The Grading Process Simplified

The Grading Process Simplified

If you're new to the world of collectible card grading, welcome! This guide is designed to simplify the process and will brush through the steps. For a more detailed explanation feel free to read through my other blog posts. Whether you're grading for the sake of collecting or as a monetary investment, there’s a clear path to follow. Let’s dive in and break down everything from research to selling your graded cards.

Why Are You Grading?

Before you get started, think about your end goal:

  1. Collecting: If you’re grading to enhance your personal collection and appreciate the aesthetic of a professional slab, you might simply review various grading services and choose one whose slab design appeals to you. 
  2. Monetary Investment: If your aim is to increase the monetary value of your cards, you'll want to carefully select cards that are likely to fetch a premium grade and sell well. You will also need into consideration like cost of grading and other factors.

Step 1: Evaluate Your Patience and Capital

Grading can be a rewarding but time consuming and sometimes pricey pursuit. Ask yourself:

  1. Do you have the patience to wait through the grading process, which can range from a few weeks to several months?
  2. Do you have the capital to invest in grading fees, shipping insurance, and potential losses if a card doesn’t grade as high as expected?

If your answer is yes, move on. If not, it might be time to re-evaluate your strategy. If you're just grading for collecting purposes, you can skip monetary aspect of this step but if you want your slab back faster you may need to review each grading services timetable.


Step 2: Conduct Your Research

Start with the basics:

  1. Pick a Card You Already Own: This way, you avoid the temptation of keeping a card that might have significant sentimental value or want. 
  2. Or Choose a Popular Chase: If you don't have one yet, identify a card within your budget that’s trending or has a high demand.
  3. Value Assessment: Determine how much your chosen card is worth when graded as a 10 by different grading services, and be aware of lower grade outcomes (for example, how a card might drop in value if it comes back as a 9.5 or below).

Next, review population reports to understand how many copies of the card exist at various grade levels. A card with fewer high-grade examples might be more valuable and worth the investment. The population report can also tell you the popularity of the cards and give you a general understanding on how difficult the card is to grade.


Step 3: Understand What Graders Look For

Each grading service has its own criteria:

  1. Grader Standards: For example, Beckett’s BSG Black Label typically requires a perfect 50/50 centering to award a grade 10, while services like PSA or CGC may accept a centering range of 45/55 for a similar top grade.
  2. Condition Matters: Beyond centering, evaluators look at factors such as surface quality, edge wear, and corner sharpness. Familiarize yourself with these standards before sending your card in. For more detailed explanation feel free to give this blog a read.

Step 4: Finding Cards to Grade

There are several avenues to acquire grade-worthy cards:

  1. Online Marketplaces: Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and TCGPlayer often have competitive listings.
  2. Local Sources: Attend card shows or visit local game stores. These venues can offer great deals and sometimes even in-person grading consultations. You are also able to make in person observations of the cards you're to acquire.
  3. Avoid Breaking Open Packs: Although it’s tempting, breaking open packs is generally not recommended if you’re hunting for cards that will grade well and maintain high value. As you are not guaranteed to get the card in question and the condition of the card is also an unknown factor. Making it a very costly venture.

When browsing listings, look carefully at the photos. Use available tools or apps to check for things like centering and visible imperfections.


Step 5: Submitting Your Card for Grading

Once you’ve acquired a promising card:

Submission Methods:

  1. By Mail: Most grading companies accept mailed submissions.
  2. In-Person Drop-Offs: If you live near a grading office, this can expedite the process.
  3. Live Grading at Card Shows: Some shows host live grading services (although these often come with a premium cost).
  4. Retail Options: For example, GameStop sometimes offers submission services through partnerships with grading companies like PSA.

Carefully package your card to prevent any damage during transit.

Step 6: The Waiting Game

The turnaround time for grading depends on the service selected:

  1. Faster, More Expensive Options: If you’re in a hurry and willing to pay a little extra, some services offer expedited grading.
  2. Economical, Slower Options: More budget-friendly services can take considerably longer.

Patience is key. Once the grading is complete, you’ll receive your card back in a protective slab with its new grade.

Step 7: Selling Your Graded Cards

If your goal is to profit, selling is the next step:

Sales Platforms:

  1. Card Shows: Great for direct sales and even trades.
  2. Online Marketplaces: eBay, Mercari, or your own online store.
  3. Retail Buyers: Some game stores or chains like GameStop purchase graded cards.
  4. Peer to Peer: You can sell directly to another person. 

Remember to account for additional factors like seller fees, taxes, shipping costs, and the opportunity cost of having your capital locked in while waiting for a sale. Some slabs can sell quickly, but others might sit for a while before finding the right buyer.

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