The major third-party grading companies for baseball cards include PSA, BGS (Beckett Grading Services), SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation), and HGA (HG Sports). Each company has their own specialization and reputation within the hobby.
PSA is generally considered the most stringent grader and the gold standard, as they have been grading cards the longest since the mid-1980s. They also tend to have the longest wait times, sometimes over a year for regular service levels. BGS is also well respected and was the first major competitor to PSA. SGC has grown in popularity in recent years for their somewhat faster turnaround times compared to PSA/BGS. HGA is the newest major grader but aims to be the fastest option.
In terms of the grading process, it usually begins by selecting the cards you wish to grade and researching the set and print run to understand how rare different grades might be. This will help manage expectations for the final grades. The cards should then be placed in hard plastic holders to send for protection.
Most grading companies recommend at a minimum using toploaders, which are thin hard plastic sleeves that cards can be securely placed in to avoid potential damage from being touched or rubbed during shipping and processing. Many people use laminated holders that are much more durable and secure than regular toploaders. Laminated holders usually cost $1-2 each but provide extra protection that may be worth it for valuable cards.
After selecting cards and putting them in holders, you will need to register an account on the grading company’s website. Most major graders offer different submission service levels ranging from economy bulk submissions up to higher tiers with express turnaround times and other bonuses. Make sure to research the various service level options and prices so you select the best fit.
The submission process usually involves logging into your account, creating a new order, and entering details for each individual card like the year, sport, player name, and any other relevant identifiers. You can also include notes to request special autograph authentication or other specialty services. Most companies charge a flat fee per card graded, usually $10-20 depending on factors like turnaround time and value of the cards.
Once all the card details are entered and you have selected a service level, you generate shipping labels and pack the cards securely in a ship-ready order. Most important is using a durable box, thick bubble wrap layers, and avoiding excess movement inside. The graded cards will be returned in the same box. You pay and ship off the order to the grading company.
From there, the cards will undergo the rigorous multi-point examination process where trained graders assess factors like centering, corners, edges, and surface for any flaws under high-powered lighting. They will also verify authenticity and assign numerical grades on the widely used 1-10 scale. Once graded, the cards are then encapsulated in protective slabs with the grades clearly labeled.
The biggest thing to monitor during the grading process is tracking your order status online. Most companies provide estimated turnaround dates upfront and updates as your order progresses through receipt, grading, and shipping back out. When complete, you will receive an email notification that your graded cards have been returned. Carefully open and inspect for any potential shipping damage issues before accepting the order.
Thoroughly photograph and document the graded cards for your records, as this helps if any issues arise down the road. From there, you can proudly display your new encapsulated vintage or modern baseball cards, or potentially consider reselling through online auction sites like eBay. Taking the time for the detailed grading process helps preserve card conditions and brings authentic third-party verification that is highly valued by serious collectors.
