How to ship high-value cards safely (Canada/US)
When the cards are valuable, “good enough” packaging isn’t good enough. Your job is to prevent movement, prevent bending, and create a paper trail that makes loss/damage claims straightforward if something goes wrong.
The safety checklist (do this every time)
- Rigid protection per card: sleeve + semi-rigid/toploader.
- No movement: fill voids so nothing rattles.
- Double boxing (recommended): inner box inside a second box for impact protection.
- Tracking + signature: reduce porch loss and delivery disputes.
- Insurance that actually applies: understand exclusions and proof requirements.
- Document everything: photos of the cards and the packed box before drop-off.
Packaging method (high-value)
- Protect each card: penny sleeve → semi-rigid/toploader → painter’s tape across the opening.
- Create a rigid “brick”: stack protected cards (small stacks), wrap in bubble wrap, and tape the bubble wrap so it can’t unwind.
- Inner box: choose a snug box. Add cushioning on all sides. The brick should not be able to move when you shake the box gently.
- Outer box: put the inner box inside a larger outer box with cushioning around it. This dramatically reduces impact damage.
- Seal properly: use strong packing tape. Tape seams in an “H” pattern (center seam + both edge seams).
Tracking, signature, and delivery options
Tracking is non-negotiable. For higher-value shipments, add signature confirmation to reduce “delivered but not received” outcomes. If your carrier offers hold-at-depot/hold-for-pickup, that can be even safer than porch delivery.
If you’re shipping from Canada to the US (or vice versa), expect longer transit times and additional handling. That’s another reason to use a box (or double box) rather than anything flexible.
What to photograph (helps if there’s a claim)
- Front/back of each card (or a representative selection for bulk).
- Close-ups of any existing damage.
- A photo of the packed inner box (open and closed).
- Photo of the sealed outer box.
- Photo of the shipping label (readable tracking number).
- Drop-off receipt or acceptance scan confirmation.
A quick note on insurance
Insurance rules vary by carrier and service level. Some exclude collectibles unless you use a specific product or declared value method. If you’re shipping something truly high-end, it may be worth using a specialty insurer or a service designed for valuables. The most important part: keep documentation and ship in a way that clearly meets the carrier’s packaging requirements.