Shipping Policy

A few minutes of prep makes a big difference:

• Remove cards from binders and binder pages. We process loose cards only — please don't send binders, pages, or storage boxes.
• Don't use rubber bands. They indent and damage card edges over time.
• Sleeve cards if possible. Penny or soft sleeves provide basic protection during transit. If you don't have any, just make sure they're well-padded.
• Sort by type if you like. Not required, but separating Pokémon from Sports/Other can speed up processing.
• Photograph your cards before packing. A quick photo of the collection protects you in case of a shipping dispute or damage claim.

The right box makes a big difference:

• Use a rigid cardboard box — never a padded envelope for large quantities. Cards bend under pressure in soft mailers.
• Small lots (under 200 cards): a small flat-rate Priority Mail box or a 6×6×4" box.
• Medium lots (200–1,000 cards): a 9×6×4" or 12×6×4" box gives enough room for proper padding.
• Large lots (1,000+ cards): a medium/large flat-rate box, or a standard 12×12×8" box. Don't overpack — the box should close without bowing.
• Avoid reusing damaged boxes. Crushed corners and weak seams are the leading cause of damage in transit.

• Bundle cards in groups of 50–100 with a folded piece of cardboard or a toploader as a stiffener on each side.
• Wrap each bundle in bubble wrap or surround with packing paper. Cards should not shift inside the package.
• Fill all empty space with packing paper, bubble wrap, or foam. Shake the box — if you hear movement, add more padding.
• Place a packing slip inside with your name, email, and order reference number so we can match your shipment when it arrives.
• Seal the box with quality packing tape on all seams. Avoid masking or scotch tape — they don't hold under shipping stress.
• Mark the box "Fragile" on at least two sides.

We accept shipments from all major carriers. For collections valued over $1,000 we strongly recommend UPS or FedEx — they offer higher declared-value coverage and easier claims than USPS.

• USPS Priority Mail — best value for small–medium lots. $100 insurance included, 1–3 day delivery.
• UPS — excellent tracking, easy declared-value insurance, reliable for larger boxes.
• FedEx — great for high-value shipments, strong insurance options, reliable overnight if needed.

Buying a label online is usually cheaper than in-store. Drop the package at any carrier location:

• USPS: create a shipment at usps.com — select Priority Mail, enter declared value for insurance, print at home.
• UPS: ship at ups.com — create a shipment, add declared value, print or use the UPS app to show a QR code at the counter.
• FedEx: ship at fedex.com — same process; print or drop off with a QR code.
• Pro tip: when you buy a label online, your tracking number is generated immediately. Paste it into the Tracking Number field on your Gradient order form so we can confirm receipt the moment the carrier scans your box.

Once your label is printed and your box is sealed:

• Drop it off at any location for your chosen carrier.
• Ask for a receipt — this confirms the package was accepted and is your proof of shipment.
• Keep your tracking number safe until you receive confirmation from us that your cards have arrived.