Ryan Barone is a recognized sports card expert and lifetime collector. With nearly 20,000 TikTok followers and close to 2,000 SubStack subscribers, Ryan loves talking cards, dishing tips, and building hobby communities. [email protected]; Last Time Ago LLC dba Ballcard Genius.
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When starting out in card collecting, one of the most difficult things is learning the lingo, and understanding the definitions of the terms your fellow collectors are using on a regular basis. In today’s glossary entry, we are looking at the shipping acronyms of BMWT and PWE, and the best way to ship sports cards.
What Does BMWT Mean in Card Collecting?
BMWT stands for Bubble Mailer With Tracking. It’s a secure shipping method that includes:
- A bubble mailer (padded envelope)
- Tracking number via USPS or another carrier
Example: If a seller says “$20 BMWT,” that means the card costs $20 including shipping with tracking.
Why Specify BMWT?
Because not all shipping methods are created equal. If a seller just says “$20 shipped,” it’s unclear how the card will be mailed. BMWT guarantees a padded mailer and tracking, which is important for higher-value cards or if you don’t fully trust the sender.
What is PWE in Card Collecting?
PWE stands for Plain White Envelope, and it’s a low-cost shipping method. No padding. No tracking. Typically used for:
- Lower-value cards
- Low-risk trades or sales
- Cards that are less likely to be damaged in transit
Some cards are just more susceptible to damage—think thick and chunky patches, or the beautiful gold border frames of 2020 Topps Gold Label. There are just certain cards you wouldn’t want to risk sending (or having sent to you).
Read More: Can You Use an Amazon Box to Ship USPS?
Bonus: When it comes to cards and shipping, you might also see or want to use the term “DLVD” which is shorthand for “delivered.” This means that the quoted price is the total price of the card including shipping. For example, if you’re selling a card for $20 DLVD, that means a buyer will pay you $20 for the card total, and not $20 plus shipping.
Comparison: BMWT vs. PWE
| Feature | BMWT (Bubble Mailer With Tracking) | PWE (Plain White Envelope) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost to Buyer | Higher ($4–$6 typical) | Lower (under $1 usually) |
| Includes Tracking | Yes | No (Unless eBay Standard Envelope) |
| Protection Level | Padded, better protection | Minimal, higher risk of damage |
| Best For | Higher-value cards ($10–$20+) | Low-value base cards |
| Risk of Loss or Damage | Low | High |
| Typical Materials Used | Bubble mailer, cardboard, toploader | Paper envelope, penny sleeve |
What About eBay Card Shipping?
The eBay Standard Envelope is a hybrid—it’s technically a PWE method but with added tracking for cards valued under $20. It’s affordable and safer than a regular plain envelope, especially when used with rigid photo mailers
Now, I’m deathly afraid of using PWE, but have found a happy medium, utilizing photo envelopes to send via the eBay Standard Envelope method. There are different restrictions and guidelines, so take special care either way.
Which is Better?
As pointed out, both options serve a purpose depending on what you’re collecting, and who you’re buying from.
You should consider using BMWT for any purchase or trade involving a card of significant value. That number is going to differ from person to person, with some thinking nothing over $5 should be sent PWE, while others have a $20 threshold.
Why? Because things happen. A bubble mailer offers added card protection, and is also big enough for the sender to add even more protection like sandwiching the card between two pieces of cardboard when shipping graded cards or raw.
And that’s just considering what’s in your control. Things happen in the mail too; things get lost, or don’t get scanned. With BMWT, you’ll have tracking to allow you to follow the card’s journey from sender to your mailbox.
Which brings up the last point—how trustworthy is the person sending your card? If there is any question, or if you haven’t dealt with them before and can’t verify their reputation, a BMWT will at least prove something was put in the mail.
All of that said, if your’e selling a $5 card (or trying to), you’re going to have much better luck charging the prospective buyer around $1 for shipping rather than $4-$5.
So, hope that helps! What other collecting questions do you have?
What does BMWT stand for in card collecting?
BMWT stands for Bubble Mailer With Tracking. It means the card will be shipped in a padded envelope with a tracking number, usually through USPS.
Why do sellers prefer BMWT?
BMWT offers better protection for the card and includes tracking, reducing the risk of loss or damage. It’s especially important for higher-value cards or when selling to buyers you don’t know.
How much does BMWT shipping usually cost?
Typically, BMWT shipping costs between $4–$6, depending on location, materials used, and postage rates.
What supplies do I need for BMWT shipping?
To ship BMWT, you’ll usually need:
-A bubble mailer
-Toploader or card saver
-Team bag or penny sleeve
-Cardboard for extra protection (optional but recommended)
-Tape (painters tape preferred)
-Tracking label via USPS or similar
Can I use BMWT for multiple cards?
Yes, but be mindful of weight and thickness. Grouping multiple cards in a team bag, placing them between cardboard, and using a larger bubble mailer is common practice.
Does BMWT guarantee delivery?
Not 100%, but the included tracking significantly improves visibility and accountability. You can see when the card is scanned, in transit, and delivered.
