Many people don't know about this, and I have used it for shipment for several transactions. I probably spend more than most on shipping and insurance relative to cues, but feel comfortable doing so, even though I have never had a cue damaged or lost/stolen in transit.
I have a buddy who used to work for the Postal Service. He stated that I should send any really valuable item Registered mail. There is a formal chain of custody for the item, and each person who touches the package during delivery has to sign for it. He said the carriers didn't particularly like the process because they had to sign as responsible for the item.
I have used it and it is piece of mind.
Also, one extra level of protection. This also carries additional cost. I have also used a shipping "store". I hand them the cue, fill out the paperwork for registered mail, stated insurance value, etc. Normally when I give them the value, their eyes open wide and they understand that the item needs to be packaged well. I tell them that I wrap each piece in bubble wrap, then wrap them all together in more bubble wrap. When the cue/item is shipped, if there is any damage/loss, etc. the claim is processed through the shipping company. Due to volume of business, claims tend to be addressed quicker. I shipped a Rolex years ago in this manner, and got a check in 3 weeks for the insured value. I am pretty confident that if I had showed up with a box already packed and simply had them place the label and ship it, I would have had a much harder time getting my claim paid. The box was sent back with a note stated that it was damaged and contents were not in it. The fact that I placed the watch in their hands and they packed it, etc. is what I think helped the most.
I would also like to know what others think and how they ship valuable items.
Here is what I pulled off of the USPS site:
What Is Registered Mail?
The USPS® offers a service called Registered Mail™ that provides extra protection for high-value letters and packages. When you elect to send a package by Registered Mail, the USPS establishes a chain of custody that tracks and secures your shipment throughout the entire transit process—from the moment you drop it off at the Post Office until the moment it’s delivered. Additionally, in the unlikely event of loss, theft or damage, your shipments can be insured for up to $25,000.
The cost of Registered Mail is based upon the declared value of your shipment with rates at $11.70 and up.
You can use Registered Mail with the following mail classes and services: First-Class Mail®, Priority Mail®, Collect-on-Delivery, USPS Tracking (packages only), Restricted Delivery, Return Receipt and Signature Confirmation™ (packages only).
Please note that due to the tight security provided for Registered Mail, it may take 10–14 days for your shipment to arrive at its destination
I have a buddy who used to work for the Postal Service. He stated that I should send any really valuable item Registered mail. There is a formal chain of custody for the item, and each person who touches the package during delivery has to sign for it. He said the carriers didn't particularly like the process because they had to sign as responsible for the item.
I have used it and it is piece of mind.
Also, one extra level of protection. This also carries additional cost. I have also used a shipping "store". I hand them the cue, fill out the paperwork for registered mail, stated insurance value, etc. Normally when I give them the value, their eyes open wide and they understand that the item needs to be packaged well. I tell them that I wrap each piece in bubble wrap, then wrap them all together in more bubble wrap. When the cue/item is shipped, if there is any damage/loss, etc. the claim is processed through the shipping company. Due to volume of business, claims tend to be addressed quicker. I shipped a Rolex years ago in this manner, and got a check in 3 weeks for the insured value. I am pretty confident that if I had showed up with a box already packed and simply had them place the label and ship it, I would have had a much harder time getting my claim paid. The box was sent back with a note stated that it was damaged and contents were not in it. The fact that I placed the watch in their hands and they packed it, etc. is what I think helped the most.
I would also like to know what others think and how they ship valuable items.
Here is what I pulled off of the USPS site:
What Is Registered Mail?
The USPS® offers a service called Registered Mail™ that provides extra protection for high-value letters and packages. When you elect to send a package by Registered Mail, the USPS establishes a chain of custody that tracks and secures your shipment throughout the entire transit process—from the moment you drop it off at the Post Office until the moment it’s delivered. Additionally, in the unlikely event of loss, theft or damage, your shipments can be insured for up to $25,000.
The cost of Registered Mail is based upon the declared value of your shipment with rates at $11.70 and up.
You can use Registered Mail with the following mail classes and services: First-Class Mail®, Priority Mail®, Collect-on-Delivery, USPS Tracking (packages only), Restricted Delivery, Return Receipt and Signature Confirmation™ (packages only).
Please note that due to the tight security provided for Registered Mail, it may take 10–14 days for your shipment to arrive at its destination
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