If you’re shipping low-cost or lightweight items on Drip, you may have heard of PWE — short for Plain White Envelope. It’s a simple and affordable way to send items that don’t require extra packaging or tracking. But while it’s easy to use, it’s also important to understand the limits and risks that come with it.
This guide explains exactly what PWE is, when it’s appropriate to use, and how to ship correctly — so you can save on costs without risking lost items or shipping violations.
What Does “PWE” Mean?
PWE refers to shipping a product using a standard paper envelope — usually a #10 envelope (business letter size) — through USPS First-Class Mail as a letter. It’s untracked, lightweight, and best for flat, paper-based items.
PWE is commonly used by sellers for:
1–4 raw trading cards in penny sleeves
Stickers or decals
Small printed inserts (e.g., promo codes, tickets, lightweight collectibles)
Because PWEs are shipped as regular First-Class letters, they move through USPS’s letter-sorting machines — which means envelopes must meet strict size, thickness, and flexibility standards.
Why Use PWE?
For certain items, PWE offers real benefits:
Lower cost than tracked parcel shipping
Fast delivery times for domestic letters (usually 1–5 business days)
No packaging required beyond the envelope
It’s especially useful for low-value items where tracking isn’t essential — but only if you follow all the size and weight rules.
Drip’s PWE Policy and Limits
To keep shipping fair, safe, and reliable for buyers, Drip enforces its own rules on PWE usage:
Maximum weight: 2 ounces total
This includes the envelope, contents, and any inserts.Item type: Only safe for thin, flexible, non-fragile items
You may not use PWE for items that are rigid, bulky, or easily damaged.Value threshold: Use PWE only for low-value orders
If your item is valuable or irreplaceable, use tracked shipping instead.Packaging: No rigid protection (e.g., toploaders, hard cases)
The envelope must remain flat and flexible — USPS may reject envelopes that feel lumpy or thick.
⚠️ Drip reserves the right to flag sellers who misuse PWE, especially if buyers report items missing, damaged, or unshipped.
USPS Requirements for Letter Mail (PWE)
To qualify as a First-Class letter under USPS rules, your envelope must:
Requirement | Limit |
Max weight | Drip imposes 2 oz limit) |
Thickness | Between 0.007" and 0.25" |
Length | Between 5" and 11.5" |
Height | Between 3.5" and 6.125" |
Flexibility | Must bend easily and lie flat |
Contents | Must not cause bulges or sharp edges |
If your envelope exceeds any of these, USPS may classify it as a parcel, triggering higher rates — or return it to sender.
When Should You Use PWE?
Use PWE only when all of the following are true:
Your total shipment (including envelope) weighs 2oz or less
The contents are thin and flexible (e.g., no slabs or cases)
The item is low in value (e.g., <$15)
You’re willing to ship without tracking
Your buyer understands the shipping method
PWE is not appropriate for:
High-value items that need proof of delivery
Fragile or rigid items (e.g., PSA slabs, coins, pins)
Multiple items that require padding or stacking
What Happens If You Use It Incorrectly?
If you ship using PWE but violate platform or USPS standards:
The item may be returned or delayed by USPS
The buyer may open a dispute if the item doesn’t arrive
Repeated issues may lead to Trust & Safety intervention
Drip may require you to switch to tracked shipping for future orders
Final Tips for PWE Shipping Success
Keep it light — stay under 2 oz, total
Use soft protection like penny sleeves and team bags
Tape items to cardstock if needed — but keep it bendable
Seal the envelope securely and clearly label it
Don’t use toploaders or hard plastics unless upgrading to tracked shipping
Plain White Envelope shipping is a helpful tool — but it only works when used correctly. If you’re ever unsure, choose a tracked option instead. It protects both you and your buyer, and helps maintain trust across the platform.