This is a brief update on the new Ebay Envelope service. That service, started in March, allows sellers to print ordinary first class letter postage with tracking for as little as 51 cents (for a 1-ounce letter). It is not intended for packages, padded envelopes, or anything similar - just ordinary envelopes. It was originally offered to sellers selling sports cards, but has been extended to other areas (including at least some numismatic categories).

I used the service twice in the pasty week or so. Tracking does not have a bar code, but relies on a private contractor who apparently monitors the post office's systems. There is no tracking indication when the envelope is first received by the post office, but every step after - including delivery to the customer - is indicated.

Both my letters were timely delivered.

The service is already worthwhile for the discount it includes from regular retail postage (a stamp costs 55 cents). I am hopeful this new system keeps me from getting dinged by Ebay for not downloading (non-existent) tracking information as in the past when I used stamped envelopes.

Other readers on this board have pointed out glitches that have occurred in this new system, such as one buyer getting hit with postage due. I do not know whether that sender broke the rules of the program (for example, by using a padded envelope), but I remember when we first started using padded envelopes with first class package mail there were numerous times that my mailings were tagged for priority mail postage because tracking on first class mail was a new concept.

I have not experienced a horror story yet, so I plan to continue using this service while observing its strict rules.