The Forgotten P-Sizes of Canada

The “middle ground” paper format that never quite caught on

Document printing in Canada can be a tricky endeavor, as there are not one or two paper sizes, but three. Besides the international A-series and the US ANSI formats, Canada has their own P-series. Although the series has not been continued as it was not adopted sufficiently, it is still interesting to see how each country had a different idea on the width and length of papers. These formats are similar to the ANSI-series rounded to the next 5 mm, which results in the following size comparison:

A4: 210 × 297 mm; A3: 297 × 420 mm

P4: 215 × 280 mm; P3: 280 × 430 mm

Letter: 216 × 279 mm; Ledger: 432 × 279 mm

The comparison shows that the Canadian P-series follows the side ratio of the A-series while staying close to the main format of the ANSI paper sizes. However, while this might seem like the perfect middle ground, most copy shops or printers might have trouble supporting another different paper format. Furthermore, following international standards has many advantages, such as professional appearance or simply standardization. Most folders and other stationery equipment are made for the A-series, and the size ratio makes it easy to fit sheets of paper into different envelopes.

Keeping one format consistent, whether it is letter or A4 printing, is important, as the formatting of documents might shift if printed on the wrong paper size. Professional prints start with the right paper format after all, and especially in international business environments, the appearance of documents might decide over a good cooperation or failed negotiation.

For this purpose, BachelorPrint offers various A- and letter-formats, different paper weights, and add-ons to provide your documents the professional look they require.