Is it possible to use standard envelope for small game cartridges?

[leareamc]

Don't roast me for asking, but just wanted to confirm whether or not there is a path for shipping small DS and Switch cartridges. I saw a video a short time ago where a person was saying there was an allowable path to do this, but I doubt it was actually allowable.

[robbie31415]

Hello,

Unfortunately, that shipping service is very selective, and the item you wish to send via it isn't eligible. 

https://www.ebay.com/sellercenter/shipping/choosing-a-carrier-and-service/ebay-standard-envelope

"

• Patches
• Stickers & Decals
• Greeting Cards
• Seeds
• Trading Cards
• Coins & Currency
• Postcards
• Stamps"

[nobody*s_perfect]

The eBay "Standard" envelope has to be flexible and not over 1/4 inch thick.

[countrickter]

I bought some small bubble mailers for pens and used it for selling ds and nintendo switch games. sending them in a ebay standard envelope will be an issue. The rigid plastic edges of the cartridges coupled with handling and transfer could rip or tear the paper. Not all buyers will be happy with that choice. I was attempting to find a cheaper way to ship them also since they weight under 1oz. with this one I would go for reliable ship and something that would make the customer happy and pleased when they receive the cartridge. Think about when you purchase video games. and someone sent you one in an envelope and how you would feel about it.

[1786davycrockett]

@leareamc 

As @robbie31415  has pointed out, the items which you wish to ship are not allowed for the eBay Standard Envelope.

You may try shipping these individual items using a USPS "non-machinable" stamp, which you can purchase over the counter at your post office (not available through eBay).  The cost is $1.19, but there is no tracking.

But read up on the restrictions for using the "non-machinable" stamp, as follows -

"No, you can't use non-machinable stamps on regular envelopes. The United States Postal Service (USPS) considers letters to be non-machineable if they don't fit the standard flat rectangular shape. This includes envelopes that are too large, too thick, too heavy, or too rigid. For example, square envelopes under 6 1/8 in x 6 1/8 in are considered non-machinable. Other examples include envelopes with clasps, buttons, or other non-paper closures, or envelopes with contents that can be damaged by postal machines, such as books or CDs."

[ryry-jj]

Bubble mailer is the way to go, and no smaller than 6 x 9, a size that cant slip into someone's pocket....just my thought

[adashel-7]

Hello.  Any idea what would be the cheapest way to ship say a loose Nintendo DS game cartridge or a GBA game cartridge? Of course with tracking. Can I use eBay standard envelope? I'm confused.  The cartridge is tiny and weighs around an 1oz or so. Shipping the cartridge Ground Advantage would be ridiculous.  Please help.

[tobaccocardyahoo]

@leareamc 

ESE is Letter Mail. It must be flexible enough to make it through the automated sorting equipment. In USPS terms it must be machineable.

It is jams the sorter or a USPS employee believes it might jam the sorter it is non-machinable and additional postage is required.

If it jams the sorter it may be damaged or lost. The contents may be damaged if they will not tolerate the bending which comes from the sorting process.

If the item is worthless, the experimenting with ESE might be ok, but do not expect Ebay to pay out any insurance if the items is not in the proper category.

My advice to you is to forget about using ESE. It is unreliable for many sellers of items for which it is permitted.

[bonanza125]

@adashel-7 

Create your own thread next time instead of bumping old threads. Use a bubble mailer and go "Advantage Ground." Print your label through Ebay to save. A Nintendo DS game cartridge/GBA cartridge is considered a package. So no you can't use a standard envelope. No tracking on that and it will get returned.

[simba6]

Not without damage in postal machines.   It can be bent 180 degrees around a one inch diameter roller in the process.  It would be broken or torn out of the envelope.