A top loader is a plastic "holder" for sports cards. It protects the card from being damaged. They are not expensive and you usually can buy a package of them for around $2.50-$3.00. If there is a sports hobby store near you, you maybe able to purchase just 1 top loader for 10-25 cents. Also, on the envelope, if you write "non-machineable" or "please Do Not Bend", that will help in protecting the card...they do charge you an extra 20 cents though (if you are using the USPS to deliver it). nice card. Watching.