PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) is considered the gold standard for third-party grading and authentication of trading cards, including baseball cards. Getting cards professionally graded by PSA can help verify authenticity and protect the condition, while also potentially increasing the card’s value.

The first step is to choose which cards you want to submit to PSA. Make sure to only submit high quality, mint condition cards that you believe could grade well. Grading is most worthwhile for rare, vintage, or high value cards. Condition is key, so inspect cards closely under bright light and a loupe for any flaws, folds, scratches or edge wear that could negatively impact the grade.

Once you’ve selected the cards, you’ll need to officially register with PSA. Go to PSAcard.com and click “Submit Cards” then “Register.” You’ll create a profile with contact and payment information. Be sure to verify your email address which is needed for account activation. PSA offers a variety of submission service levels depending on your needs and desired turnaround times.

Next, you’ll need to properly prepare each card for encapsulation. Carefully remove it from any toploaders, sleeves or other storage. Don’t touch the surface – handle cards only by the edges. Clean any fingerprints, dirt or residue from the surface using a soft brush or microfiber cloth. The surface must be pristine for an accurate grade.

Once clean, place each card in an individual plastic PSA slab label holder. These protect the surfaces and provide identification after grading. They are available from PSA or many card shops and hobby stores. Fill out the card details – year, sport, set and any identifying numbers – on the label accurately using a pencil. Double check this information is correct.

After labeling, cards can be organized and packed securely for shipping to PSA. Protection is key here to avoid any possible damage or fingerprints en route. Place cards in a toploader or penny sleeve, then inside a team bag. Use plenty of packing material like bubble wrap or air pillows to cushion. Seal boxes well using strapping tape to prevent any shifting during transit.

You’ll then need to print your PSA shipping label from your account and affix it prominently to the shipping box before sending your submission to their authentication center. Be sure to include any paperwork, order forms and payment as required for your selected tier. PSA offers insurance for shipping if desired. Once received, PSA will begin the authentication, grading and encapsulation process.

After grading, PSA will carefully seal each slab holding the encapsulated card inside with the assigned numerical grade clearly visible on the label. Cards are then returned to you along with a full report of the grades, usually within the stated turnaround period depending on volume and tier selected. Be sure tracking information is provided to monitor delivery.

Upon receipt, check all slabs carefully against the report for accurate details and grades. PSA guarantees authenticity and condition so you can now trust the card’s quality and value based on the assigned grade. Properly stored and well cared for PSA slabs holding high graded cards can increase significantly in worth over time, making the up-front investment well worthwhile. Enjoy your newly certified collection!