How to Ship TCGPlayer Orders with Tracked PWE Labels Using EasyPost

If you sell trading cards on TCGPlayer, you know that shipping can make or break your margins. Standard USPS Advantage Package labels run $4-5 per order, which eats into profits fast — especially on lower-value sales. But there is a better way: tracked PWE (Plain White Envelope) labels.

Using EasyPost to generate USPS First Class labels at letter rates, you can ship tracked envelopes for as little as $0.78-$1.36 per label (USPS rates as of 2/9/2026). That is a savings of $3-4 per order compared to standard package shipping. Multiply that by hundreds of orders per month, and you are looking at serious money back in your pocket.

In this guide, we will walk through exactly how tracked PWE labels work, how to generate them with EasyPost, and how TCG-ShipSync can automate the entire process from CSV export to printed labels.

Why Tracked PWE Labels Matter for TCGPlayer Sellers

While TCGplayer’s automated dispute system doesn't always recognize letter-tier tracking as "official" proof of delivery, switching from manual stamps to tracked labels is a strategic move for any serious seller. It offers the same low price point as a standard stamp but with professional-grade benefits.

• Workflow Efficiency — Stop hand-writing addresses. Tracked PWE labels allow you to print 4x6 thermal labels in bulk, drastically cutting down on packing time and eliminating human error in addressing.
• The "Scam Deterrent" Effect — When a buyer sees a tracking number attached to their order, they are significantly less likely to file a fraudulent "Item Not Received" claim. The mere presence of a tracking link creates a layer of accountability that a plain stamp lacks.
• Manual Dispute Evidence — While the system might not auto-close a case, having internal routing data allows you to provide "Human-in-the-Loop" support with evidence of movement. This can be the deciding factor in TCGplayer support siding with you during a manual review.
• Professionalism at No Extra Cost — You are providing the buyer with a modern shipping experience for the exact same price as a traditional stamp. It signals that you are a high-volume, professional operation, which leads to better feedback and repeat customers.
• Data-Driven Shipping — Tracked labels let you see exactly where your letters are in the USPS network. If a specific sorting facility is experiencing delays, you can proactively communicate with buyers before they have a chance to get frustrated.

What You Need to Get Started

Before generating tracked PWE labels, you will need a few things:

1. An EasyPost account — EasyPost is a shipping platform that gives you access to discounted USPS rates. Sign up at EasyPost.com.
2. Your TCGPlayer order data — You will need your orders exported as a CSV file from TCGPlayer's seller portal.
3. Shipping supplies — Plain white envelopes (PWEs), top loaders or card savers, team bags, and a printer for labels.
4. A label printer or regular printer — Thermal label printers (like the DYMO 4XL or Rollo) work best, but you can use a regular printer and tape the labels on.

Step-by-Step: Generating Tracked PWE Labels with EasyPost

Automating the Entire Process with TCG-ShipSync

TCG-ShipSync was built specifically to solve this problem. It bridges the gap between TCGPlayer and EasyPost, turning what would be hours of manual work into a streamlined, semi-automated process.

Here is how TCG-ShipSync makes tracked PWE shipping effortless:

1. CSV Import with Smart Parsing

Simply upload your TCGPlayer order CSV into TCG-ShipSync. The app automatically parses all order details — buyer addresses, item quantities, card counts, and order values. No manual data entry required.

2. Smart Automation Rules for Weight and Dimensions

This is where TCG-ShipSync really shines. Instead of manually entering weights and dimensions for each order, you set up automation rules once. For example:

• "If card count is 1-4, set weight to 1 oz and dimensions to 6x4x0.25"
• "If card count is 5-8, set weight to 2 oz"
• "If order value is over $20, use padded mailer dimensions"

These rules run automatically every time you import orders. TCG-ShipSync assigns the correct weight and dimensions based on your rules, so every order is ready for label generation without manual intervention.

3. EasyPost-Ready Export

Once your orders have weights and dimensions assigned, TCG-ShipSync formats them for EasyPost. The export process generates a properly formatted file that can be used to batch-create shipments through EasyPost, generating all your tracked PWE labels at once.

4. Profit Tracking Built In

TCG-ShipSync does not just handle shipping — it also tracks your profit margins. The app factors in your card costs, shipping label costs, TCGPlayer fees, and other expenses to give you a clear picture of your net profit per order and across your entire business. You can see visual charts of revenue trends, expense breakdowns, and profit margins over time.

Tips for Shipping Cards in PWE with Tracking

Getting the label is only half the battle. Here are some best practices for actually shipping cards in PWEs:

• Always use a top loader or card saver — This protects the card during transit and keeps the envelope rigid enough for mail sorting machines.
• Use a team bag — Slip the top-loaded card into a team bag before putting it in the envelope. This adds moisture protection.
• Tape the top loader shut — A small piece of painter's tape across the top of the loader prevents the card from sliding out.
• Keep it flat — USPS letter rates require the shipment to be under 0.25" thick. Do not over-stuff your envelopes or add excessive padding.
• Use a rigid mailer for valuable cards — For cards over $20, consider a bubble mailer or rigid mailer for extra protection. You can still get tracked rates, just at a slightly higher weight class.
• Print labels clearly — Make sure your label is legible and the barcode is scannable. Smudged or faded labels can cause delivery issues.

Cost Breakdown: Tracked PWE vs. Other Shipping Methods (Rates at time of writting)

As you can see, tracked PWE labels through EasyPost offer the best value for TCGPlayer sellers. You get tracking at the same cost as an untracked stamp, while saving $2-3+ compared to Package rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you actually get tracking on a PWE?

Yes. Through EasyPost, you can generate USPS tracked letter labels at letter rates that include full tracking.

Will TCGPlayer accept PWE tracking numbers?

TCGPlayer does not accept USPS first class letter tracking numbers at this time. In TCGPlayer you will mark your order as shipped without providing a tracking number.

Is this the same as using stamps?

No. Regular stamped mail has no tracking. Tracked PWE labels are printed shipping labels with barcodes that USPS scans at each point in transit. You get similar tracking visibility as package shipping, but at letter rates.

How many cards can I fit in a tracked PWE?

Typically 1-20 cards in top loaders/card sleeves fit in a standard PWE while staying within letter thickness and weight limits. As long as the package meets the weight and rigid limits outlined by USPS it can ship.

Get Started Today

Tracked PWE labels through EasyPost are the most cost-effective way to ship trading cards on TCGPlayer while still providing tracking. And with TCG-ShipSync, you can automate the entire workflow — from CSV import to label generation — so you spend less time on logistics and more time on growing your business.