If you sell sports cards under $20 on eBay, eBay Standard Envelope is one of the most affordable ways to ship while still including tracking. However, there’s a couple things to know before deciding to use it — and why it eventually led me to buy a thermal printer.

What Is eBay Standard Envelope?

eBay Standard Envelope is a shipping option specifically for lightweight, flat collectibles—like trading cards, coins, stamps, or postcards—valued under $20.

Key Features

• Low Cost: Shipping costs between $0.74 and $1.32 depending on weight
• Tracking Included: Unlike a regular stamp, you and your buyer can track the shipment from drop-off to delivery for peace of mind
• eBay Seller Protection: Because tracking is included, sellers have some protection if the buyer claims “item not received”
• Convenient for Buyers: Allows for affordable shipping on inexpensive cards, helping you keep prices competitive

Eligibility & Limitations

Not all items are eligible. Your card shipment must:

• Sell for less than $20
• Weigh less than 3 oz
• Be less than 0.25″ thick (fits in a standard or rigid envelope)

How to Package for eBay Standard Envelope

Proper packaging is a must to keep your card protected and compliant with eBay and USPS requirements.

Typical packaging includes:

• Penny sleeve and top loader (or semi-rigid holder)
• Optional: team bag
• Placed and sealed inside a standard or rigid envelope (not a bubble mailer)

Be sure your finished package remains under the 0.25-inch thickness limit. Too thick and USPS may return it—or charge the buyer extra.

The Shipping & Label Process

• After the card sells, you purchase the Standard Envelope label through eBay as a PDF document
• Print the label and attach it to your envelope
• Drop the envelope in a USPS mailbox or at the counter

Important: For Standard Envelope, eBay currently issues only a PDF—not a QR code—so you must print the label yourself before mailing.

Why I Bought a Thermal Printer (A Side Note)

While I recognize the power of shipping with eBay Standard Envelope, I also quickly realized the hassle of printing. Since eBay doesn’t provide a QR code for these labels (unlike some other shipping options), I realized I’d need to print at home or pay to have each label printed at a store—which added up fast and became inconvenient.

That’s why I decided to buy a thermal printer. It isn’t essential if you’re just starting out—you can use a regular printer, library, or local print shop—but if you’re selling cards regularly, having a thermal printer at home saves money, time, and gives your packages a professional look.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Inexpensive tracked shipping for low-value cards
• Seller and buyer protection
• Simple to use for routine card sales

Cons:

• Thickness/value limits mean not all cards qualify
• Must print the label at home (no QR option for in-post office printing)
• More hands-on compared to other, pricier shipping methods

Conclusion

eBay Standard Envelope is a great shipping option for low-value cards and collectibles, offering both affordability and tracking. Just be prepared to print your labels at home—otherwise, you may encounter added hassle and cost. For me, relying on this method quickly prompted the worthwhile investment in a thermal printer. If you find yourself selling more often, it might be a smart upgrade for you as well.