The first step is to determine which cards you want to submit for grading. Only send in cards that you believe could potentially grade as gem mint (PSA 10) or near gem mint (PSA 9) condition. Sending in obviously lower grade cards will just be a waste of money. Take a close look at each card under good lighting and examine it for any flaws, scratches, dings, centering issues, etc. That will help you decide which have the best chance at the top grades.
Once you’ve selected the cards, you’ll need to purchase shipping supplies from PSA. They offer various submission package options depending on how many cards you want to grade. The packages include custom-cut cardboard holders, magnetic sheets to secure the cards in the holders, ID labels, and return boxes. You can purchase these online through the PSA website.
When your submission materials arrive, it’s time to prepare the cards. Place each card into its own cardboard holder. Make sure the card is centered both vertically and horizontally under the opening. Then securely affix it in place using the provided magnetic sheet. Fill out an identifier label for each card listing the player, year, set, and any other relevant details. Attach the label to the back of the holder below the card.
Once all your cards are cleanly and securely packed into holders with labels attached, it’s time to package them for shipping. Place the holders into the provided return box sequentially in their labeled order. Fill any empty space with shipping approved packing material like bubble wrap or air bags to prevent rattling during transit. Then seal up the box securely with clear shipping tape on all seams.
Print your prepaid shipping label or drop the box off at a PSA authorized shipping center. They offer discounted rates through Fedex or UPS. Be sure it’s sent with tracking and insured for the total declared value of your cards.
Upon receipt at PSA, your submission will be logged in and assigned a submission number. From there it will enter the grading process. PSA has strict standards and each card is carefully inspected under magnification by multiple experienced graders. They examine factors like centering, corners, edges, surface, and appearance. Any flaws affect the numerical grade from 1-10.
Once grading is complete, the turnaround time averages 2-4 months depending on submission volume and service level selected. But PSA can take upwards of 6-12 months for bulk orders or economy service during busy periods. You’ll receive an email notification when your graded cards return.
The cards will come back in new plastic display holders labeled with the PSA grade, your submission number for tracking, and a unique certificate number for each card. Review the grades closely and check they match your cards and labels. Although re-consideration is possible for obvious errors, PSA grades are not guaranteed and their decision is final.
Any questions about the return can be directed to PSA customer service for clarification. They aim to resolve issues professionally. With careful preparation and realistic expectations of turnaround, using PSA is the gold standard way for serious collectors to authenticate, grade, and slab iconic vintage and modern basketball cards destined for long-term preservation and investment. Let me know if any part of the process requires further explanation.
