Letters & Flats
Ship trading cards affordably with USPS letter-mail rates. Every label includes integrated tracking and optional insurance up to $50.
Limited tracking visibility
What are Letters & Flats?
Letters and Flats are the two lightest USPS mail classes — the same ones used for everyday envelopes. They are the most cost-effective way to ship trading cards, with postage starting at $0.74 for a 1 oz Letter.
| Specification | Letter | Flat |
|---|---|---|
| Max size | 6.125" × 11.5" | 12" × 15" |
| Max thickness | ¼" (0.25") | ¾" (0.75") |
| Max weight | 3.5 oz | 13 oz |
| Starting postage | $0.74 | $1.63 |
| Tracking included | Yes (IMB) | Yes (IMB) |
| Insurance available | Up to $50 | Up to $50 |
How tracking works
When you purchase a Letter or Flat label through TCG Quick Ship, a USPS Intelligent Mail Barcode is embedded in the label automatically. No extra steps required.
Print your label
Tracking is embedded in the label at purchase. Nothing extra to do.
Drop it anywhere
Letters and Flats do not need an acceptance scan. Drop in any USPS mailbox, hand to your carrier, or drop off at a post office.
Download or sync tracking
Download your shipments to import tracking to your marketplace, or let automatic sync handle it (Manapool is supported for auto-sync today).
Optional insurance up to $50
USPS does not include insurance on standard letter-mail. You can add coverage at label creation through our partnership with PIP Insurance.
| Shipment type | Max declared value | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| USPS Letters & Flats | $50.00 | 1% of declared value (minimum $0.20) |
See the Letter & Flat Insurance Plan doc for step-by-step instructions, including how to enable automatic insurance on every shipment.
Packing tips
Keep it machinable
Envelopes must flex through USPS sorting rollers. Rigid top loaders can trigger a $0.49 non-machinable surcharge. For Letters, use a penny sleeve + team bag + standard #10 envelope to stay within the ¼" thickness limit and avoid the fee.
- •Max thickness: ¼" for Letters, ¾" for Flats — keep it uniform
- •No plastic windows, strings, or clasps on the envelope
- •Recipient address must be parallel to the envelope's longest side
- •For rigid top loaders, expect the +$0.49 surcharge or upgrade to a Parcel
Want the full breakdown?
The Letters & Flats resource guide covers pricing tables, the Letter vs. Flat comparison, marketplace compatibility, and a full FAQ.
Read the full Letters & Flats guide