How to Package Collectibles for Safe Shipping – ShipSimple

Whether you're shipping a single graded card, a vintage comic, or a rare figurine worth thousands, how you package your collectible can make the difference between a safe delivery and a nightmare claim.

At ShipSimple, we specialize in protecting high-value items in transit — but even the best insurance can’t undo poor packaging. So here’s your go-to guide for packaging collectibles like a pro.

1. Start with the Right Box — Not Just Any Box

Avoid reusing worn or damaged boxes. Choose a new, double-walled corrugated cardboard box that’s slightly larger than your item + protective materials.

Pro Tip: For ultra-fragile or high-value items, consider double-boxing (more on that below).

2. Wrap Each Item with Care

Use bubble wrap — not newspaper or tissue — and wrap each item securely. For slabbed cards, graded comics, or coins, wrap in at least 2 inches of bubble wrap on all sides.

If the item is fragile or has movable parts, cushion those areas first with soft foam or microfoam.

3. Stabilize with Padding Material

The goal is to prevent any movement inside the box. Use packing peanuts, foam inserts, air pillows, or crumpled kraft paper to fill void space. Shake the box gently — if you hear or feel shifting, add more padding.

4. Consider the Double-Boxing Method

For collectibles over $1,000 in value or particularly fragile items, use the double-boxing technique:

Pack the item securely in a smaller box.
Place that box inside a larger outer box with at least 2 inches of padding (bubble wrap or foam) between the inner and outer boxes.

This technique significantly reduces shock and vibration during transit.

5. Label Clearly — But Don’t Overshare

Use a printed label with a barcode, affixed securely with clear packing tape. Avoid writing “valuable” or “collectible” on the outside — it can make the package a target. Instead, use discreet language or your business name only.

6. Seal It Like a Pro

Use high-quality packing tape — not masking or Scotch tape — and apply the H-taping method:

Tape along all open seams
Reinforce edges
Make sure flaps are flush and secure

7. Choose a Reliable Carrier — and Insure It

Not all shipping carriers are created equal when it comes to collectibles. Choose one that offers tracking, signature confirmation, and reliable delivery times.

And of course, insure the shipment properly. Standard carrier liability often excludes high-value items or caps reimbursement at a few hundred dollars. That’s where ShipSimple comes in — we offer coverage up to $250,000 for parcels and $500,000 for freight, with claims support built for collectors.

Final Checklist Before You Ship:

✅ Item is wrapped in bubble or soft foam
✅ No movement inside the box
✅ Outer box is undamaged, sturdy, and sealed
✅ Label is printed, clear, and securely attached
✅ Shipment is tracked and insured with high-value coverage

Bonus: How to Ship Graded Cards or Comics

Use rigid top loaders or slabs
Sandwich items between cardboard inserts for extra support
Avoid rubber bands (they damage edges) — use painter’s tape if needed
Always use a waterproof inner bag or sleeve

Bottom Line:

If it’s valuable enough to collect, it’s valuable enough to ship with care.
By following these packaging best practices, you’ll drastically reduce risk — and pair that with ShipSimple’s insurance, you’ve got complete peace of mind.

Need shipping insurance for your collectible?
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