Shipping with a Plain White Envelope (PWE) is a great way to save on costs for low-value, lightweight items — but it comes with important limitations. To ensure reliable delivery and avoid violations on Drip, it's essential to understand exactly what qualifies for PWE shipping and what doesn’t.
This article outlines the types of items allowed in PWE, what packaging methods are acceptable, and what could cause issues with USPS or Drip’s Trust & Safety policies.
What’s Allowed: Items You Can Safely Ship in a PWE
PWE is meant for thin, flexible, paper-based items that weigh 2 ounces or less and do not require tracking or added protection.
You can safely ship:
Raw trading cards (typically up to 4–5, sleeved, ungraded)
Stickers or decals
Paper collectibles like tickets, postcards, or small inserts
Printed coupons, event passes, or codes
Mini art prints or bookmarks — if flat and lightweight
These items must be able to bend slightly without damaging the contents and must remain within USPS’s First-Class letter limits.
🔒 Tip: Stick to flat paper or thin plastic items under 2oz and you're generally safe for PWE.
What’s Not Allowed: Items That Violate PWE Rules
Many sellers mistakenly try to use PWE for items that are too heavy, thick, rigid, or high in value — leading to USPS rejections, damaged items, or buyer complaints.
Do not ship the following using PWE on Drip:
Graded slabs (e.g., PSA, CGC)
Cards inside hard cases, screw-downs, or magnetic holders
Cards in thick toploaders
Stacks of cards that exceed 2oz or create bulk
Coins, pins, or enamel products
Anything requiring padding, bubble wrap, or rigid protection
Any order over $20 in value (use tracked shipping)
Even if the item fits inside an envelope, it may not qualify as machinable letter mail — and USPS can reject it or apply parcel pricing.
⚠️ Important: Items that break PWE rules may be returned by USPS or result in platform enforcement if buyers report consistent delivery problems.
Packaging Do’s and Don’ts for PWE
✅ DO:
Use a standard #10 or A9 envelope
Use penny sleeves and soft team bags to protect cards
Tape items lightly to a backing board or soft cardstock (but keep it flexible)
Double-check total weight does not exceed 2oz
Clearly label the envelope and seal it securely
🚫 DON’T:
Use toploaders, magnetic holders, or any hard plastics
Overstuff the envelope (thickness must remain under 0.25")
Use padded envelopes while claiming PWE — that requires package pricing
Mark high-value items as shipped in PWE
Tape items so tightly to a rigid backing that the envelope can't bend
Remember, PWE contents are processed by high-speed sorting machines. Anything too thick or stiff can jam the equipment — leading to lost or damaged mail.
Platform Risks of Misusing PWE on Drip
While PWE is a seller-controlled shipping option, it does come with risk — especially when used improperly.
Violations or misuse may lead to:
USPS returns or delays
Buyer complaints about missing or damaged items
"Item not received" disputes (especially since PWE has no tracking)
Refunds charged against the seller
Platform warnings or removal from trusted seller programs
Restrictions on future use of untracked shipping
Drip’s Trust & Safety team monitors delivery issues. Repeated misuse of PWE — especially when tied to missing items or dishonest shipping — may trigger account reviews.
Should You Use PWE?
Use PWE only when you’re confident that:
The item is low-risk, low-value, and under 2oz
Your packaging meets USPS letter standards
You’re prepared to accept the lack of tracking
Your buyer is aware of what to expect
If any part of your shipment stretches these rules, it’s best to upgrade to First-Class Package or Ground Advantage — both of which include tracking and better protection.
PWE can be a smart shipping option when used responsibly. But it’s not for every order — and it should never be used to cut corners on item safety or delivery reliability.
When in doubt, choose a tracked method to protect your customers, your ratings, and your reputation on Drip.