To ship cards to PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator), the foremost authority in third party card grading, you need to first prepare your cards properly. Make sure to only submit cards you believe are worthy of a high grade from PSA. Lower grade cards may not be worth the cost of grading.
Before packaging your cards, you need to register with PSA and create a submitter account. On their website, you can click “Submit Grading” and follow the prompts to set up an account. This will allow you to log in and track your submissions. It’s also necessary to refer to their fee structure to determine the cost of how many cards you wish to submit based on bulk and turnaround time options.
Once registered, it’s time to package your cards. You will need plastic holders that fit the standard size of trading cards (2.5 x 3.5 inches). PSA recommends using ultra-pro one-touch magnetic holders or toploaders. Very carefully insert each card into its individual holder so as not to cause any fingerprints, dings or other defects. The card needs to be accessible to the graders but protected for shipping.
After sleeving, you can then package your cards for shipment. Use a box or rigid mailer clearly labeled as containing trading cards. You want something sturdy with no loose packing materials that could shuffle cards around. PSA offers shipping kits but you can use your own as long as it meets USPS, UPS or FedEx requirements. Organize stacks of sleeved cards neatly inside with sticky notes identifying sets for order.
On each individual card sleeve, write the full name of the card and any memorable markings like serial numbers using a soft lead pencil. This identifies cards without risking damage. Order cards logically by set or year for easy processing. Also include a loading list matching the labels to streamline submission receipt. Seal and label the box for shipping.
Before sending, login to your PSA submitter account and create a shipping order. List each card individually with all identifying details and requested turnaround service. Print shipping labels and include payment as directed for your order total. Cards can only be authenticated once payment clears. You also need to properly package the order form, loading list and pre-paid shipping label inside the box.
Choose your shipping carrier (USPS, UPS or FedEx) and send the package with the appropriate amount of insurance based on the value of your collection. PSA recommends declaring the full insured value to avoid problems. Once received, PSA will log cards into their system. Graders then analyze each card for centering, corners, edges and surfaces before assigning the numerical grade.
After grading, PSA seals cards in plastic holders with the grade clearly displayed for protection. They then ship the box back to you along with the original order form listing individual grades. Log into your account to view digital images and full certification details of each graded card. With care at each step, this thorough preparation ensures smooth processing so you can proudly display authenticated sports memorabilia. Regular submitters may wish to join the PSA Member’s Club for additional services too.
Following PSA’s detailed submission guidelines closely leads to a positive grading experience every time. Their experienced team of authenticators have examined untold volumes of collectibles to provide baseball fans an objective valuation of condition universally trusted throughout the hobby. With the right presentation of prized cards, collectors can feel assured their treasures are in competent hands for preservation and authentication through the modern standard that is PSA grading.
