Shipping Trading Cards Safely on eBay: Collector's Guide

The Trading Card Shipping Challenge

Trading cards are:

• Easily damaged
• Often valuable
• Subject to strict grading standards
• Buyer expectations are high

One bent corner = return request + bad feedback.

Shipping Supplies Needed

Essential Supplies:

Packaging Method: Single Cards

The Standard Method:

Insert card in penny sleeve

Insert sleeved card in top loader

Seal top loader in team bag

Sandwich between cardboard

Place in bubble mailer

Cost per card: ~$0.42

Packaging Method: Multiple Cards

For 2-10 Cards:

Individual penny sleeves

Stack in single top loader (if same value) or individual top loaders

Rubber band or team bag

Cardboard on both sides

Bubble mailer or small box

Shipping Options for Cards

Single Card (1 oz or less):

Multiple Cards/Graded Cards:

eBay Standard Envelope

What It Is:

• Cheap option for single cards
• $1 or less for tracking
• Restrictions apply

Requirements:

• Max 3 oz
• Max 6" x 9"
• Max 0.25" thick
• Non-machinable OK

Limitations:

• No insurance
• Limited tracking
• Cards must be in top loader

Insurance Decisions

When to Insure:

Graded Card Shipping

PSA/BGS/CGC Slabs:

• Already protected, but fragile
• Wrap in bubble wrap
• Use small box (not mailer)
• Always insure
• Signature on $200+

Packaging:

Wrap slab in 2 layers bubble wrap

Place in 6x4x4 box

Fill void with paper/peanuts

Use fragile label

Common Mistakes

❌ PWE for valuable cards - No tracking, no protection ❌ No top loader - Cards bend easily ❌ Card touching mailer - Tape or staple damage ❌ Oversized packaging - Unnecessary cost

Setting eBay Shipping

For Single Cards:

• Default: First Class or Standard Envelope
• Calculated based on weight
• Add handling for materials

For Graded/Valuable:

• Priority Mail or UPS
• Insurance included in price
• Signature confirmation option

Returns for Trading Cards

Cards are often "not as described" returns due to:

• Condition disagreements
• Centering issues
• Hidden defects

Protection:

• Photo front and back
• Note any flaws in listing
• Grade conservatively

Using Atoship for Cards

Benefits:

• Discounted First Class rates
• Easy insurance add-on
• Tracking integration with eBay
• Batch printing for multiple sales

Setup:

• Create "trading card" package preset
• Weight: 1-3 oz
• Dimensions: 6x4x1

Ship cards safely and affordably with Atoship's discounted USPS rates.