How to Ship a Valuable Trading Card: The Complete Guide for Sellers

Why Proper Packaging Matters for Trading Cards

Trading cards are fragile. Even a light bend, tiny chip, or corner compression can cause:

• Downgrades during PSA/BGS grading
• Buyers requesting refunds
• Lost customers
• Negative eBay feedback

For sellers, choosing the right card mailer, bubble mailer size, and outer packaging isn't optional—it's your first line of defense.

Method 1: How to Ship a Few Cards

Step 1: Use Penny Sleeves (Scratch Protection)

Always start by sliding your card into a penny sleeve. This cheap, soft plastic sleeve is the first line of defense against scratches and surface wear.

Step 2: Add a Rigid Holder (Bend Protection)

• Option A: Card Savers
  These are a popular choice because they are cost-effective and can typically hold 4-5 sleeved cards securely. They are also the preferred soft sleeve for submitting cards to grading companies like PSA.
  
  
• Option B: Top Loaders
  These are the classic, hard plastic holders. While slightly more expensive, they offer superior rigidity for ultra-valuable single cards.

Recommendation: Use Card Savers for economy and multi-card shipments, and Top Loaders for your most valuable singles.

Step 3: Seal With a Team Bag (Moisture Protection)

To protect your card from moisture, dust, and the card holder from opening, seal it inside a team bag. This small, clear plastic bag is the final touch for your card's inner armor

Step 4: Choose the Outer Packaging

• PWE (Plain White Envelope) — acceptable only for non-valuable cards (typically under $10) and when the buyer agrees to PWE shipping.
  
  
• 4×8 Bubble Mailer — Suitable for shipping small numbers of cards; provides cushioning and allows USPS tracking. 
  
• 6×10 Bubble Mailer — best for larger small lots or multiple holders

Method 2: How to Ship Bulk Cards (Sealed Boxes)

Step 1: Wrap with Bubble Wrap

Use 2–3 layers of bubble wrap around the entire box.This absorbs shock and prevents corner crushing.

step 2: Tape Securely

Use packing tape to ensure the bubble wrap doesn’t come loose.

step 3: Box the Product

Put the wrapped box into a sturdy cardboard box with 1–2 inches of clearance on all sides. Fill voids with bubble wrap, packing paper, or air pillows to prevent movement.

step 4: Seal & Label

Tape all seams securely and apply your shipping label (4×6 thermal labels recommended).

Why this works: The boxed+wrapped approach prevents corner crush and box deformations that commonly occur in transit.

Essential Trading Card Shipping Supplies 

• Bubble mailers
• Bubble wrap
• Cardboard protection
• Thermal shipping labels (4×6)
• Team bags, penny sleeves, top loaders
• Strong shipping boxes
• Packing tape / sealing tape

FAQ

How many stamps for a bubble mailer?

Bubble mailers are treated as packages. Use USPS First-Class Package or another package service—don’t rely on regular Forever stamps.

What’s the cheapest way to ship trading cards?

For cards under $3–5:PWE (plain envelope) is cheapest. For valuable cards: Bubble mailer + First-Class Package is worth the cost.

Do graders accept top loaders?

PSA prefers card savers for submissions. Top loaders are not recommended for grading because they’re harder to remove cards from safely.

Conclusion: Package with Confidence from Jiaro Pack

Knowing how to ship a valuable trading card is a fundamental skill that protects your profits and your reputation. By choosing the right method, avoiding common errors, and using quality supplies like bubble mailers for sports cards and durable cardboard for shipping cards, you can ensure every card arrives perfectly.

At Jiaropack, we provide the professional-grade trading card shipping supplies that serious sellers rely on. From 4x8 Bubble Mailers and protective Bubble Wrap to professional 4x6 Thermal Labels, we have everything you need to build a trusted shipping process.

Ready to ship like a pro? Explore Jiaropack's full range of packaging solutions and get the right tools for the job today!