The first step to getting baseball cards professionally graded is to choose a grading company. The three most prominent companies are PSA, BGS (Beckett Grading Services), and SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation). Each company has their own standards and population reports, so it’s a good idea to research each one to determine which best fits your needs.
Once you’ve chosen a grading company, you will need to purchase the appropriate submission service for sending your cards in to be graded. Typically the submission options are bulk, standard, and express service levels depending on the turnaround time desired. Be sure to check the company website for their most up to date submission guidelines, fees, and service level options. It’s also a good idea to contact the company directly if you have any questions about the submission process.
Next, you will need to properly package your cards to ensure they are adequately protected during shipping and handling. Most grading companies provide free submission holders/bags/boxes that are specifically designed for their process. At a minimum, your cards should be places in hard plastic or penny sleeves before being placed inside a top loader or other rigid case. Soft sleeves alone are not sufficient. The graded cards will be returned to you in the submission holder.
When preparing your cards to submit, it is essential that you thoroughly clean them first. Even minor dirt, fingerprints or debris could negatively impact the assigned grade. Professional grading standards demand pristine surfaces. Use a microfiber cloth or specialty card cleaning solution/fluid and carefully wipe both sides of each card. Allow them to fully dry before packaging for submission.
You will also need to fill out a detailed submission form listing all the cards you are sending along with their identifying information like the player, year, set, and card number. The form should match the exact contents of your submission package. Clearly writing small details like this is important for accurate matching upon return. Photocopying the completed form for your records is also advised.
Assemble your submission package following all the guidelines provided by the grading company. You want it to be a professional, organized presentation that clearly displays your cards and matches your submitted form. Use the provided boxes/baggies and include payment (options like check, money order or PayPal usually exist). Trackable insured shipping is highly recommended, especially for valuable submissions.
Once received, the grading process can take anywhere from a couple weeks to several months depending on the selected service level. Companies work to expedite turnaround times, but hobby demand fluctuations can impact estimated return dates. You will be notified by email when your graded cards are ready to ship back to you. Typical quality assurance checks are also in place throughout the grading process.
Upon return, inspect your freshly slabbed cards for any signs of damage during transit. Hold them up to a light to ensure there are no smudges or debris visible between the plastic slabs. Contact the grading company promptly about any issues. Log your new certified graded baseball cards with photographs and detailed descriptions in your collection database for future reference of the assigned numerical grade.
With some planning and care, getting your valuable cards professionally graded by one of the leading authentication/grading services can both protect and significantly increase their value long term as verified and certified collectibles. Following all submission guidelines closely will help ensure your experience goes as smoothly as possible from start to finish. With a bit of patience, your prized cards can now be enjoyed and displayed with the respected grading label.
