I was a letter carrier, and unless things have changed dramatically since I left in 2001, things don’t work like it has been described here.
For an insured package it is like any other type of insurance. Almost every claim is denied and they figure most people will just give up and walk away. No matter the carrier, it is always the same.
Registered gets paid out when packages are lost , that’s why it is so rare they get lost. It is also why it is so frustratingly slow. Anyone who touches them has to sign off.
It makes no sense to send valuables any other way than Registered and ALWAYS signature confirmation required.
If it is not signature confirmation you will not be covered if a home invader signs for your valuables.
But always know Registered is Vveeerrrryyyy Slooooowwww.
Just as a side note, we were told as carriers we were personally responsible for lost Registered mail and our paychecks would be attached until we paid back any losses. I would always check ID on a regi.