How To Get a Card Graded

A pile of baseball cards ready to be graded.

Card collecting as a hobby has evolved rapidly over the years. The industry is no longer dominated by excited children opening packs of bubble gum or boxes they saved up their allowance for—instead, people of all ages and backgrounds search for rare finds, exclusive short-prints, and other valuable sports trading cards they can sell online or keep as a future investment.

While the player’s popularity and type of card play a large role in determining its value, the physical condition of the card is also crucially important. Understanding how sports trading cards are graded and how to get a card graded is an important step for any collector looking to sell. 

This step-by-step guide from KO Storage will explain the process of collector card grading and provide tips for storing your collection.

What Is Card Grading?

Card grading is the process of evaluating a trading card’s condition and authenticity. This practice began in the late 20th century as trading cards began to sell for more and more. Over time, trustworthy organizations established standardized grading systems to help collectors determine the value of cards, comic books, and more collectibles based on centering, corners, and overall quality.

Getting your cards graded adds legitimacy to the value of your asset. A professionally graded card will always fetch a higher price in the market than an ungraded card, as buyers trust the standards of the grader. Whether you’re starting an online store from your apartment or looking to clear out an old collection, knowing how to get baseball cards graded can transform your hobby into a profitable endeavor.

How Are Baseball Cards Graded?

Many experienced collectors don’t even know how baseball cards are graded, as it’s a detailed process. Professional grading companies look at criteria that cover the card’s overall presentation value and quality. These categories are:

  • Centering. The alignment of the image on the card should be perfectly consistent.
  • Corners. Sharp, undamaged corners indicate a properly cared-for card.
  • Edges. Clean and smooth edges are essential to receive a high grade.
  • Surface. The card’s surface is examined for scratches, stains, or printing defects.

Each element is carefully evaluated and assigned a numerical grade, typically on a scale of 1-10. In most cases, a perfect 10 is known as a Gem Mint. Understanding these metrics is crucial for any collector looking to learn how to get a card graded professionally.

Preparing Your Cards for Grading

Before you send your card off to be graded, inspect it for damage like scratches or discoloration, and gently wipe it off with a microfiber cloth. Place cards in protective sleeves and cases to keep them safe during transit, and follow the company’s guidelines to ensure a smooth process. Along with shipping costs, you should also anticipate paying around $20-30 per card you want to be graded, though that number may be higher for more valuable cards.

Where To Get Cards Graded

Once your cards are prepared, it’s time to choose a grading company. There are several services available, though the name recognition of the main companies can carry weight as they have a reputation for holding high standards.

Professional Sports Authenticators (PSA)

PSA is the most trusted name in card grading. They follow a rigorous and reliable process to properly determine the value of a card.

Beckett Card Grading Services (BGS)

Beckett is another leading option. They are appreciated by many for their sub-grades and premium services, and their magazines are collected by many.

Other Collector Card Grading Services

There are several other grading services out there, such as CGC, SGC, and ISA, but their reputations and impact on value can fluctuate. For the highest credibility and resale potential, it may be best to stick with PSA or Beckett.

How Long Does It Take To Get a Card Graded?

How long it takes to get a card graded depends on the company and the service level you choose. Standard PSA or Beckett services typically take 4-8 weeks, while paying for expedited options can return your cards in a few days. However, demand can impact turnaround times, so always check current estimates before submitting your cards.

Highest Value Graded Cards

Almost every major card sale has been influenced by grading. While not every card is a gem mint, earning a high grade is especially important for older cards, as they’re more likely to have been bent or worn down over time. Here’s a list of the most expensive sports cards ever sold:

Card Collection Maintenance Tips

To help your collection its value, it’s key that you follow proper storage protocols. Storing collectibles, musical instruments, and other sensitive items in a climate-controlled storage unit can help avoid weather-related issues like fading and discoloration. Using sleeves and UV-protected cases can also shield your cards from sunlight, scratches, and spills, and organizing them into binders or recycled cardboard boxes can help you move them.

When handling your cards, ensure your hands are clean and dry to prevent transferring oils, dirt, or moisture. Hold them by the edges to minimize contact and reduce the risk of smudging or creasing, and for particularly valuable or rare cards, consider wearing cotton gloves. When moving your collection, take precautions to not bend or shake any boxes. 

Rent Collectible Storage From KO Storage

If you can’t keep your collection at home, don’t worry—KO Storage is here to help! Use one of our secure storage facilities as your collection’s central hub and save yourself the trouble of leaving cards around your living space. With climate-controlled storage units available in many sizes and secure insurance options, you can feel confident about storing your collection with us.

Get started today! Find a KO Storage facility near you and begin storing your card collection.

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