It looks like PSA *did* make an announcement, as I found it on www.psacard.com. under "Market Report and News". Clicking on the articile gives the details, and shows an announcement date of February 16th.
You would think that PSA people would post it in places like here where people are more likely to see it.
If such a change was to be made, they should have revised the sub form with lower shipping charges going forward but fulfilled the registered mail shipping that their customers paid for for the pending submissions. Changing policy in mid-stream seems odd and ill-advised from a customer service standpoint.
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
<< <i>It looks like PSA *did* make an announcement, as I found it on www.psacard.com. under "Market Report and News". Clicking on the articile gives the details, and shows an announcement date of February 16th.
You would think that PSA people would post it in places like here where people are more likely to see it. >>
Well. I found the article, but I don't see the pricing grid it refers to.
Again, the email I received today from PSA had a registered mail tracking number, so it looks they have switched back to registered for the time being.
how you as a customer sends your package to psa is your business. if you want to take the risk of a loss using first class or priority mail that is your decision. but when you pay for a certain level of mail service then that is what should be delivered by PSA.
in terms of priority mail being just as safe - not true. I"ve had several priority boxes opened during shipment and ended up with contents missing. the odds of a mail person leaving a priority mail package without the signature are much greater than a mail person leaving a registered package without signature...that would rarely, if ever happen.
<< <i>I ship my cards to them priority and have never had a problem.
I hate finding the slip in the mailbox and then have to drive to the post office to wait in line and sign.
Flat rate box is easier for them, it's easier for me.
Most of our cards are modern junk, but we'd like to think they're more valuable than they really are.
If you think your cards are worth a lot, insure them on the PSA submission slip.
PSA is entitled to make a profit on shipping and handling.
We agree to the shipping and handling charges when we send our sub.
PSA said they will issue refunds for the difference during the switch, be happy with this.
If a kid comes by and snatches your priority box from your porch, life will go on. I promise. >>
So, if after you submit they change some other agreed-upon term, like the guaranteed turnaround time that you paid a premium for, you're 100% OK with that if they send a refund?
Or, if seller changes his mind and sends you a lower grade, but cheerfully refund the difference, you're OK with that??
A deal's a deal, and sending in a submission is making an agreement that SHOULD bind both parties.
---------------------- Working on the following: 1970 Baseball PSA, 1970-1976 Raw, World Series Subsets PSA, 1969 Expansion Teams PSA, Fleer World Series Sets, Texas Rangers Topps Run 1972-1989 ----------------------
Successful deals to date: thedudeabides,gameusedhoop,golfcollector,tigerdean,treetop,bkritz, CapeMOGuy,WeekendHacker,jeff8877,backbidder,Salinas,milbroco,bbuckner22,VitoCo1972,ddfamf,gemint,K,fatty macs,waltersobchak,dboneesq
<< <i>I ship my cards to them priority and have never had a problem.
I hate finding the slip in the mailbox and then have to drive to the post office to wait in line and sign.
Flat rate box is easier for them, it's easier for me.
Most of our cards are modern junk, but we'd like to think they're more valuable than they really are.
If you think your cards are worth a lot, insure them on the PSA submission slip.
PSA is entitled to make a profit on shipping and handling.
We agree to the shipping and handling charges when we send our sub.
PSA said they will issue refunds for the difference during the switch, be happy with this.
If a kid comes by and snatches your priority box from your porch, life will go on. I promise. >>
So, if after you submit they change some other agreed-upon term, like the guaranteed turnaround time that you paid a premium for, you're 100% OK with that if they send a refund?
Or, if seller changes his mind and sends you a lower grade, but cheerfully refund the difference, you're OK with that??
A deal's a deal, and sending in a submission is making an agreement that SHOULD bind both parties. >>
did PSA change the turnaround time on people?
your examples do not apply to this situation.
deals a deal, but PSA made a goof and they made up for it.
I've been upset over transactions too, and get flamed for sharing those experiences here...some of you guys need to take your own advice.
I don't see what all the fuss is about. According to the PSA announcement, they are going to continue to use Registered Mail for all shipments where the value is $100,000 to $150,000. That should cover most of us, shouldn't it?
"It's not so important who starts the game but who finishes it." - John Wooden
Personally I will like getting the cards back sooner, but they should give you the option of how you want to shipped back. I think more poeple might send in commons to be slabbed if they knew they did not have to pay more for shipping than they did the card.
1. Registered is CHEAPER than priority when you reach a level around $1,000.
2. Signature confirmation can be carrier signed and left on the porch etc, Registered cannot
3. When you ship to PSA (priority mail) they have a PO BOX, the package is inside a locked government facility, not on your front porch, left at a neighbor's, mis-delivered etc.
4. The only savings I see here is time to package. The paper tape is a PITA, they can seal your priority package with cello tape.
5. Any $$ they are saving in packaging time, they are tossing out with increased insurance rates, that is if they are ACTUALLY INSURING THEM through the PO. I'm guessing they are now "self insuring" and collecting a windfall profit by charging USPS rates etc.
6. If #5 is true, I want to hear how claims will be handled...I can see it now...
Submitter to PSA: My $3K package still isn't here PSA: we checked to USPS tracking and see it was delivered on Feb 25th @ 3:10 PM Submitter: who signed for it? I know it wasn't me PSA: carrier released it Submitter: well I don't have it PSA: check with you carrier Carrier: it was my day off, sub did the route, screwed up alot of stuff, wrong mailboxes, delivered to houses that were on "HOLD" for vacations etc. Submitter: anyone see my package? Carrier: I'll check around, but if it was important and valuable it should have been sent REGISTERED
Submitter to PSA: Now what? It's been another week and it hasn't turned up. PSA: USPS tracking says delivered on Feb 25th @ 3:10 PM Submitter: I've been through all that, .....tells whole story to different CS person PSA: really don't know what to tell you, our self insurer coverage states that USPS online tracking will determine receipt, guess you better hope it turns up, Is there anything else I can help you with today? Submitter: What? PSA: have a nice day (click)
<< <i>Looks like they've now switched back to registered for the time being. You can easily tell which method was used for your sub by the tracking number. If there's a number starting with RE, it's registered.
I actually prefer priority, but oh well. I assume we'll be getting an announcement soon and than a permanent change.
A PO box is well worth it for those who are worried about packages being left at their door. I got one after having a vintage set left out by a temp carrier. >>
checked the message that said they mailed my cards out yesterday and the tracking number begins with RE....Whoooo, guess I'm going to be ok.
I just checked my sub shipped back to me on Wed... the delivery # starts with RE but when I checked the confirmation number is says PRIORITY MAIL! It should be to me today.....fingers crossed..... I hope this move by PSA works.. especially for me today! Paul
<< <i>I just checked my sub shipped back to me on Wed... the delivery # starts with RE but when I checked the confirmation number is says PRIORITY MAIL! It should be to me today.....fingers crossed..... I hope this move by PSA works.. especially for me today! Paul >>
It's registered priority mail. Packages over a certain weight cannot be sent through first class mail. They couldn't give you a RE tracking number if it wasn't registered.
Reading the following I'm guessing they are "self insuring". Good luck with claims....
Effective March 1, 2010, PSA will be implementing a new method of shipping collectibles back to the submitter. For all packages with a value of $100,000 or less, we will begin using USPS Priority or Express Mail vs. the previously used Registered Mail. Priority Mail service will be used for packages valued up to $15,000 and Express Mail will be used for packages valued between $15,000 and $100,000.
Packages valued between $100,000 and $150,000 will continue to use Registered Mail. (For packages over $150k, you must call the PSA Customer Service.)
All packages will be fully insured by PSA. Signatures will continue to be required to receive all packages.
An email will automatically be sent to the recipient when either a Priority or Express Mail package is mailed. This email will contain the USPS tracking number associated with that package. The package can then be tracked using that number on the USPS website - www.usps.com .
Priority Mail packages typically take 2-4 days to arrive anywhere within the US.
Express Mail packages typically take 1-2 days to arrive anywhere within the US.
Most importantly, PSA has lowered the cost of return shipping for any package valued at less than $100k, regardless of the number of cards or collectibles being submitted (see new pricing grid below).
For the next 90 days, if you submit collectibles using an old submission form, we will automatically calculate any refund due you and reimburse you for the difference. We have ordered new forms and expect them to arrive within the next few days. Please be sure to discard your old forms.
FWIW, I have begun sending my cards to PSA priority. That is however, my business, whether I send it USPS, FedEx or Pony Express. How I get it to PSA is my decision AND my responsibility.
Once it is in PSA's hands, it now becomes THEIR responsibility. If they want to take a chance of sending my 2-3k worth of cards I have on an average sub priority, then it becomes THEIR potential problem. If they will back up their decision with a smooth and easy claim service if something happens and not this WAIT 120 days nonsense, then I dont see a problem...EXCEPT...if it IS smooth and easy, how long will it take for the scamsters to see the light and start working a new profit model??
As for them charging one thing and doing another. If someone on ebay charged $3 for shipping and it cost them $2.17, many here would be ready to hang them by their nads over 83 cents. PSA has been gouging on the shipping for years and now are sending at lower levels where the difference is $10 or more dollars?? I think the venting would have been 1000 posts by now. Either way, PSA has set the price for shipping, it is now in their court to do what they and all of us think is right.
Edited to add: Has anyone got a link for the new shipping fees? I cant find anything other than the info shown a few posts above. Really, you would think it would be posted on the "Customer service update" page, but that still has the OLD shipping rates
People have written here in the past that psa always used self-insurance at least up to certain value ranges (ie declared the registered mail up to their deductible or something like that). I don't know if that was ever confirmed.
Since the USPS records signatures, it shouldn't be that hard to show that a carrier signed for a package if infact that happens. It isn't uncommon for the usps online delivery status to be changed to non-delivery following a customer complaint. I've read about scammers working the system in this way on the ebay boards.
I've been through usps insurance claims before, and it was a PITA. People here who use private insurance say that the claims process is much smoother and quicker.
PSA has had horrible service for years as they continue to have cards sent to them and then hold the cards hostage for months waiting on the grade.
They know they can do as they please and the majority will keep using their service. No changes until the customers stand up and say "Enough"
My cards from the "other" company (and not Beckett) sell for just as much. I just don't understand the fascination with PSA and their crappy service. >>
If my orders took that long, I would use those companies more, but for many of us PSA offers the quickest service. 90% of my psa orders over the last year have taken a week, and I've never paid for the expedited services. No other grading will match that. When I've submitted to beckett or SGC, they either held the order until the last guaranteed day or close to it. My biggest gripe with PSA has been the shipping expense (we'll see how much goes down) and the delay caused by registered mail.
I'm not a big-time submitter like some folks, so the overwhelming majority of the cards I submit end up in my collection if they grade well. Taking one of my more recent pops, I pulled 2 VERY low pop vintage cards in 10; something I had never done before. Nothing PSA could have done would have replaced the thrill of holding those for the first time, ESPECIALLY since I set their value at PSA 8 level on the sub form like I always do on vintage. Getting reimbursed at my stated value after never getting to hold those would a have a double-kick in the grapes. ESPECIALLY since we had a contract that they would ship Registered.
---------------------- Working on the following: 1970 Baseball PSA, 1970-1976 Raw, World Series Subsets PSA, 1969 Expansion Teams PSA, Fleer World Series Sets, Texas Rangers Topps Run 1972-1989 ----------------------
Successful deals to date: thedudeabides,gameusedhoop,golfcollector,tigerdean,treetop,bkritz, CapeMOGuy,WeekendHacker,jeff8877,backbidder,Salinas,milbroco,bbuckner22,VitoCo1972,ddfamf,gemint,K,fatty macs,waltersobchak,dboneesq
<< <i>Personally I will like getting the cards back sooner, but they should give you the option of how you want to shipped back. I think more poeple might send in commons to be slabbed if they knew they did not have to pay more for shipping than they did the card. >>
I agree... I think with lowering shipping, many more "registry" cards will be sent in, which will help the bottom line on grading fees....
Cory ---------------------- Working on: Football 1973 Topps PSA 8+ (99.81%) 1976 Topps PSA 9+ (36.36%) 1977 Topps PSA 9+ (100%)
"...People here who use private insurance say that the claims process is much smoother and quicker...."
///////////////////////////////////
So far, I don't see any info that says PSA is going to use "private insurance" on USPS shipped items.
I am unaware of ANY "private insurance carrier" that will process/pay an INR-claim if the DC/SC shows that the item was delivered.
USPS INS will process/pay such claims.
Having been burned by the "private insurance" used by some large card sellers, I would NEVER again do biznez with those sellers.
......................
It is often said here - in regard to EBAY/PayPal transactions - "Insurance is for the benefit of the seller, UNLESS a misdelivered item is shown as 'delivered' by DC/SC."
Because of the notoriously incompetent "relief carrier" scheme used by USPS, it would be a HUGE mistake for PSA - and their customers - to rely on "private insurance" to cover their shipments.
Folks Who Bite Get Bitten. Folks Who Don't Bite Get Eaten.
I can't make it past the second page of this thread without getting a headache... I just hate whining. Let's just wait until they give us an explanation before we jump to conclusions.
<< <i>"...People here who use private insurance say that the claims process is much smoother and quicker...."
///////////////////////////////////
So far, I don't see any info that says PSA is going to use "private insurance" on USPS shipped items.
I am unaware of ANY "private insurance carrier" that will process/pay an INR-claim if the DC/SC shows that the item was delivered.
USPS INS will process/pay such claims.
Having been burned by the "private insurance" used by some large card sellers, I would NEVER again do biznez with those sellers.
......................
It is often said here - in regard to EBAY/PayPal transactions - "Insurance is for the benefit of the seller, UNLESS a misdelivered item is shown as 'delivered' by DC/SC."
Because of the notoriously incompetent "relief carrier" scheme used by USPS, it would be a HUGE mistake for PSA - and their customers - to rely on "private insurance" to cover their shipments. >>
I rechecked my label--it simply says e/usps signature confirmation and the tracking number also doesn't show any mention of insurance. When I've printed out insured labels, the tracking and the label both stated that the package was insured. Also, I doubt the submission prices would have decreased for the coin guys if they were paying usps insurance rates.
Misdelivery issues for dc and sc are night and day. DC simply involves someone scanning a bar code, possibly before the package was even brought to the residence. SC involves a live person signing for a package, and as far as I know every signature is recorded.
The last usps claim I filed took two months and that was with the tracking showing that it was undelivered. I hate to think how long it would take if it showed up as delivered.
<< <i>I am unaware of ANY "private insurance carrier" that will process/pay an INR-claim if the DC/SC shows that the item was delivered. >>
U-pic.com will. The only claim I ever submitted to them was for a package that was confirmed delivered. It was for $200-300, and u-pic paid it no questions asked, and quickly. I submitted it online and had a check within days.
On the other hand, I filed a $50 claim with the USPS once, and I had to jump through all sorts of hoops to get my money. It took weeks to get the cash, too. It wasn't worth the time I spent on it.
" rechecked my label--it simply says e/usps signature confirmation and the tracking number also doesn't show any mention of insurance. When I've printed out insured labels, the tracking and the label both stated that the package was insured. Also, I doubt the submission prices would have decreased for the coin guys if they were paying usps insurance rates."
Likely indicates non-USPS "insurance."
"Misdelivery issues for dc and sc are night and day. DC simply involves someone scanning a bar code, possibly before the package was even brought to the residence. SC involves a live person signing for a package, and as far as I know every signature is recorded."
While SC is a stronger aggravator against a successful claim, it is, in practice, far from night/day.
USPS claims are processed/paid everyday in cases where a carrier signed for items OR where UA-third-parties signed for items.
"The last usps claim I filed took two months and that was with the tracking showing that it was undelivered. I hate to think how long it would take if it showed up as delivered."
That claims experience is not typical. The process is generally fast, fair, and provides for multiple levels of appeals to adverse decisions.
The USPS is fully aware that the DC "proves" little. They routinely pay claims when the DC mistakenly shows delivery. When a "relief carrier" is shown to be involved, such claims are near slam-dunks.
Based on my personal experiences - and those related by associates - "private insurance" is a grossly inferior product when compared to USPS insurance.
Folks Who Bite Get Bitten. Folks Who Don't Bite Get Eaten.
While SC is a stronger aggravator against a successful claim, it is, in practice, far from night/day.
USPS claims are processed/paid everyday in cases where a carrier signed for items OR where UA-third-parties signed for items.
I'm not talking about the claim process. It's night and day because it's easier to prove that a signature was forged by a carrier than it is to prove that a carrier scanned a dc label and put it in a wrong box. One actually has physical evidence. Then the consumer can request that the online status be updated to show non-delivery.
"<< I am unaware of ANY "private insurance carrier" that will process/pay an INR-claim if the DC/SC shows that the item was delivered. >>
U-pic.com will. The only claim I ever submitted to them was for a package that was confirmed delivered. It was for $200-300, and u-pic paid it no questions asked, and quickly. I submitted it online and had a check within days.
While there is no specific mention of the DC circumstance, it is ONLY reasonable that ANY legit provider would at the very least "accept for processing" claims arising from wrongly issued DC/SC-tickets.
The sellers that have burned me, have simply refused to submit the claim to their provider, stating, "Our carrier will not process such claims."
This U-PIC provision is fun:
"...In the event the carrier admits to fraudulent activity from carrier employees, the insured will take action against the carrier and not hold U-PIC responsible for claims associated...."
While U-PIC excludes some types of items, cards are not noted as being excluded.
Their service seems like it is often used in conjunction with USPS INS.
.........
Folks Who Bite Get Bitten. Folks Who Don't Bite Get Eaten.
Well its a good thing I live in a rural area . I just have all packages kept at the post office which is 200 yards from my house. No mailbox at my residence . No deliveries come here , to the PO only.
A collector of all things Braves Always looking for Chipper Jones cards. Im a very focused collector of cards from 1909 - 2012...LOL
<< <i>It looks like PSA *did* make an announcement, as I found it on www.psacard.com. under "Market Report and News". Clicking on the articile gives the details, and shows an announcement date of February 16th.
You would think that PSA people would post it in places like here where people are more likely to see it. >>
This is where usually i would retort with a political joke about how Congress buries pork on a bill about 200 pages in. But i won't.
I haven't taken time to read all the posts here, but I am pleased with this change. I've been shipping/buying for 11 years and I've had a total of ONE package lost in transit, and I've never used registered.
Meanwhile, I've been sick and tired of waiting 2-3 weeks for an UNTRACKABLE registered package from PSA. This new INSURED priority mail flat rate box means I get my cards quicker with the same insurance protection as before. Only now, I get them 20 days faster AND I can get online and find where they are in transit. I get my cards faster, I can sell them faster, which means I can make additional purchases quicker, and get subs in more frequently.
If you live in an area where the letter carrier signs for and leaves packages on your front porch, why don't you just get a PO box? Not just for your PSA packages, but for all the other stuff you buy as well. Problem solved, for around $50 a year
I do have a PO box that I use for all of my Ebay transactions. I can switch my PSA address to there and not have to worry about it.
From what I can tell, 707 is the DOLLAR STORE compared to deans_cards. For what that guy charges, if I ever bought anything from him I would expect it to be delivered to me in a frickin' limo. ~WalterSobchak
<< <i>Meanwhile, I've been sick and tired of waiting 2-3 weeks for an UNTRACKABLE registered package from PSA. This new INSURED priority mail flat rate box means I get my cards quicker with the same insurance protection as before. Only now, I get them 20 days faster AND I can get online and find where they are in transit. I get my cards faster, I can sell them faster, which means I can make additional purchases quicker, and get subs in more frequently.
Works for me
Bravo PSA >>
I heard that!! My last shipment took 2 weeks to get back from PSA from the time it was "shipped"! Plus I'm sick of chasing my package at the Post Office because they won't leave it at my house due to signature confirmation. I work 8am to 5pm. The Post Office is open from 8:30am to 5pm. Every time I have to pick up a package from the PO, I have to take time off of work. If I sign the little pink slip for the package to be dropped off, it takes an additional three days for the package to be left at my house. I'm hoping this new change will shorten the delivery time, and allow the mailman to leave it on my door step.
Comments
You would think that PSA people would post it in places like here where people are more likely to see it.
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
<< <i>It looks like PSA *did* make an announcement, as I found it on www.psacard.com. under "Market Report and News". Clicking on the articile gives the details, and shows an announcement date of February 16th.
You would think that PSA people would post it in places like here where people are more likely to see it. >>
Well. I found the article, but I don't see the pricing grid it refers to.
Again, the email I received today from PSA had a registered mail tracking number, so it looks they have switched back to registered for the time being.
I hate finding the slip in the mailbox and then have to drive to the post office to wait in line and sign.
Flat rate box is easier for them, it's easier for me.
Most of our cards are modern junk, but we'd like to think they're more valuable than they really are.
If you think your cards are worth a lot, insure them on the PSA submission slip.
PSA is entitled to make a profit on shipping and handling.
We agree to the shipping and handling charges when we send our sub.
PSA said they will issue refunds for the difference during the switch, be happy with this.
If a kid comes by and snatches your priority box from your porch, life will go on. I promise.
Mullins --where you out playing basketball again today, and hit your head on the rim??
post # 3333
how you as a customer sends your package to psa is your business. if you want to take the risk of a loss using first class or priority mail that is your decision. but when you pay for a certain level of mail service then that is what should be delivered by PSA.
in terms of priority mail being just as safe - not true. I"ve had several priority boxes opened during shipment and ended up with contents missing. the odds of a mail person leaving a priority mail package without the signature are much greater than a mail person leaving a registered package without signature...that would rarely, if ever happen.
<< <i>I ship my cards to them priority and have never had a problem.
I hate finding the slip in the mailbox and then have to drive to the post office to wait in line and sign.
Flat rate box is easier for them, it's easier for me.
Most of our cards are modern junk, but we'd like to think they're more valuable than they really are.
If you think your cards are worth a lot, insure them on the PSA submission slip.
PSA is entitled to make a profit on shipping and handling.
We agree to the shipping and handling charges when we send our sub.
PSA said they will issue refunds for the difference during the switch, be happy with this.
If a kid comes by and snatches your priority box from your porch, life will go on. I promise. >>
So, if after you submit they change some other agreed-upon term, like the guaranteed turnaround time that you paid a premium for, you're 100% OK with that if they send a refund?
Or, if seller changes his mind and sends you a lower grade, but cheerfully refund the difference, you're OK with that??
A deal's a deal, and sending in a submission is making an agreement that SHOULD bind both parties.
Working on the following: 1970 Baseball PSA, 1970-1976 Raw, World Series Subsets PSA, 1969 Expansion Teams PSA, Fleer World Series Sets, Texas Rangers Topps Run 1972-1989
----------------------
Successful deals to date: thedudeabides,gameusedhoop,golfcollector,tigerdean,treetop,bkritz, CapeMOGuy,WeekendHacker,jeff8877,backbidder,Salinas,milbroco,bbuckner22,VitoCo1972,ddfamf,gemint,K,fatty macs,waltersobchak,dboneesq
<< <i>Mullins --where you out playing basketball again today, and hit your head on the rim?? >>
hockey puck to the face
<< <i>
<< <i>I ship my cards to them priority and have never had a problem.
I hate finding the slip in the mailbox and then have to drive to the post office to wait in line and sign.
Flat rate box is easier for them, it's easier for me.
Most of our cards are modern junk, but we'd like to think they're more valuable than they really are.
If you think your cards are worth a lot, insure them on the PSA submission slip.
PSA is entitled to make a profit on shipping and handling.
We agree to the shipping and handling charges when we send our sub.
PSA said they will issue refunds for the difference during the switch, be happy with this.
If a kid comes by and snatches your priority box from your porch, life will go on. I promise. >>
So, if after you submit they change some other agreed-upon term, like the guaranteed turnaround time that you paid a premium for, you're 100% OK with that if they send a refund?
Or, if seller changes his mind and sends you a lower grade, but cheerfully refund the difference, you're OK with that??
A deal's a deal, and sending in a submission is making an agreement that SHOULD bind both parties. >>
did PSA change the turnaround time on people?
your examples do not apply to this situation.
deals a deal, but PSA made a goof and they made up for it.
I've been upset over transactions too, and get flamed for sharing those experiences here...some of you guys need to take your own advice.
- John Wooden
I asked that question because the site advises for us to use registered mail when submitting, and fwiw, of the 8 or so times that
I have submitted 7 of those times I used registered mail. I only used priority the last time because someone here mentioned
that they do it that way and many others chimed in.
Steve
Been a whole week, I was starting to suffer the shakes.
Steve
1. Registered is CHEAPER than priority when you reach a level around $1,000.
2. Signature confirmation can be carrier signed and left on the porch etc, Registered cannot
3. When you ship to PSA (priority mail) they have a PO BOX, the package is inside a locked government facility, not on your front porch, left at a neighbor's, mis-delivered etc.
4. The only savings I see here is time to package. The paper tape is a PITA, they can seal your priority package with cello tape.
5. Any $$ they are saving in packaging time, they are tossing out with increased insurance rates, that is if they are ACTUALLY INSURING THEM through the PO. I'm guessing they are now "self insuring" and collecting a windfall profit by charging USPS rates etc.
6. If #5 is true, I want to hear how claims will be handled...I can see it now...
Submitter to PSA: My $3K package still isn't here
PSA: we checked to USPS tracking and see it was delivered on Feb 25th @ 3:10 PM
Submitter: who signed for it? I know it wasn't me
PSA: carrier released it
Submitter: well I don't have it
PSA: check with you carrier
Carrier: it was my day off, sub did the route, screwed up alot of stuff, wrong mailboxes, delivered to houses that were on "HOLD" for vacations etc.
Submitter: anyone see my package?
Carrier: I'll check around, but if it was important and valuable it should have been sent REGISTERED
Submitter to PSA: Now what? It's been another week and it hasn't turned up.
PSA: USPS tracking says delivered on Feb 25th @ 3:10 PM
Submitter: I've been through all that, .....tells whole story to different CS person
PSA: really don't know what to tell you, our self insurer coverage states that USPS online tracking will determine receipt, guess you better hope it turns up, Is there anything else I can help you with today?
Submitter: What?
PSA: have a nice day (click)
Love the scenario too!
Steve
<< <i>Looks like they've now switched back to registered for the time being. You can easily tell which method was used for your sub by the tracking number. If there's a number starting with RE, it's registered.
I actually prefer priority, but oh well. I assume we'll be getting an announcement soon and than a permanent change.
A PO box is well worth it for those who are worried about packages being left at their door. I got one after having a vintage set left out by a temp carrier. >>
checked the message that said they mailed my cards out yesterday and the tracking number begins with RE....Whoooo, guess I'm going to be ok.
al.
Paul
<< <i>I just checked my sub shipped back to me on Wed... the delivery # starts with RE but when I checked the confirmation number is says PRIORITY MAIL! It should be to me today.....fingers crossed..... I hope this move by PSA works.. especially for me today!
Paul >>
It's registered priority mail. Packages over a certain weight cannot be sent through first class mail. They couldn't give you a RE tracking number if it wasn't registered.
Effective March 1, 2010, PSA will be implementing a new method of shipping collectibles back to the submitter. For all packages with a value of $100,000 or less, we will begin using USPS Priority or Express Mail vs. the previously used Registered Mail. Priority Mail service will be used for packages valued up to $15,000 and Express Mail will be used for packages valued between $15,000 and $100,000.
Packages valued between $100,000 and $150,000 will continue to use Registered Mail. (For packages over $150k, you must call the PSA Customer Service.)
All packages will be fully insured by PSA. Signatures will continue to be required to receive all packages.
An email will automatically be sent to the recipient when either a Priority or Express Mail package is mailed. This email will contain the USPS tracking number associated with that package. The package can then be tracked using that number on the USPS website - www.usps.com .
Priority Mail packages typically take 2-4 days to arrive anywhere within the US.
Express Mail packages typically take 1-2 days to arrive anywhere within the US.
Most importantly, PSA has lowered the cost of return shipping for any package valued at less than $100k, regardless of the number of cards or collectibles being submitted (see new pricing grid below).
For the next 90 days, if you submit collectibles using an old submission form, we will automatically calculate any refund due you and reimburse you for the difference. We have ordered new forms and expect them to arrive within the next few days. Please be sure to discard your old forms.
Once it is in PSA's hands, it now becomes THEIR responsibility. If they want to take a chance of sending my 2-3k worth of cards I have on an average sub priority, then it becomes THEIR potential problem. If they will back up their decision with a smooth and easy claim service if something happens and not this WAIT 120 days nonsense, then I dont see a problem...EXCEPT...if it IS smooth and easy, how long will it take for the scamsters to see the light and start working a new profit model??
As for them charging one thing and doing another. If someone on ebay charged $3 for shipping and it cost them $2.17, many here would be ready to hang them by their nads over 83 cents. PSA has been gouging on the shipping for years and now are sending at lower levels where the difference is $10 or more dollars?? I think the venting would have been 1000 posts by now. Either way, PSA has set the price for shipping, it is now in their court to do what they and all of us think is right.
Edited to add: Has anyone got a link for the new shipping fees? I cant find anything other than the info shown a few posts above. Really, you would think it would be posted on the "Customer service update" page, but that still has the OLD shipping rates
Since the USPS records signatures, it shouldn't be that hard to show that a carrier signed for a package if infact that happens. It isn't uncommon for the usps online delivery status to be changed to non-delivery following a customer complaint. I've read about scammers working the system in this way on the ebay boards.
I've been through usps insurance claims before, and it was a PITA. People here who use private insurance say that the claims process is much smoother and quicker.
PSA has had horrible service for years as they continue to have cards sent to them and then hold the cards hostage for months waiting on the grade.
They know they can do as they please and the majority will keep using their service. No changes until the customers stand up and say "Enough"
My cards from the "other" company (and not Beckett) sell for just as much. I just don't understand the fascination with PSA and their crappy service.
<< <i>Why is everybody upset?
PSA has had horrible service for years as they continue to have cards sent to them and then hold the cards hostage for months waiting on the grade.
They know they can do as they please and the majority will keep using their service. No changes until the customers stand up and say "Enough"
My cards from the "other" company (and not Beckett) sell for just as much. I just don't understand the fascination with PSA and their crappy service. >>
If my orders took that long, I would use those companies more, but for many of us PSA offers the quickest service. 90% of my psa orders over the last year have taken a week, and I've never paid for the expedited services. No other grading will match that. When I've submitted to beckett or SGC, they either held the order until the last guaranteed day or close to it. My biggest gripe with PSA has been the shipping expense (we'll see how much goes down) and the delay caused by registered mail.
<< <i>......Most of our cards are modern junk, but we'd like to think they're more valuable than they really are.......... >>
Ridiculous generalization.
<< <i>.......If a kid comes by and snatches your priority box from your porch, life will go on. I promise.............. >>
Ridiculous statement.
Working on the following: 1970 Baseball PSA, 1970-1976 Raw, World Series Subsets PSA, 1969 Expansion Teams PSA, Fleer World Series Sets, Texas Rangers Topps Run 1972-1989
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Successful deals to date: thedudeabides,gameusedhoop,golfcollector,tigerdean,treetop,bkritz, CapeMOGuy,WeekendHacker,jeff8877,backbidder,Salinas,milbroco,bbuckner22,VitoCo1972,ddfamf,gemint,K,fatty macs,waltersobchak,dboneesq
<< <i>Personally I will like getting the cards back sooner, but they should give you the option of how you want to shipped back. I think more poeple might send in commons to be slabbed if they knew they did not have to pay more for shipping than they did the card. >>
I agree... I think with lowering shipping, many more "registry" cards will be sent in, which will help the bottom line on grading fees....
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Working on:
Football
1973 Topps PSA 8+ (99.81%)
1976 Topps PSA 9+ (36.36%)
1977 Topps PSA 9+ (100%)
Baseball
1938 Goudey (56.25%)
1951 Topps Redbacks PSA 8 (100%)
1952 Bowman PSA 7+ (63.10%)
1953 Topps PSA 5+ (91.24%)
1973 Topps PSA 8+ (70.76%)
1985 Fleer PSA 10 (54.85%)
"...People here who use private insurance say that the claims process is much smoother and quicker...."
///////////////////////////////////
So far, I don't see any info that says PSA is going to use "private insurance"
on USPS shipped items.
I am unaware of ANY "private insurance carrier" that will process/pay an
INR-claim if the DC/SC shows that the item was delivered.
USPS INS will process/pay such claims.
Having been burned by the "private insurance" used by some large card
sellers, I would NEVER again do biznez with those sellers.
......................
It is often said here - in regard to EBAY/PayPal transactions - "Insurance
is for the benefit of the seller, UNLESS a misdelivered item is shown as
'delivered' by DC/SC."
Because of the notoriously incompetent "relief carrier" scheme used by
USPS, it would be a HUGE mistake for PSA - and their customers - to rely
on "private insurance" to cover their shipments.
<< <i>"...People here who use private insurance say that the claims process is much smoother and quicker...."
///////////////////////////////////
So far, I don't see any info that says PSA is going to use "private insurance"
on USPS shipped items.
I am unaware of ANY "private insurance carrier" that will process/pay an
INR-claim if the DC/SC shows that the item was delivered.
USPS INS will process/pay such claims.
Having been burned by the "private insurance" used by some large card
sellers, I would NEVER again do biznez with those sellers.
......................
It is often said here - in regard to EBAY/PayPal transactions - "Insurance
is for the benefit of the seller, UNLESS a misdelivered item is shown as
'delivered' by DC/SC."
Because of the notoriously incompetent "relief carrier" scheme used by
USPS, it would be a HUGE mistake for PSA - and their customers - to rely
on "private insurance" to cover their shipments. >>
I rechecked my label--it simply says e/usps signature confirmation and the tracking number also doesn't show any mention of insurance. When I've printed out insured labels, the tracking and the label both stated that the package was insured. Also, I doubt the submission prices would have decreased for the coin guys if they were paying usps insurance rates.
Misdelivery issues for dc and sc are night and day. DC simply involves someone scanning a bar code, possibly before the package was even brought to the residence. SC involves a live person signing for a package, and as far as I know every signature is recorded.
The last usps claim I filed took two months and that was with the tracking showing that it was undelivered. I hate to think how long it would take if it showed up as delivered.
<< <i>I am unaware of ANY "private insurance carrier" that will process/pay an INR-claim if the DC/SC shows that the item was delivered. >>
U-pic.com will. The only claim I ever submitted to them was for a package that was confirmed delivered. It was for $200-300, and u-pic paid it no questions asked, and quickly. I submitted it online and had a check within days.
On the other hand, I filed a $50 claim with the USPS once, and I had to jump through all sorts of hoops to get my money. It took weeks to get the cash, too. It wasn't worth the time I spent on it.
Vintage Football Card Gallery
Likely indicates non-USPS "insurance."
"Misdelivery issues for dc and sc are night and day. DC simply involves someone scanning a bar code, possibly before the package was even brought to the residence. SC involves a live person signing for a package, and as far as I know every signature is recorded."
While SC is a stronger aggravator against a successful claim, it is, in
practice, far from night/day.
USPS claims are processed/paid everyday in cases where a carrier
signed for items OR where UA-third-parties signed for items.
"The last usps claim I filed took two months and that was with the tracking showing that it was undelivered. I hate to think how long it would take if it showed up as delivered."
That claims experience is not typical. The process is generally fast, fair,
and provides for multiple levels of appeals to adverse decisions.
The USPS is fully aware that the DC "proves" little. They routinely pay
claims when the DC mistakenly shows delivery. When a "relief carrier"
is shown to be involved, such claims are near slam-dunks.
Based on my personal experiences - and those related by associates -
"private insurance" is a grossly inferior product when compared to
USPS insurance.
practice, far from night/day.
USPS claims are processed/paid everyday in cases where a carrier
signed for items OR where UA-third-parties signed for items.
I'm not talking about the claim process. It's night and day because it's easier to prove that a signature was forged by a carrier than it is to prove that a carrier scanned a dc label and put it in a wrong box. One actually has physical evidence. Then the consumer can request that the online status be updated to show non-delivery.
"<< I am unaware of ANY "private insurance carrier" that will process/pay an INR-claim if the DC/SC shows that the item was delivered. >>
U-pic.com will. The only claim I ever submitted to them was for a package that was confirmed delivered. It was for $200-300, and u-pic paid it no questions asked, and quickly. I submitted it online and had a check within days.
////////////////////////////////
That is good news.
Coverage Rules
While there is no specific mention of the DC circumstance, it is ONLY
reasonable that ANY legit provider would at the very least "accept for
processing" claims arising from wrongly issued DC/SC-tickets.
The sellers that have burned me, have simply refused to submit the
claim to their provider, stating, "Our carrier will not process such claims."
This U-PIC provision is fun:
"...In the event the carrier admits to fraudulent activity from carrier employees, the insured
will take action against the carrier and not hold U-PIC responsible for claims associated...."
While U-PIC excludes some types of items, cards are not noted as being excluded.
Their service seems like it is often used in conjunction with USPS INS.
.........
My question is, is it given automatically, or does the consumer have to proactively pursue the credit?
This doesn't pass the smell test.
Only an idiot would have a message board signature.
mailbox at my residence . No deliveries come here , to the PO only.
Always looking for Chipper Jones cards.
Im a very focused collector of cards from 1909 - 2012...LOL
<< <i>It looks like PSA *did* make an announcement, as I found it on www.psacard.com. under "Market Report and News". Clicking on the articile gives the details, and shows an announcement date of February 16th.
You would think that PSA people would post it in places like here where people are more likely to see it. >>
This is where usually i would retort with a political joke about how Congress buries pork on a bill about 200 pages in. But i won't.
but I am pleased with this change.
I've been shipping/buying for 11 years and I've had a total of ONE package lost in transit, and I've never used registered.
Meanwhile, I've been sick and tired of waiting 2-3 weeks for an UNTRACKABLE registered package from PSA. This new INSURED priority mail flat rate box means I get my cards quicker with the same insurance protection as before. Only now, I get them 20 days faster AND I can get online and find where they are in transit. I get my cards faster, I can sell them faster, which means I can make additional purchases quicker, and get subs in more frequently.
Works for me
Bravo PSA
why don't you just get a PO box? Not just for your PSA packages, but for all the other stuff you buy as well.
Problem solved, for around $50 a year
~WalterSobchak
<< <i>Meanwhile, I've been sick and tired of waiting 2-3 weeks for an UNTRACKABLE registered package from PSA. This new INSURED priority mail flat rate box means I get my cards quicker with the same insurance protection as before. Only now, I get them 20 days faster AND I can get online and find where they are in transit. I get my cards faster, I can sell them faster, which means I can make additional purchases quicker, and get subs in more frequently.
Works for me
Bravo PSA >>
I heard that!! My last shipment took 2 weeks to get back from PSA from the time it was "shipped"! Plus I'm sick of chasing my package at the Post Office because they won't leave it at my house due to signature confirmation. I work 8am to 5pm. The Post Office is open from 8:30am to 5pm. Every time I have to pick up a package from the PO, I have to take time off of work. If I sign the little pink slip for the package to be dropped off, it takes an additional three days for the package to be left at my house. I'm hoping this new change will shorten the delivery time, and allow the mailman to leave it on my door step.