The trading card market is one area that has seen recent tremendous expansion in the United States. With rare cards fetching millions of dollars and online marketplaces making it simpler than ever to purchase and sell cards, what was once a niche interest for a select few is now a flourishing industry. 

But, tremendous value carries considerable risk. Therefore it's critical for collectors to take the necessary precautions to safeguard their investments. When shipping a high value product, it's imperative to add insurance to protect against loss. This rings true for domestic and international shipping.

In this article, we'll go over risks and best practices when shipping trading cards to ensure your valuables are protected. We'll also discuss international shipping insurance and working with major shipping carriers.

The Risks of Shipping Your Trading Cards

Shipping trading cards carries a number of possible concerns, such as theft, damage, and loss. 

When sending high value trading cards, theft is a major concern. Especially if the cards are left unattended or delivered to an area where they are left out in the open. Packages can also be stolen while en route. Trading card shipments are a particularly enticing target for thieves since they are often labeled as expensive cargo. 

Along with theft, damage is another major concern for card owners. Trading cards that are appraised at a high price are often sold in pristine condition. Damage to these cards can cause their value to be diminished greatly. If the cards are improperly wrapped, the possibility of them bending, being crumpled, or otherwise damaged increases.

Loss is another risk that should not be disregarded. Particularly if they are transported internationally or through a convoluted network of carriers, packages can disappear during transit. The loss of a package containing priceless trading cards could cost the collector a large sum of money. 

The Importance of Getting Insurance for Your Cards

Considering the dangers involved with sending trading cards, it's critical to take precautions to safeguard your investment. The easiest and safest way to protect yourself and your investments is shipping insurance.

• Covering for Loss or Damage 

Shipping insurance may offer coverage if your trading cards are misplaced, harmed, or stolen while in transit. Knowing that your investment is safe, even if something unforeseen occurs during shipping, might take some stress off of your shoulders. 

• Protection Against Fraud

 In a few rare instances, packages may be sent to the incorrect address or to a recipient who is not authorized to receive them. Shipping insurance can offer fraud protection in these circumstances by ensuring that you are compensated for the value of your lost or stolen cards. 

• Cheap and Simple to Get 

The insurance cost is relatively cheap, especially in comparison to the high ticket items being shipped. The process to sign up for coverage is also exceptionally simple. While there are many companies that offer package insurance, we recommend a company that makes the claims process easy.

Although there are precautions you can take to reduce the dangers involved with shipping (some of which we will review in the next section), insurance offers an extra layer of security that can give you peace of mind and safeguard you against unforeseen events.

Best Practices for Shipping Your Trading Cards Safely

It can be stressful to ship trading cards, especially if they are expensive or uncommon. But, there are actions you can do to reduce the dangers involved and make sure your cards get to their destination safely. 

• Employ a Rigid Card Holder 

Preventing your trading cards from bending or creasing during transit is one of the most crucial measures you can take while shipping trading cards. Rigid card holders are available in a wide variety of styles, including top loaders, one-touch magnetic holders, and screw-down holders. 

• Use a tracking number

Ship your product through a shipping company that gives you a tracking number. This enables you to keep track of the shipment's development and guarantee that the intended recipient receives it. 

• Consider Include Signature Confirmation 

Including signature confirmation with your shipping might add an extra layer of protection by guaranteeing that only the designated receiver accepts your goods. 

It's important to keep in mind that taking the effort to carefully wrap your cards and employ safe shipping methods will help protect your investment and provide you peace of mind while they are being transported.

International Shipping

International shipping involves a complex process of transporting goods across borders and oceans. Customers can choose from a range of shipping options, including air, sea, and land transport. This causes another major concern when shipping items appraised at such high values.

This is when choosing a carrier with exceptional customer service is important. Major carriers recognize the importance of offering reliable and efficient services to meet the needs of their customers.

This is another reason insurance is so imperative. With so many rules and regulations in the postal service, having that extra layer of coverage is essential.

Conclusion 

The trading card industry has experienced unprecedented growth in recent years, and the future looks bright. Increased demand for rare and valuable cards, the expansion of the market to digital platforms, and the emergence of new technologies are all driving the growth of the industry.

However, with this growth comes new risks and challenges, particularly when it comes to shipping and protecting valuable cards. By following best practices such as using rigid card holders, sturdy shipping boxes, and shipping insurance, collectors can ensure their cards are protected during transit.