Binder or toploader? How to store and ship Pokémon cards

You’ve pulled a really great card. Should it go into a binder, get a toploader, or be set aside for grading? Here, we go through which protection fits when—and how to pack cards that are being shipped.

Binder, toploader, or semi-rigid?

A binder with a zipper is not automatically a toploader binder. It should state that the pockets fit toploaders. Graded cards in hard cases, often called slabs, also require special storage.

How large a binder do you need?

4-pocket, 9-pocket, and 12-pocket refer to four, nine, or twelve pockets on each page. How many cards the entire binder holds depends on the number of sheets. Use the total capacity in the product description as a guide.

For example, a 9-pocket binder with 20 double-sided sheets holds 360 cards. That doesn't mean you should put two cards in every pocket; the front and back have their own spots.

Are you collecting a full set? Count the reverse holo variants and promos you want to include as well. Leave empty pockets for the cards you are missing, so you don't have to move everything around after your next opening.

Which sleeves fit in the binder?

Standard Pokémon cards should have standard-sized sleeves. However, not all sleeves have the same width. A spacious penny sleeve might fit well in a toploader but be too wide for a certain binder pocket.

Try it carefully with a less valuable card first. The card should slide in without bending, and the pocket should not be under tension. Double sleeving takes up more space and isn't necessary for every binder collection. In our size guide for sleeves, you can see the difference between penny sleeves, Perfect Fit, and sleeves for gaming.

How to pack Pokémon cards you have sold

The goal is for the card to stay still, be protected against bending, and be easy for the buyer to remove. For a single regular card, you can do the following:

1. Place the card in a clean sleeve. Hold it by the edges and never force it in by the corner.
2. Put the card in a suitable toploader. The card's thickness also matters. Do not put multiple cards in a protector intended for one.
3. Seal with a team bag. A resealable protector bag around the toploader helps keep the card in place. Keep glue and tape away from the card and sleeve.
4. Place sturdy cardboard on both sides. The cardboard should be larger than the protector. Fasten it around the package without pressing or bending it, and make it easy to open.
5. Choose outer packaging according to the contents. A padded envelope needs support inside. For multiple cards or more valuable cards, a sturdy box with cushioning is a better choice. Fill empty spaces so the contents don't move around.
6. Check the address and shipping method. Save photos of the card's condition and the packing. Choose tracking when necessary and check that the carrier's terms cover trading cards and the value you are sending.

You will find team bags and toploaders among our accessories. Bubble wrap cushions against impacts but does not replace a sturdy guard against bending.

Are the cards going to grading? Check the requirements first

Do not automatically pack in the same way as you would for a sale. The grading company, or the person submitting for you, may require a specific holder and order for the cards.

Do you want to understand the process before choosing cards? Read our guide to grading trading cards.

Three mistakes to avoid at home

• An overfilled binder. The pages should lie naturally and the zipper should close without pressure.
• Sun, moisture, and heavy objects on top. Store the collection in a dry and protected area, without pressing on the binder.
• Too small protectors. If you have to force it, it's time to check the size, not push harder.

Frequently asked questions