How to Ship Pokémon Cards Safely for Grading

Royal Mail handles millions of parcels a day. Your small package containing cards worth hundreds of pounds is just another item on the belt. If you don't package properly, the sorting machines and handling processes will show no mercy.

Step 1: Sleeve and Holder

Every card goes into a fresh penny sleeve, then into a Card Saver 1 or top loader. This should be done before you even think about packaging. One card per sleeve, one card per holder. No exceptions.

Step 2: Bundle Your Holders

If you're sending multiple cards, stack your card savers together and wrap them as a single bundle. Use a rubber band or painter's tape to keep them together as a unit. Don't let individual card savers float loose inside your package.

Put a piece of cardboard on each side of the bundle for extra rigidity. Cut the cardboard slightly larger than the card savers so the edges don't poke through the bubble wrap.

Step 3: Wrap in Bubble Wrap

One to two layers of small-bubble bubble wrap around the entire bundle. Tape it shut. The bubble wrap serves two purposes: impact protection and preventing the cards from sliding around inside the package.

Step 4: Choose Your Mailer

Use either a rigid cardboard mailer (the kind used for photos) or a small box. A padded envelope on its own is not rigid enough. If you use a padded envelope, put the bubble-wrapped bundle inside a folded piece of cardboard first to create rigidity.

Fill any empty space with crumpled paper or packing peanuts. Shake the package gently. If you can feel things moving, add more packing material.

Step 5: Include Your Submission Paperwork

Print out your submission form or packing slip and include it inside the package. Put it in a small plastic bag or sleeve so it doesn't get damaged in transit. Your submission number needs to be clearly visible.

Step 6: Post It Properly

Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed is the standard choice. It's tracked, signed for, and includes compensation cover. The base cover is £500, which is usually sufficient. For higher-value submissions you can buy additional cover.

Keep your tracking number and receipt. Monitor delivery. Most grading companies will confirm receipt within a day or two of delivery.

What Not to Do

Don't use first or second class post. No tracking means no recourse if the package goes missing. Don't use a paper envelope. Don't write "VALUABLE CARDS INSIDE" on the package. Don't tape card savers shut with sticky tape that covers the card viewing window.