Measure the card first
Card thickness is measured in points (pt). Standard cards fit a 35pt toploader (about 20–35pt). Retailers of Ultra PRO toploaders list 55pt holders for about 36–55pt cards, 75pt for 56–75pt and 100pt for 76–100pt, with thicker holders beyond that. If the pack or checklist doesn't say, compare the card against a standard card: a relic that feels like two or three cards stacked needs a thicker holder.
Patch and relic cards
Sleeve that fits the thickness, so it slides in without force.
A toploader rated for the card, or a magnetic one-touch holder for high-value cards.
Bubble mailer with tracking. Thick holders make envelopes rigid and lumpy, which invites the USPS nonmachinable surcharge and damage.
On-card and sticker autographs
- Never let tape or a sticky surface touch the card or the signature; tape the sleeve or team bag only.
- Keep signed cards out of heat and direct sun, which can fade ink.
- Photograph the signature and the card front and back before you ship, in case of a dispute.
Value, tracking and insurance
These cards are usually worth tracking even when cheap ones aren't. Add insurance for anything you couldn't refund, and signature confirmation for the expensive ones. If the card is graded, follow our slab guide.
Printing the addresses
Handwriting addresses is the slow part once you ship more than a few a day. TCG Speed Shipper prints #10 envelopes, Avery 5160 address labels and 4×6 labels from a TCGplayer shipping export. If you sell on eBay or Whatnot, every plan has Paste Address: copy the buyer addresses out of eBay, Whatnot, PayPal or an email and print labels from those. These are address labels, not postage.
FAQ
How do I know what size toploader a patch card needs?
Check the card thickness in points. 35pt holders fit about 20–35pt cards; 55pt, 75pt and 100pt holders fit progressively thicker relic and patch cards.
Can I tape a toploader with an autographed card inside?
Tape the outside of the team bag or the top of the toploader only, never anything that touches the card or the signature.
Should patch cards go in a plain envelope?
Usually not. Thick holders make the envelope rigid, which can add a USPS surcharge and risks damage. Use a tracked bubble mailer.
Sources
- Toploader thickness ranges (35pt holds 20–35pt cards, 55pt holds 36–55pt, 75pt holds 56–75pt, 100pt holds 76–100pt) as listed by retailers of Ultra PRO toploaders, e.g. Cardboard Connection and Giant Sports Cards, checked October 24, 2026.
- Our stamp guide (USPS letter prices per Notice 123, October 4, 2026 edition: $0.82 for the first ounce, $0.29 each added ounce, $0.49 nonmachinable surcharge).