How to Pack Your Toys
Packing your collection correctly makes sure it arrives safely and helps avoid any delays with your payment. Below is our step-by-step guide, with examples for the most common situations. If you're ever unsure how to pack a specific item, just ask, we're happy to help before you seal the box.
General Packing Principles
- Always use a sturdy, double-walled box, even small or "unbreakable" items should be boxed, not shipped in an envelope.
- Wrap every item individually. Never let items touch each other or the sides of the box directly.
- Fill all empty space with packing paper, bubble wrap, or packing peanuts so nothing can shift during transit.
- Heavier items go on the bottom, lighter and more fragile items go on top.
- Tape all seams securely, including a second layer along the bottom seam for extra support.
Packing Loose Figures and Small Items
Wrap each figure individually in bubble wrap or packing paper, securing with tape so it doesn't unravel. Group small accessories (weapons, parts) in a small sealed bag taped to or packed alongside their figure so nothing gets separated or lost.
Packing Boxed or Sealed Items (MISB)
Sealed and boxed items are especially vulnerable to corner and edge damage during shipping. Wrap the entire original box in bubble wrap before placing it in the shipping box, and never let a boxed item's corners touch the shipping box directly. Use extra padding at all six sides.
Packing Vehicles, Playsets, and Larger Items
Larger items should be packed in their own appropriately sized box whenever possible, rather than combined loosely with smaller items. Use extra cushioning around any protruding parts (antennas, small attachments, doors) to prevent them from snapping during transit.
Packing Graded or Certified Items
Graded cases (PSA, CGC, CAS, and similar) should never be wrapped tightly against bubble wrap or packing paper directly, instead, place the case in a rigid protective sleeve or box-within-a-box, then cushion generously on all sides so the outer case itself never absorbs direct impact.
Sealing and Labeling Your Box
Once everything is packed and cushioned, tape all seams (including the bottom) with strong packing tape. Attach the prepaid shipping label we emailed you securely to the top of the box, and make sure any old shipping labels or barcodes from prior boxes are removed or fully covered.
FAQs
Do I need to use a new box?
No, a sturdy used box is fine as long as it's in good condition and any old labels are removed or covered.
What if I don't have bubble wrap or packing peanuts?
Newspaper, packing paper, or even clean towels and clothing can work in a pinch, the goal is simply to prevent items from moving or touching each other during transit.
Should I insure the package?
Our prepaid shipping labels include insurance coverage, so you don't need to purchase anything extra.
What if my collection is too big for one box?
That's no problem, we'll provide multiple shipping labels if needed, or arrange pickup for very large or estate collections.
I'm not confident packing a fragile or valuable item, what should I do?
Reach out to us before you pack it. We're glad to walk you through it or suggest specific materials for anything unusually fragile or high-value.