recommend a stock for your purpose and budget.
About Eplot
Eplot is a commercial printer based at 28 Tope Street, South Melbourne, with 20 years in the printing industry. Our team runs HP Indigo digital printing, wide format printing, pre-press and finishing in-house, and manages specialty work through trusted print partners, so you deal with one dedicated account manager from quote to delivery. Eplot works with schools, universities, training organisations, property developers, corporates and small businesses across Melbourne.
Print Your DL Flyers with Eplot
Ready to print? Request a quote with your quantity and preferred stock, or call Eplot on 1300 660 228. See our full range of flyer printing options, from DL and A6 to A5 and A4.
