Outline · [ Standard ] · Linear+ Tips for sending off a card to PSA

[ffman]

Hello folks! As most of you know I’ve been a collector for a long time (25 years or so). However, I’ve never sent a card off for grading.

One of my prized baseball card possessions is my 2011 Topps Update #175 Mike Trout RC. As the card continues to rise in value I’ve made the decision to get it graded, especially since Topps is beginning to make “reprints” now. I want to go through PSA. For those with experience with the grading process, what’s the simplest (and safest) way to send it off?

[Rabs]

Well I have PSA 10 of this card personally, here is a pic:



I would inspect your card also to see if you can find any flaws. Try to measure the centering from top to bottom and side to side. PSA is more lenient than BGS with centering so you can still get a PSA 10 even without pristine centering. Also inspect the surface closely under light to look for any marks and scratches. You really need to clean the card before sending off too with a microfiber cloth (like you would use to clean glasses). This wipes away any dust/dirt from the surface which can help the grade. Also inspect the edges and corners closely (using a loupe helps). Lastly, check the back of the card for condition as well.

Best practice is to write down any imperfections you find and that will help you understand what the grading companies look for over time.

As far as submitting, I would honestly recommend sending as part of a group submission instead of by yourself. Some people even offer to inspect/clean the card for you before sending it off for a price which can help improve the final grade. I have never sent in any cards myself to get graded, I always do it as a group sub. Many believe that sending a large amount of cards in a group helps overall grades of the cards as a whole, but there is no proof to that.

Hope that helps. Let me know if you have any other questions or want info on group subs.

[aceecards]

good luck, I have had no luck with self submissions to beckett

[ffman]

Thanks for the advice guys.