To properly grade baseball cards in Florida, there are a few important steps you must take to make sure your cards are preserved and authenticated. The grading process adds value to cards by verifying their condition and history. But it is essential to use a reputable and experienced company to grade your cards.
The top three grading companies for baseball cards are Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), Beckett Grading Services (BGS), and Hobby Entertainment Authentication (HEA). These companies have stringent grading standards and maintain databases of previously graded cards for authentication. Their slabs and labels provide a seal of authenticity that buyers trust.
To submit cards to PSA, BGS, or HEA for grading, you will need to set up an account on their websites. Read through the submission guidelines carefully to understand the grading tiers and costs. Basic bulk submissions are cheaper but get less evaluation time. More expensive express tiers return grades faster. You’ll need to package your cards properly in cardboard holders to avoid damage in transit.
When ready, log into your account and enter details for each individual card like the player, year, set/issue and any notable identifying markings. Then print and include the submitter form with your shipment. Cards should be sent in a thick cardboard box with ample packing material to cushion them. You are responsible for insuring the value in case of loss or damage during shipping.
The grading company will carefully examine each card under strong magnification lights and a loupe or microscope. Graders consider centering, corners, edges and surfaces for signs of wear when determining the numerical grade from 1-10. Even minor flaws can drop a grade. Additional authenticating tests may be done using advanced imaging, weights or chemical analysis.
Within a few weeks for bulk submissions or just days for express, your graded cards will be returned to you securely packaged in the company’s protective slabs with labels displaying the assigned grade. Hold onto submission paperwork showing your assigned card numbers for proof of authenticity later if needed.
Once graded, you can sell the authenticated cards individually on online marketplaces like eBay or through local card shops and shows. Top graded rookies or vintage cards can be consigned to major auction houses. You’ll get the best prices presenting the slabbed cards still in the protective outer box they were shipped back in.
To properly grade baseball cards in Florida and maximize their value, use a leading accredited company, submit via their detailed online process, carefully package the cards, await the independent examination and assigned grades, then showcase and sell the authenticated slabs. Grading adds verification that buyers trust when spending top dollar on mint vintage or rookie cards.
