How to Ship Graded Cards Safely: The Professional Method

Every dealer eventually develops their own packing ritual. Here's the one that's survived a decade of shipping six-figure inventory.

The Method

1. Snug a team bag around the slab. The bag prevents the slab from rubbing the cardboard. 2. Sandwich the slab between two pieces of corrugated cardboard cut 1" larger than the slab on every side. Tape the sandwich shut. 3. Wrap in bubble wrap — two full revolutions, taped. 4. Place in a small box with at least 2" of packing peanut or air pillow on every side. 5. Place that box in a larger box with another 1" buffer of packing material. Double-boxing is non-negotiable for anything over $500. 6. Insure for full replacement value and require signature on delivery.

What Most People Get Wrong

Bubble mailers for slabs. Slabs crack in bubble mailers. Always use a rigid box. Skipping the team bag. The bag prevents cardboard fibers from migrating into the slab seam. Using a single box. USPS and UPS sort by throwing. Double-box always. Under-insuring. Insurance is cheap; replacement is not.

Carrier Choice

USPS Priority Mail Express with signature confirmation is the dealer standard for U.S. domestic. UPS and FedEx are fine but rarely cheaper for sub-2-lb packages.

For grails ($5k+), use USPS Registered Mail. It's slow but it's the only mail service that's tracked at every facility transfer and locked in a safe at every stop.