Shipping small packages can be deceptively challenging, especially when they contain pricey collectibles. Common items like trading cards, action figures, vinyl records, coins, and comic books can be a combination of fragile, rare, or valuable. Whether you sell from a personal collection or run a small business, here’s how to take extra care with packaging, paperwork, and protective measures so your items arrive safely.
Packaging Matters
Collectibles can lose value from even minor damage, so make sure you follow protective packaging and shipping guidelines. A bent comic book corner, scuffed baseball card, or a scratched coin can turn an excited collector into an unhappy customer. Use the tips below to learn how to ship valuables safely.
Best Practices for Packaging Common Collectibles
Trading Cards
- Sleeves & Toploaders: Place individual cards in soft sleeves (“penny sleeves”), then insert them into rigid or semi-rigid sleeves (“toploaders”) for structure.
- Bubble Wrap & Boxes: For a larger lot, wrap the sleeved cards in bubble wrap and ship in a small, sturdy box. For individual cards or small lots, wrap cards in bubble wrap, place between two rigid pieces of cardboard, and ship in a padded envelope labeled “Do Not Bend.”
Coins
- Individual Holders or Capsules: Use coin flips (protective cardboard pockets) or capsules (rigid plastic protective discs) to prevent scratching and oxidation.
- Cushioning: Pack securely with bubble wrap in a sturdy box.
- Temperature Sensitivity: Be mindful of temperature-sensitive finishes. Label packages containing coins “Temperature Sensitive: 65-75º.” While climate-controlled transport may not always be possible, the label will at least increase awareness.
Action Figures
- Original Packaging Protection: If shipping figures in their original boxes (especially unopened), use corner protectors, wrap in bubble wrap, and place in a snug-fitting outer box.
- Unboxed Figures: Wrap individual items in bubble wrap and use dividers to prevent movement during transit. Label “Fragile.”
Comic Books
- Bags and Boards: Place comic books in acid-free protective bags with backing boards.
- Gemini Mailers or Boxes: Use mailers specifically designed for comics (gemini mailers) or sandwich each comic between cardboard and bubble wrap before placing it in a rigid envelope or sturdy box.
- Label Clearly: Add "Fragile" and “Do Not Bend” labels for extra precaution.
Vinyl Records
- LP Mailers: We recommend using mailers specifically designed for shipping vinyl records. Be sure to use the correct size so the record fits snugly.
- Separate Inner and Outer Sleeves: Remove the record from the outer (cardboard) sleeve. If it’s not already in an inner (paper) sleeve, insert it into one. Then slide the paper-sleeved record and the outer jacket into a protective bag before placing it in the mailer.
- Additional Protection: Label mailer “Fragile” and “Do Not Bend.” For added protection, wrap LP mailer in bubble wrap and place snuggly inside a larger box labeled “Fragile.”
Tracking, Declared Value, and Insurance
Collectibles are often hard to replace, so record the tracking number for every shipment. With MyDHL+, you and your customers will have real-time tracking.
Always provide an accurate declared value for each shipment. This supports liability coverage and helps you comply with regulations and customs for international shipping.
For higher-value collectibles, add shipping insurance through DHL Express for extra protection.
International Shipping
The experts at DHL Express Shipping are an invaluable resource, especially if you plan to ship collectibles internationally. Shipping collectibles across borders requires an understanding of customs regulations and restrictions, and we’re here to help navigate. Some countries have very specific rules for importing cultural items, precious metals, or any goods of high value.
- Shipping Coins: Certain countries prohibit or restrict importing precious metal coins, especially if they're considered legal tender or antiques.
- Shipping Trading Cards & Comics: Depending on content, some comics or trading cards may be restricted for cultural, political, or adult content reasons.
- Valuation & Duties: Items may be subject to import duties or taxes based on declared value. Always provide accurate descriptions and invoices. Find tips for navigating customs clearance here.
- Documentation: Include a detailed customs declaration. Shippers can insert statements such as “Collectible trading card – no commercial value” or “Used comic book for personal collection” onto the Commercial or Proforma Invoice to seek preferential duty and/or tax consideration during the import process, but the listed value should be the selling price (or the cost to replace/fair market value, if the goods are not being sold).
Before shipping, check the DHL country-specific shipping guidelines or consult with a DHL representative to ensure your shipment complies with the destination country’s import laws.
Trust DHL with Your Treasures
Collaborating with DHL Express for collectibles transport means fast, reliable delivery with support every step of the way. Whether you need to know how to ship a valuable trading card, whether there are restrictions on what you’re shipping, or you need to know how to complete customs documentation, our experts are here to help!
At DHL, we understand the value behind every collectible. Our global logistics network and expertise in safe handling help ensure your items arrive securely and on time, across the country or around the world.
Ready to get started? Locate the closest DHL store or create your shipment online!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I ship trading cards safely?
Protect trading cards with penny sleeves and semi-rigid holders or top loaders. Place the card between two pieces of rigid cardboard, then mail it in a padded envelope or small box clearly marked “Do Not Bend.”
2. Can I ship coins internationally with DHL Express Shipping?
Yes. Coins can be shipped internationally, but check the destination country’s import rules before sending. Pack each coin in a protective holder and secure it inside a padded box to prevent movement.
3. What is the safest way to ship comic books?
Place each comic book in a protective sleeve with a backing board, then sandwich it between rigid cardboard. Ship it in a flat mailer or padded envelope labeled “Do Not Bend.”
4. Does DHL Express offer insurance for collectibles?
Yes. DHL Express Shipping offers optional insurance for high-value items. Adding insurance provides extra protection in case of damage or loss during transit.
5. How do I avoid damage when shipping vinyl records?
Use an LP mailer and make sure that the record is placed inside a paper sleeve, inside of the record jacket. Place the jacket in a protective bag before inserting everything in the LP mailer.Use an LP mailer and make sure that the record is placed inside a paper sleeve, inside of the record jacket. Place the jacket in a protective bag before inserting everything in the LP mailer.
Label the mailer “Fragile” and “Do Not Bend.” For extra protection, wrap LP mailer in bubble wrap and place snuggly inside a larger box labeled “Fragile.”
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