How to get a trading card graded

Professional grading means sending a card to a specialist that assesses authenticity and condition. Accepted cards are generally encapsulated in a protective holder with a label identifying the card and, depending on the service, a grade.

A grade reflects the company’s standards; it does not guarantee a particular market value or resale price.

Inspect the card in soft light on a clean surface. Check centering, corners, edges and the surface on both sides. Scratches, marks, creases and whitening may affect the grade.

Avoid harsh cleaning or alterations, which may damage the card and affect its eligibility for grading.

PSA, Beckett/BGS and CGC are established names in collecting. Their grading scales, acceptance rules and services differ. Check each company’s official website to confirm that it accepts your card type.

Compare current fees, declared-value tiers, quoted turnaround times and return terms before paying.

Carefully place the card in a clean soft sleeve, then in a semi-rigid holder accepted by the recipient. Add rigid protection and suitable outer packaging without squeezing the card.

Complete the company’s submission form, keep photos of the packing process and use tracked shipping. Consider suitable shipping insurance based on the card’s value and the carrier’s terms.

After delivery, the company checks in and processes your card according to the selected service. When it returns, check the holder details and certification number, when provided.

Before paying for professional grading, CartesGradées pre-grading can help identify visible flaws. It is an independent preliminary assessment: the grading company alone determines the final grade.