Shipping Guide
Learn how to package and ship trading cards safely. Proper shipping protects your cards and ensures happy buyers.
How to Package Cards
Protect the Card
Start with proper card protection:
Place raw cards in a penny sleeve, then a top loader
Graded cards (slabs) should be wrapped in bubble wrap
Never use rubber bands directly on cards
Use painter's tape to seal top loaders (not regular tape)
Secure in Mailer
Choose the right shipping container:
Use a bubble mailer for 1-3 cards
Use a small box for 4+ cards or high-value items
Wrap protected cards in additional bubble wrap
Fill empty space to prevent movement
✓ The card should not move when you shake the package.
Seal and Label
Finish preparing your shipment:
Seal all openings securely with packing tape
Print and attach shipping label clearly
Include 'DO NOT BEND' on the outside
Consider 'FRAGILE' sticker for high-value items
Recommended Supplies
Penny sleeves
First layer of protection for raw cardsTop loaders
Rigid protection for sleeved cardsTeam bags
Seal top loaders, protect graded cardsBubble mailers
Shipping container for 1-3 cardsSmall boxes
Shipping container for 4+ cardsBubble wrap
Extra padding, wrap graded cardsPainter's tape
Seal top loaders without residuePacking tape
Seal mailers and boxesShipping Options
| Carrier | Price | Time | Insurance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USPS First Class | $3-5 | 3-5 days | Up to $50 | Low-value cards, budget shipping |
| USPS Priority Mail | $8-12 | 1-3 days | Up to $100 | Mid-value cards, faster delivery |
| USPS Priority Express | $25-40 | 1-2 days | Up to $100 | High-value, time-sensitive |
| UPS Ground | $10-15 | 3-5 days | Varies | Bulk shipments, heavier packages |
| FedEx | $12-20 | 2-5 days | Varies | Business accounts, reliability |
Insurance & Protection
💰 Insure High-Value Items
Always add insurance for cards worth $50+. The small cost protects against loss or damage.
📸 Document Everything
Take photos of the card and packaging before shipping. This helps with insurance claims.
✍️ Require Signature
For items over $100, require signature confirmation to prevent delivery disputes.
📦 Declare Full Value
When purchasing insurance, declare the full market value of the card.
Important
Important: SuperCatch is not responsible for items lost or damaged in transit. Always use tracking and appropriate insurance for valuable cards.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using regular envelopes
Why it's bad: Cards can bend, get damaged by sorting machines
✓ Instead: Always use rigid mailers or boxes
❌ Tape on card surface
Why it's bad: Damages the card when removed
✓ Instead: Use painter's tape on top loaders only
❌ No tracking
Why it's bad: Can't prove delivery, no recourse if lost
✓ Instead: Always ship with tracking
❌ Underinsuring
Why it's bad: Won't recover full value if lost
✓ Instead: Insure for actual market value
❌ Loose cards in mailer
Why it's bad: Cards shift and get damaged
✓ Instead: Secure cards so they can't move