Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to Card Catchers! Below are answers to the most common questions from our collector community.
Getting Started
What is Card Catchers?
Card Catchers is Chicago’s trusted Pokémon TCG marketplace where collectors can safely buy, sell, and trade cards with other collectors.
Do I need to be a seller to trade?
No. Trading is 100% free for everyone. You do not need a subscription or seller status to post or accept trades.
Is Card Catchers safe?
Yes. We have a zero-tolerance policy for fake or tampered cards and use The Sandwich Protocol™ to protect both parties during shipping.
Posting & Managing Trades
How do I post a trade?
Click “Post a Trade” on our site, fill out what you’re offering and what you’re looking for, upload photos, and submit. Your trade will go live immediately.
Can I edit or delete my trade after posting?
Yes. Log into your account and go to “My Trades” to edit or remove any active trade offers.
How long do trades stay active?
Trades remain active until you mark them as completed or delete them. We recommend updating or removing trades once you’ve found a match.
The Sandwich Protocol™ & Shipping
What is The Sandwich Protocol™?
It’s our protected shipping method designed to keep both parties safe. Cards are shipped in a way that prevents tampering and provides clear proof of condition upon arrival.
Who pays for shipping?
Shipping costs are agreed upon between the two collectors during negotiation. Most trades use tracked shipping.
How long does shipping usually take?
Most domestic trades arrive within 3–7 business days once shipped. International trades may take longer.
Authenticity & Grading
How do you prevent fake cards?
We have a zero-tolerance policy for counterfeit or altered cards. All trades are subject to our conservative grading standards, and suspicious listings are removed.
Do you grade cards?
We do not offer professional grading services, but we enforce strict authenticity standards and encourage collectors to use conservative grading when describing condition.
What if I receive a fake card?
Contact us immediately with photos. We will investigate and take appropriate action, including banning repeat offenders.
Fees & Payments
Is trading really free?
Yes. Posting trades, negotiating, and completing trades is completely free for all collectors.
Are there any fees at all?
Only optional paid tiers (Pro & Elite) exist for collectors who want extra perks like priority support, lower fees on future features, and advanced tools. Basic trading will always remain free.
Disputes & Returns
What if the other collector doesn’t ship?
We take non-delivery seriously. Repeated failure to ship will result in account suspension. Contact us if a trade goes unresponsive.
Can I cancel a trade after it’s been accepted?
Cancellations are allowed before shipping but must be communicated clearly to the other party. We encourage good communication between collectors.
Account & Seller Tiers
What are the Pro and Elite tiers?
These are optional paid memberships that give collectors extra tools, priority support, discounted supplies, and early access to new features. They are not required to trade.
Do I need a tier to sell cards?
No. Anyone can sell or trade on Card Catchers. The paid tiers simply offer convenience and extra benefits.
Still have questions?
Reach out to us anytime at support@cardcatchers.shop — we’re collectors too and happy to help.