USPS OR UPS..what do you prefer??

If you're planning on shipping out of the country, USPS is pretty much a given. USE AUCTIVA'S INSURANCE. That's the best advice I can give. They'll cover items lost or damaged when sent to other countries, where USPS generally will not (unless you pay big bucks for Express). I insure all international shipments with U-PIC/Auctiva, without exception.

DO NOT use UPS or FedEx when shipping to Canada. Especially with heavy items, the rates to Canada are quite attractive with these services, and they will, of course, insure the first $100 of your shipment at no extra charge. However, your buyer may (probably will) be asked to pay hefty brokerage fees to UPS/FedEx for the privelege.