The first step in the process of getting baseball cards graded is to select which grading service you want to use. The three largest and most reputable services are Beckett Grading Services (BGS), Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), and Hit Parade Grading (HPG). Each service examines cards differently and has its own grading scale, so it’s important to understand their methodology.

Once you’ve selected a service, you’ll need to register an account on their website if you don’t already have one. This involves providing some basic contact and billing information. The next step is to choose your grading submission method. Most services offer regular and economy submission options with different turnaround times and costs. Regular provides the fastest return typically within 30 days while economy can take 90 days but is cheaper.

Now you’ll need to carefully package your cards for submission. It’s crucial they are shipped safely and securely to avoid any damage in transit. Cards should be placed in rigid holders like penny sleeves or toploaders, and then surrounded by additional padding like paper or bubble wrap inside a solid cardboard mailer. Consider Registered Mail through the USPS for tracking and insurance.

On the grading service’s website, you’ll enter details for each individual card in your group submission like the player, year, set/issue and any noteworthy flaws or uniqueness. Be as detailed as possible here. You’ll then generate shipping labels and pay for the grading service. Prices vary per card but average $10-20 each depending on the tier chosen.

Once received, the cards go through a meticulous authentication and grading process. Experienced graders examine various aspects under bright lighting like centering, corners, edges and surface for any flaws or impairments. They will then assign a numerical grade on a scale, such as 1-10 for BGS or 1-10 for PSA. Slabbing involves securely encapsulating the card in a tamper-proof plastic case with the assigned grade clearly visible.

After grading, you’ll receive an email notification that your submission is complete. From there it’s shipped back to you, typically within the original estimated turnaround timeframe provided grades weren’t requested to be “hold for attribution” which takes more research. You can then track the return package on the shipping label.

Upon receiving back the graded cards, take time to admire the slabs and newfound protection for your investments. Carefully store them for long-term preservation of condition. Graded cards now have established professional quality assurance that helps lead to transparent pricing in the collecting marketplace. The grading process, while detailed, lends authenticity, authentication and standardized condition assessment.

Choosing a reputable service, carefully preparing cards for shipment, thoroughly detailing each for grading consideration, patiently awaiting return shipment with results – following this process helps baseball collectors properly authenticate, conservatively preserve, and impartially qualify the condition and value of their cherished cardboard pieces of history. With third-party impartiality and standardization, the hobby becomes all the more enjoyable and collectibles even more worthwhile investments.