The three largest and most reputable professional sports card grading companies are Beckett Grading Services (BGS), Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), and Hit Parade Grading (HPG). All three companies have physical locations where you can drop off your cards to be graded in person, though submitting by mail is more common for most collectors.
The first step is to select the cards you want to submit for grading. Make sure each card is encased in a standard cardboard holder or plastic case to protect it. Cards must be in pristine condition with no creases, bends, damage, or wear to receive the highest grades. Choose your best vintage and modern cards to potentially increase their value.
Next, you’ll need to register for a user account on the grading company’s website. This allows you to submit orders, track turnaround times, and view completed grades online. Be prepared to provide personal details like your name, address, payment method, and shipping info. Most websites have tutorials to help with account setup.
Once registered, you can start assembling card submission orders. Carefully list each individual card along with its identifying details like the year, sport, player, and any special parallel variations. Be very accurate, as mistakes could delay the grading process. Companies have order maximums typically ranging from 10-100 cards.
Payment is required upfront for all ordered submissions. You’ll select the specific grading service level, which determines turnaround speed and cost. The most basic economy service is around $10-$15 per card, while express options under a week cost $20-$30. Expedited 1-2 day service pushes $50 or more per card. Always check for membership discounts too.
Now you’re ready to package everything up neatly and securely for transport. Most companies require cards be shipped in a hard plastic holder or rigid case to prevent bending. Surround cards with soft material like paper or foam to avoid damage. Don’t overload submissions either. Clearly label the outside of each shipment with your order/account details.
From here, you have two transport options – mail it in or submit in person. Mailing is simpler but risks travel damage or delays. To hand-deliver, schedule an appointment on the company website and visit their grading center during business hours. Arrive with your pre-paid, pre-registered order exactly as specified.
At both mail-in and in-person drop offs, staff will inspect shipments against paperwork for accuracy. They’ll issue a receipt as cards enter the grading process. From this stage, turnaround times vary depending on the selected service level. Busy periods may extend waits by a few extra days.
When grading is complete, the company notifies you to retrieve the shipment or provides a mail-back tracking number. Now you can finally view the graded results! Cards earn numerical designations from 1-10 based on centering, corners, edges and surface quality compared to pristine samples. Holders clearly display the grade, your user ID and a tamper-proof hologram for verification of authenticity.
Lastly, go online to see how the assigned grades impact each card’s estimated market value. High numbers of 8, 9 or 10 can multiply prices ten times over or more for the right vintage rookies or rare inserts. Carefully store new slabs in a temperature controlled showcase for long-term preservation and potential future resale. The in-person grading experience, while demanding more logistical effort, allows submitting collectors the personal touch of directly interacting with representatives and ensuring proper handling of their valuable collectibles throughout the process. With insurance for replacement value, hand-delivery remains a secure grading option for especially pricey cards.
