White Whale Grading

Before you ship

Packing & Shipping Instructions

Please follow these guidelines carefully when preparing and shipping your cards for grading. Proper packing protects your cards during transit and helps ensure a smooth submission process.

01

Prepare & Pack Your Cards

  • Handle cards only with clean, dry hands.
  • Place each card in a soft penny sleeve and put it in a semi-rigid holder.
  • Avoid screw-downs, magnets, or anything that applies pressure or leaves residue.
  • Pack the protected cards in a sturdy cardboard box. Cushion thoroughly with bubble wrap, foam, or packing paper so nothing can shift, bend, or rattle. Fill all empty space and keep cards flat.
  • Include your printed packing slip in a sealed bag inside the box.
  • Seal the box securely with strong packing tape.
02

Include Required Documents

  • Your printed packing slip
  • Insure your package to us with your carrier. Our optional return insurance covers the trip back to you.
  • Any special instructions or notes
  • Your full contact information (name, address, phone, email)
  • Keep a copy of everything for your records. Place documents in a separate sealed plastic bag or envelope so they stay dry and readable.
03

Shipping Recommendations

  • Use a tracked and insured shipping method. We strongly recommend insurance that covers the full declared value of your cards.
  • Suitable carriers typically include USPS (Priority Mail or Priority Mail Express with insurance), UPS, or FedEx. Choose tracking and signature confirmation where available.
  • Clearly write the shipping address and your return address on the outside of the package.
  • Do not write “cards,” “collectibles,” or high values on the exterior in a way that draws unnecessary attention.
  • Ship during the week when possible so packages are less likely to sit over weekends.
04

Important Tips & Reminders

  • Double-check that every card is properly sleeved and protected before sealing the box.
  • Take photos of the packed cards and the sealed package for your records before shipping.
  • Keep your tracking number and insurance receipt.
  • Return shipping after grading is $12 for 1–8 cards, $18 for 9–22 cards, and $22 for 23–40 cards. Each additional box is $22.
  • Optional return insurance covers loss or damage on the way back to you and is based on the declared value entered for each card.
  • Cards that arrive damaged due to insufficient packing may not be eligible for full consideration or may incur additional handling notes.
  • We are not responsible for loss or damage before the package is received and logged at our facility. Proper packing and insurance are your best protection.