All cards are packaged in penny sleeve, top loader, will be between 2 pieces of card board, then put into a cardboard mailer. The shipping is what it cost to ship it cost me more for the cardboard and mailer. But want to ensure card arrives safely. I have got cards in a plain envelope and they were damaged. I want to make sure you receive your card in best shape I can. So it does cost just a bit more for shipping but better packaged. Thank you for you business