My Insights on Finding the Next Best Alternative to USPS for Shipping Coins

Shipping coins to grading services like NGC and PCGS has been part of my routine for years, but lately, my USPS experiences around Atlanta have pushed me to find better solutions. After one too many delays and theft worries at that new regional processing center, I started testing alternatives to protect my shipments. Here’s what I’ve discovered about getting our coins where they need to go safely.

The USPS Headache in Atlanta

Back when I lived in Pennsylvania, USPS registered mail worked well enough – sure, deliveries sometimes took over 10 days, and I remember one package camping out in Irvine for a week. But here in Atlanta? That new facility’s turned shipping into a real mess. Mail disappears or gets stolen, rumors swirl about inside jobs, and even politicians are taking notice. If you’re in this area like me, you’re basically stuck with USPS, which makes me think twice before sending anything valuable.

Giving UPS and FedEx a Shot

These days, I’m leaning toward UPS or FedEx for peace of mind, even though they cost more. Their online calculators help estimate shipping costs based on weight and speed – great when you’re sending several coins at once. But for just an item or two? Honestly, it might be smarter to hold off until a coin show like Nashville’s upcoming IMEX event where grading services set up shop.

• Always add private insurance when using these carriers – their standard coverage often excludes coins or tops out around $1,000.
• Don’t forget that NGC and PCGS have different shipping addresses for UPS/FedEx versus USPS, so double-check those.

Why Private Insurance Matters

I’ll say it straight: private insurance is non-negotiable, no matter which service you use. I always declare minimal value (sometimes even zero) on shipping forms – it really cuts down theft temptation. My insurer actually charges less for USPS registered mail coverage, but with UPS or FedEx, it’s what guarantees full protection. This saved me after losing a Morgan dollar shipment through USPS.

Outsmarting Thieves with Packaging

Here’s my theft-deterrent routine: triple-box everything with return labels on every layer, seal it all with heavy-duty tape, and slip in some aluminum foil to block X-rays. After incidents in places like Chicago and Birmingham, I’ve learned this extra effort makes a real difference.

USPS Registered Mail: The Good and Bad

Despite everything, USPS registered mail still offers unique security – dedicated handlers, special containers, and intense tracking. Insurance costs less too, but man, does it move slow. Paying for priority or express is basically lighting money on fire since it won’t speed things up. Might still be worth it for ancient coins or items where you’d rather avoid customs attention.

So here’s the deal: USPS registered mail is cheaper and secure, but reliability depends entirely on your local facilities. For valuable or urgent shipments, I’m choosing UPS or FedEx with private insurance. Never cut corners on packaging, and always verify insurance details. Happy collecting – hope your coins travel safer than mine did!