All collectors know the condition of
literature is important and, if it lasted this long
in good condition, keeping it in good condition is important.
Although we cannot control the handling and storage
of literature in your possession, we do try to provide
helpful information (See "Rob's
Tips"). When it comes to purchasing literature,
we try to involve ourselves by suggesting packing procedures.
We have received boxes where all four corners were smashed
in or seams split open with contents oozing out —
beautiful literature reduced to trash. Please discuss
packing and shipping with us before sending your "valuables".
If you have bought from us in the past you know we emphasize
that we set ourselves apart from other dealers and swapmeet
vendors by selling literature that is in excellent condition.
There are exceptions for rare or desirable literature
when we feel it needs to be offered. In such cases we
describe the problems it has. All literature is guaranteed
and we depend on our reputation for maintaining repeat
buyers. Our climate-controlled, dirt-free warehouse
doesn't even have windows (prevents fading).
This pristine literature needs to arrive in your hands
in the same condition it is sent. So how do we accomplish
this when there are obstacles like the U. S. Post Office,
U. P. S., FedEX and overseas carriers who couldn't care
less about what is inside the box?
We start with a new box. No envelopes — not even
padded envelopes. A postcard is not mailed in an envelope,
not even with cardboard reinforcement. It is mailed
in a small box — not a used box, but a small new
box. The most popular way to ship is by U. S. Postal
Service (USPS) Priority Mail and boxes are available
in several sizes to keep the weight and cost to a minimum.
Flat Rate Priority Mail boxes are frequently used when
books are shipped. The big advantages are speed and
a reliable Tracking Number system so that both shipper
and customer can use the USPS website to monitor the
movement of the package (even International packages!).
Boxes under thirteen (13) ounces can be shipped by First
Class Mail by request, which is less expensive, but
takes longer to arrive at the destination and cannot
be insured. USPS Express Mail and Federal Express shipping
are also available. Our goal is always to get your order
to you fast, cheaply and undamaged.
Most orders are shipped the same day as the order is
received, or the next day if received after postal pickup.
Confirmation e-mails are sent out at the same time.
The following photographs illustrate the steps we take
in packing an order:
Click
for larger view
1
Contents of a
box shipped within the
U. S. include:
a) literature, books and/or memorabilia ordered
b) invoice
c) credit card receipt (if applicable)
(NOTE: Invoices and receipts are not packed
with International shipments, but can be requested
by e-mail or mail.)
2
Packing materials
consist of cardboard backing, newspaper and
one or more plastic envelopes.
3
Literature and
cardboard reinforcement are placed inside
the plastic envelope.
4
Plastic envelope(s)
is tightly taped to protect the literature
from damage by water, insects, dirt, etc.
5
Crumpled newspaper
is used for padding and put on all six sides
of literature.
6
Priority
Mail shipping labels provide Tracking Numbers
and are easy to trace if your package is slow
in reaching its' destination.
