1. Identify the exact selling route
A free postal label is not the same as a confirmed purchase price. Before sending, check whether you will receive a written estimate, a final offer after inspection, an itemised offer or a single bundled figure. Ask whether you can accept some items and decline others.
2. Understand the insurance stage by stage
Insurance wording often changes depending on whether the parcel is in transit, has arrived, is being assessed, or is being returned. Read claim deadlines and proof requirements before you post. For some valuables, Royal Mail policy points sellers toward the correct Special Delivery service rather than ordinary post.
3. Keep control of your own evidence
Record item descriptions in your own words. Photograph hallmarks, serial numbers, defects and packaging. If an item has a family note, receipt, service record, certificate or box, photograph that too. Keep these records outside the parcel.
4. Compare the offer fairly
Compare net figures, not headline claims. If a competitor says they can beat an offer, ask whether the comparison is like-for-like: same items, same photographs, same return terms, same timing and same deductions. Fair Vintage tries its best to beat genuine like-for-like offers where possible, but will also say if auction or another route may suit a special item better.
Practical checklist
The buyer should be able to explain
- How your parcel is identified when it arrives.
- Whether opening is photographed, videoed or otherwise documented.
- How loose jewellery, boxes and paperwork are kept together.
- What happens if you reject the offer.
- Who pays return postage and what cover applies.
- What proof is needed for any missing or damaged item claim.
Sources and fact-check record
Last reviewed 2026-10-10. This page is written as seller guidance, not legal advice and not a claim of endorsement by any cited organisation.
FAQ
Should I send photos before posting?
For mixed or high-value items, yes. Photos can help decide the safest route before anything leaves you.
Is a postal buyer always worse than auction?
No. Postal or direct buyers can be useful for certainty and speed; auction can be better for rare, signed or collector pieces.
Can Fair Vintage review an existing offer?
Yes. Share the genuine like-for-like offer and Fair Vintage will try its best to beat it where possible, while staying honest about route choice.