USPS First-Class Mail Letter (FCML), sometimes called Plain White Envelope (PWE) shipping, is a lower-cost way to ship small, lightweight items like trading cards or stickers.
Since buyers typically pay shipping on Whatnot, FCML helps keep costs down when your order qualifies. If it does, it'll automatically ship this way.
In this article:
- What to expect with FCML
- Which orders ship with FCML?
- How much does FCML shipping cost?
- Need more help?
What to expect with FCML
FCML travels through USPS letter mail instead of as a package, so tracking can look different from other shipments.
In Whatnot, you might notice:
Tracking updates are limited or USPS.com doesn’t show details at all
The order details page says “First-Class Mail Letter tracking unavailable”
Limited or unavailable tracking is expected for FCML shipments and doesn’t automatically mean there’s a problem.
You’ll still see your order status and delivery confirmation in Whatnot.
FCML shipments typically arrive within 5–14 business days after shipment.
Which orders ship with FCML?
Orders ship with FCML when they meet all of the following:
The item is in Trading Card Games, Sports Cards, or Stickers categories
The seller enabled FCML during a live show
The shipment is domestic within the U.S.
Total weight is 3 oz or less
Total value is $20 or less
5 cards or fewer are included
If an order exceeds these limits, it automatically upgrades to a fully tracked shipping service such as USPS Ground Advantage or Priority Mail. If this happens, you’ll pay the upgraded shipping cost, and see the final shipping price before checkout.
How much does FCML shipping cost?
FCML label prices currently range from $0.74 to $1.32, depending on weight and current USPS rates, plus a small Whatnot service fee.
You’ll always see the exact shipping cost at checkout before you complete your purchase.
Need more help?
- Learn how to check your order status
- Get help with a delayed or missing order
- If you're a seller, visit our FCML shipping guide for sellers