Adorama used UPS Expedited (no brokerage on that one) when I ordered via them. I'm assuming it's insured, but I don't know. I can't remember what B&H used, but generally these people use a decent courier service, as they tend to deal with high-cost items.

Both Adorama and B&H are very reputable. I'm sure if something arrived damaged, they'd sort it out. Things are packaged well, with bubble-wrap kind of stuff around your fragile components. It's as safe as how it gets shipped to them or to your local retailer.