Whether you're a seasoned seller or just starting out, understanding how to ship cards efficiently and cost-effectively is essential. Fortunately, eBay's Standard Envelope Service provides a convenient option for shipping trading cards while keeping costs low. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about using eBay Standard Envelope Service to ship your valuable cards securely.
What is eBay Standard Envelope Service?
eBay Standard Envelope Service is a shipping option designed specifically for small, lightweight items such as trading cards, coins, stickers, and patches. It allows sellers to ship these items in a standard envelope with tracking, offering a more affordable alternative to traditional shipping methods.
Benefits of eBay Standard Envelope Service:
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Cost-Effective: One of the primary advantages of using eBay Standard Envelope Service is its affordability. With lower shipping rates compared to parcel services, sellers can save money on shipping costs, making it an attractive option for buyers as well.
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Convenience: eBay Standard Envelope Service streamlines the shipping process for small items, reducing the need for bulky packaging materials and simplifying logistics. Sellers can easily print shipping labels and drop off envelopes at designated locations or schedule pickups with postal carriers.
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Tracking (better than a stamp!): Despite its small size, eBay Standard Envelope Service includes tracking information, providing both sellers and buyers with peace of mind knowing the whereabouts of their packages throughout the shipping process. Please note this isn't the same tracking service level as parcel mail and each individual envelope is not scanned. Scans happen at the tote level so there can be delays between scans and actual delivery. But its better than a stamp!
How to Ship Cards Using eBay Standard Envelope Service:
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Prepare Your Cards: Ensure that your trading cards are properly protected and secured before shipping. We recommend a semi-rigid holder for 1-2 cards to keep it flexible for sortable/machinable mail which is the cheapest option. Or a toploader for multiple cards or thicker memorabilia cards which won't pass through a mail sorter. Always place masking/painters tape over the opening to prevent movement. (Scotch tape leaves residue on the holder is not preferred).
- If using a toploader for multiple cards you will need to ship the items 'Non-Machinable' which requires extra postage and the envelope to be stamped 'Non-Machinable'.
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Select eBay Standard Envelope Service: When creating your eBay listing, choose eBay Standard Envelope Service as the shipping option. Specify the weight of the envelope. If shipping non-machinable, we recommend choosing 3oz and stamping or writing on the envelope 'NON-MACHINABLE'.Â
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Print Shipping Labels: Once your item sells, print the shipping label provided by eBay. Make sure to include the buyer's address and any relevant shipping instructions.
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Package Securely: Place your trading cards inside an plain white envelope (PWE) or a sturdier self sealing Armalope mailer and seal it shut.
- When using an Armalope, just drop your item inside, seal it and ship it. The mailer has an internal pocket to prevent moving during shipment.
- If using a PWE, we recommend taping the card holder to a piece of paper and wrapping the paper around the holder to prevent movement during shipment. Additionally, apply another piece of tape across the envelope seal to ensure contents remain inside.
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Affix Shipping Label: Attach the printed shipping label to the envelope, making sure it is clearly visible and securely affixed. If using postage stamps, ensure that the correct postage amount is applied.
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Drop Off or Schedule Pickup: Take your packaged envelopes to the nearest post office, shipping center, or designated drop-off location. Alternatively, schedule a pickup with your preferred postal carrier for added convenience.
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Track Shipment: Monitor the progress of your shipment using the tracking information provided. Communicate with the buyer to keep them informed about the status of their package and address any concerns or inquiries.
- Shipping Times: Be mindful of shipping times and delivery estimates, especially during peak seasons or holidays. Provide accurate shipping estimates to manage buyer expectations effectively.
In conclusion, eBay Standard Envelope Service coupled with an Armalope mailer offers a convenient and cost-effective and safe solution for shipping trading cards to buyers worldwide. By following these steps and best practices, sellers can ensure a smooth and hassle-free shipping experience, resulting in satisfied customers and successful transactions.
