I boxed up ten raw cards worth about $20,000 and shipped them to PSA for grading using FedEx Overnight. The tracking updated to “On vehicle for delivery,” then stalled… forever. I filed a claim for the $20,000. FedEx responded that their liability for “Collectibles” is limited to $1,000, regardless of what value I declared on the label.
Key Takeaways
- Declared Value ≠ Insurance: FedEx and UPS “Declared Value” raises their liability limit, but they have specific exclusions for “extraordinary value items” like trading cards, often capping payouts at $1,000.
- The “Raw” Valuation Problem: Since the cards weren’t graded yet, the carrier will argue they were “Near Mint” at best, or “Damaged” at worst. Proving the value of raw cards is a nightmare.
- Third-Party Shipping Insurance: You must use a third-party insurer (like Shipsurance or through a dealer account) to get full coverage for high-value raw cards.
- Dealer Submissions: Sending cards through a bulk submitter often includes better insurance than shipping yourself.
The “Why” (Carrier Tariffs)
“Maximum liability for articles of extraordinary value is limited to $1,000.”
You signed this waiver when you printed the label. They take your money for the higher declared value fee, but the fine print voids the payout for cards.
The Investigation: The Submission Test
I looked at the safest ways to ship to PSA/Beckett/CGC.
1. Direct FedEx/UPS Account
- Risk: High. Even if you declare
50k,iftheyloseit,theypointtothetarifflimit(50k,iftheyloseit,theypointtothetarifflimit(1k). You have to sue them to get more.
2. USPS Registered Mail
- Risk: Lowest.
- Why: “Registered Mail” is kept under lock and key and signed for at every handoff. It is slow, but it allows insurance up to $50,000. This is how diamond dealers ship.
3. Collect Insure (Transit Coverage)
- Risk: Low.
- Why: If you have a standing collection policy, it usually includes “Transit” coverage for cards you ship out for grading, often up to a specific limit (e.g., $5,000 or $10,000).
Comparison Table
| Shipping Method | Insurance Limit | Cost | Reliability |
| FedEx Standard | $1,000 (Cap) | High | Fast but Risky |
| USPS Registered | $50,000 | Medium | Slow / Safe |
| USPS Priority | $500 (Standard) | Low | High Theft Risk |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Use Registered Mail: For anything over $5,000, use USPS Registered Mail. It is the gold standard for security.
- Video the Packing: Record the cards, their condition, placing them in the box, and sealing it. This proves they were in the box when it left your hands.
- Check Your Collection Policy: Before shipping, call your dedicated insurer. “I am shipping $20k to PSA. Is this covered under my ‘Temporary Transit’ clause?”
FAQ
What if PSA loses it after they receive it?
PSA has insurance for items in their possession. The gap is the transit to them.
[IMAGE: Photo of a USPS Registered Mail package with paper tape and red stamps]