USPS First-Class Mail Letter Shipping for Buyers

What is USPS First-Class Mail Letter Shipping for buyers?

USPS First-Class Mail Letter shipping is a cost-effective shipping option offered for US-based buyers purchasing TCG, Sports Cards, and stickers. This shipping method can help reduce the cost of shipping.

First-Class Mail Letter (FCML) shipping is available in the US for the TCG, Sports Cards, and the stickers categories. Once a seller enables FCML in these categories, your purchases will automatically be sent using this service.

Important things to know:

• Seller's must select this shipping service in order for your purchases to be sent with FCML
• Items eligible for FCML are send in standard paper envelope or flat paper mailer. Bubble mailers, cardboard packages, poly mailers, or any packaging made of plastic material will not be accepted.
• Only items in the following categories are eligible for FCML:
  • Trading Card Games
  • Sports Cards
  • Stickers
  • The total shipment weight is 3 ounces or less and has a total value of $20 or less.
  • The shipment is domestic (shipping from a US address to another US address).
  • There are no more than 5 individual cards in the shipment.
• If your package weight exceeds 3 ounces, the value exceeds $20 or there are more than 5 cards in the shipment, you shipping will change to Priority Mail or Ground Advantage shipping.

FAQs

Once shipped, how long will it take for my First-Class Mail Letter shipment to arrive?

First-Class Mail Letters spend 5-14 days in transit before arriving.

What tracking capabilities are available for First-Class Mail Letters shipped through Whatnot

You can track your First-Class Mailing Letter directly through Whatnot (tracking information will not be available on the USPS site). Limited tracking will appear as usual on your Order Status page. 

Note: Limited tracking for First-Class Mailing Letters is only available directly on Whatnot. You will not find tracking information on the USPS website.

What does “limited tracking” mean?

First-class envelopes offer limited tracking, meaning tracking typically includes up to 3 status updates. In some cases, envelopes are not tracked. This can happen if the barcode is smudged, torn, or otherwise damaged during handling or processing.

Why does tracking for First-Class Mail Letter shipping take more time?

The exact time it takes for First-Class Mail to start tracking can vary depending on the volume of mail being processed, the location of the origin and destination facilities, and other factors. In general, you can expect to see tracking information for your envelope within 24-72 hours after it has been shipped.

What happens if my package becomes ineligible to send via FCML?

In some cases, the shipment can be upgraded to Priority Mail or Ground Advantage shipping. This usually happens when the value of the item is high and needs to be shipped via tracked mail. Please note, this may result in an increase of shipping cost to reflect the new shipping service. Please see this article for more information on shipping cost.

Will Whatnot ever offer First-Class Mail Letter shipping for orders outside of TCG or Sports Cards?

At this time, First-Class Mail Letter shipping is only available for card items sold in the TCG, Sports and Stickers categories on Whatnot.