Document a postal trade with a written list both traders approve before either mails. A postal trade means each person ships cards to the other, so the note should name the exact cards, condition, and shipping plan.
Approval can be a simple reply such as agreed in the same chat thread. Keep that thread in one place until both sides receive their cards. A single record prevents mix-ups about versions, extras, and postage.
Table of Contents
- What the agreement should list
- How to agree on card condition
- How to record mailing and arrival
- What to save until the trade is done
What the agreement should list
Write one message that covers the full swap. List each card by name, set, card number, and stated condition. Add any extras, such as sleeves or bulk cards, so neither side expects more.
Ask the other trader to reply with approval or corrections. Update the list and ask again until both versions match. Mail only after the final version has clear approval from both sides.
- Card name, set name, card number, and quantity
- Stated condition for each card
- Who pays postage and which mail service to use
- Mail-by date and delivery addresses exchanged privately
How to agree on card condition
Condition means visible wear, such as edge whitening, scratches, bends, or creases. Grading terms like near mint and lightly played mean different things to different traders. Photos settle the meaning faster than labels alone.
Share clear front and back photos in good light before approval. Include close views of corners and edges for higher-value cards. If a mark shows in the photo, name it in the list so acceptance is explicit.
How to record mailing and arrival
Agree on a mail-by date and whether to use tracked mail. Tracking means a barcode scan that shows movement and delivery. It costs more, but it gives both sides a shared record.
Photograph the addressed package with postage attached before mailing. Share the mailing date and tracking number in the same thread. Ask each person to confirm arrival and match to the agreed list.
What to save until the trade is done
Keep the approved list, condition photos, and postage receipts until both sides confirm satisfaction. Message threads can be deleted or lost, so save copies outside the chat app. A folder with dates keeps versions in order.
If cards arrive different from the list, pause and compare photos before mailing anything back. Use the saved agreement to discuss repair options, such as return mail or replacement cards. Do not discard packaging until the issue is resolved.
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