Shipping Collectibles for Grading: What to Know About Insurance in Transit
For collectors sending valuable items to grading companies such as PSA, CGC, or SGC, one concern tends to overshadow the excitement: transit risk. Whether it’s a high-grade trading card, a rare comic, or another prized collectible, the journey from your hands to the grading facility can be nerve-racking.
The Limits of Declared Value Coverage
Many collectors rely on carrier-provided “declared value” coverage when shipping through major delivery services. At first glance, it appears to offer a simple solution—pay an additional fee and the package is protected.
However, the reality can be more complicated. Declared value protection often comes with extensive exclusions and strict conditions. According to a 2022 Better Business Bureau report, more than 30% of claims involving declared value coverage were either denied or paid out at reduced amounts. For high-value collectibles, that gap can be significant.
Traditional Insurers and In-Transit Gaps
Some collectors turn to specialty insurers such as Jewelers Mutual or Chubb for broader protection. While these providers offer valuable coverage for collectibles, in-transit terms can sometimes lack the clarity collectors want—particularly when items are temporarily outside the home and moving between locations.
For assets whose value may depend on grading outcomes, transparency in coverage terms becomes especially important.
A Shift Toward Collector-Focused Transit Coverage
In response to these concerns, newer insurance platforms have begun designing policies specifically for high-value collectibles in motion. Rather than relying solely on carrier-based declared value options, these solutions aim to provide clearer in-transit protection tailored to the grading process.
WAX Collect is one example of a platform positioning itself within this niche, offering coverage structured around the realities of shipping collectibles for authentication and grading.
Best Practices for Shipping to Grading Companies
Regardless of insurance choice, careful preparation remains essential. Experts recommend several key steps:
1. Thorough Documentation
Photograph the item in high resolution and record detailed condition notes before packaging. This creates a clear pre-shipment record.
2. Protective Packaging
Use rigid holders where appropriate, ample cushioning, and double-boxing methods to minimize movement during transit.
3. Confirm Insurance Terms
Ensure the policy explicitly covers in-transit risk to grading facilities and back. Understand valuation methods and claim procedures before shipping.
4. Monitor Tracking Closely
Real-time shipment tracking provides added oversight and allows quick action if delays or irregularities arise.
Why Transit Protection Matters
The graded collectibles market continues to expand. According to Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), the market for graded trading cards is projected to grow at an annual rate exceeding 15% through 2025. As values rise, so does the financial exposure tied to shipping.
For collectors, insurance during transit is not merely a precaution—it’s part of an overall risk management strategy. A properly structured policy can safeguard against loss, theft, or damage during one of the most vulnerable stages in a collectible’s lifecycle.
Final Thoughts
Sending collectibles to grading companies will likely always involve some level of anxiety. But with proper documentation, secure packaging, and clearly defined insurance coverage, that risk can be significantly reduced.
As the collectibles market matures, insurance solutions are evolving alongside it—offering more specialized, transit-focused protection designed to match the pace and value of modern collecting.
