Baseball cards have been a popular collectible for over a century. With so many cards from different eras and players being collected, the condition and grade of each card plays an important role in its value. For serious collectors looking to build a valuable collection or sell individual cards, having cards professionally graded is essential. This process is called card grading. While there are a few national companies that offer grading services, having cards graded locally can be more convenient. Here is an in-depth look at baseball card grading services available near many collectors.
One of the most trusted third-party authentication and grading companies is Professional Sports Authenticator, commonly known as PSA. While they are based in California, PSA has authorized local dealers all over the country who can submit cards on a collector’s behalf to be graded. Finding a PSA Authorized Dealer near you is easy on their website by simply searching your zip code or city. Dealers will guide you through the submission process, package your cards securely, and ship them off to PSA’s headquarters. A few weeks later, the cards return encased in protective slabs marked with their official PSA grade. Going through an authorized PSA dealer is reassuring for collectors, as all submissions are handled according to PSA’s strict standards.
Another major national grader is Beckett Grading Services, known by their acronym BGS. Similar to PSA, BGS has a network of official submission centers across the U.S. that collectors can utilize. These BGS Official Submission Centers are local hobby shops and collectible dealers fully trained on BGS standards and procedures. They will accept cards for bulk submission, which offers a discounted group rate. Within 4-6 weeks, the cards return securely packaged with their official BGS grade noted on protective plastic holders. Going local through a BGS Center streamlines the process and ensures proper care of the cards through the entire grading workflow.
For collectors seeking a faster turnaround or not wanting to send cards through the mail, there are also local independent grading services available. Many experienced hobby shop owners who have graded thousands of cards over the years have started their own independent grading businesses. While not carrying the name recognition of PSA or BGS, independent graders can still provide a knowledgeable assessment of condition and signage. Turnaround times tend to be much quicker as well, often just a few business days. Cards will be encapsulated in third-party slabs clearly marked with the independent grader’s stamp of approval. This is a good lower-cost option for casual collectors just wanting a condition assessment.
Some local coin and collectible shops have staff graders who will inspect cards brought in and assign verbal condition assessments. While not encapsulated, getting an expert’s on-site opinion can help value rare finds or identify problem areas requiring full professional grading. These shops often have membership programs where card grading services are included for a monthly or yearly fee. For collectors on a budget just starting out, utilizing local shop graders offers a free way to learn about conditions. Over time, valuable cards can then be submitted for formal third-party grading.
Whether choosing national leaders like PSA and BGS or independent local options, the key benefits of baseball card grading are consistency and protection of value. A professional numeric grade gives collectors and sellers a standardized way to compare condition across different eras and players. Encasing cards in protective holders also preserves them long-term from risk of damage. For serious collectors, building a collection of professionally graded vintage and modern cards will help maintain the long-term value of their investment. With card grading services now available through authorized dealers, submission centers and independent experts locally, there has never been an easier way to get high-quality authentication and preservation for any collection.
