There are several third-party grading companies that professionally grade and encapsulate sports cards to determine their condition and authenticity. The three largest and most respected companies are Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), Beckett Grading Services (BGS), and Hockey Card Grader (HGC).
To submit cards for grading, you will need to create an account on the grading company’s website. Most companies require a membership or subscription fee to submit cards. When you create your account, be sure to verify your name and address, as this is how your graded cards will be returned to you.
Once you have an account, you can begin preparing your cards to submit. Carefully examine each card under good lighting and make sure there are no flaws, creases, corners, or edges that could negatively impact the grade. High grade cards in Near Mint or better condition usually fetch the highest prices from collectors. You’ll want to submit your best condition cards.
The grading companies have different submission types and fee structures depending on the turnaround time. Most popular is the economy bulk submission, which has a lower per card fee but can take 4-6 months to grade and return. For higher priority cards, you can opt for express submission types that are graded and returned much faster, but have a higher per card cost. Choose the submission type based on your needs and budget.
When you’re ready, login to your grading account and enter each card you want to submit into the online submission form. Be sure to accurately describe each card, including the player, year, set, and any identifying markings on the back. You’ll need to assign each card a specific grade estimate as well, such as PSA 9 or BGS 9.5. Getting the grade estimate close will help the graders evaluate each card properly.
Print out the computer-generated submission forms and packing lists. Place each card in a penny sleeve protector with the submission form folded and placed behind the card. For bulk submissions, cards are usually packed 50 to a plastic card holder, which is then boxed up. Be extremely careful when packing – the graders will note any shipping damage on the label.
Include payment as instructed based on your selected submission tier and number of cards. The most common payment methods are credit cards or money orders/checks. Print out shipping labels and pack and mail your submission to the grading company using a tracked shipping method with insurance.
Once received, the grading company will log in your submission, inspect for damage, and distribute cards to the grading team. You will receive regular status updates online as cards are graded. When complete, your graded and encapsulated cards will be returned along with a detailed invoice listing the individual grades assigned to each card.
Carefully inspect your returned cards for any shipment damage. Contact the grading company immediately if you notice issues. encased cards protect the condition but some prefer to crack slabs open to personally view graded cards, though this voids the grade. Resealable slabs are an option with some companies. Enjoy your professionally certified graded sports cards!
The key steps are choosing a grading company, setting up an account, carefully preparing cards with estimates, choosing a submission tier, packing and mailing your order, tracking status updates, and finally receipt of your freshly graded and protected collectible cards. Going through a respected third party service provides authentication, preservation, and added value that helps when reselling graded cards to other collectors. With careful preparation and handling, the grading process ensures certified high grades that boost card value long term.
