The major companies that offer third-party grading services for sports cards are Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), Beckett Grading Services (BGS), Sportscard Guaranty LLC (SGC), and Certified Authentic (CA). These companies employ expert graders who will thoroughly inspect each card and assign a numeric grade based on its condition and appearance.
To submit cards to one of these grading companies, you will need to set up an account on their website if you don’t already have one. Then you can log in and start an order. Each company has specific submission guidelines you need to follow regarding packaging, payment methods, bulk versus single card orders, and membership tiers. For a standard single card order you will need to secure the card in a plastic sleeve and then place it inside a standard business-sized envelope.
When putting together your order, you’ll need to create a submission form listing details for each card like the sport, year, set/issue, and any other relevant identifiers. You’ll also need to specify which grading service you want, as options range from a basic authentication and grade to more extensive examination and encapsulation of the card in a protective plastic slab. Grading services usually cost $10-20 per card depending on turnaround time and level of analysis needed.
Once your order is processed and payment clears, the grading company will remove each card from its protective holder and inspect it under high intensity lighting and magnification tools. Graders look at factors like centering, corners, edges, and surface quality to determine the grade based on a numerical scale. For example, PSA uses a 1-10 scale where a 1 is poor condition and a 10 is flawless gem mint.
After the physical examination, your cards will be assigned grades and encapsulated if you chose that option. Encapsulation protects cards in plastic slabs for long-term preservation while also preventing future alterations. These slabs also clearly display the assigned grade for future buyers or collectors to easily verify authenticity and condition.
Within the estimated turnaround period, which can vary from a few weeks to months depending on volume, your now graded cards will be returned to you. Standard submissions are sent back in sortable boxes for you to review the new certified grades and inspect encapsulation quality. High-value card orders may merit special security packaging and tracking as well during shipment.
The certification, grading, and authentication provided by companies like PSA, BGS, SGC, and CA adds tremendous value by providing impartial verification that enhances your cards’ worth to discerning collectors. While there is an upfront cost to the service, properly graded vintage cards in high demand often command significantly higher sales prices compared to raw ungraded equivalents. Whether you plan to sell your collection or display your cards as valuable assets, third party grading is a worthwhile investment for important finds in your collection.
With the proper planning and by following submission guidelines closely, you can feel confident trusting your beloved sports cards to the top authorities in the industry. With care taken in selecting the right grading service and options and by packing securely for transit, your collectibles are in capable hands. With some patience through the analysis process, you’ll soon receive your officially certified cards that hold exponentially more significance and value thanks to the trusted stamp of approval provided by the major graders.
