How to Get a PSA Card Graded: A Step-by-Step Guide | HowmuchAustralia.info

Welcome to our step-by-step guide on how to get a PSA card graded. If you're a collector of trading cards, you know how important it is to have your cards professionally graded. Getting a card graded by PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) not only provides an independent and unbiased evaluation of its condition but also adds value to your collection. In this guide, we will walk you through the entire process of getting a PSA card graded, from preparing your card to receiving your graded card. Let's get started!

Step 1: Preparing Your Card

Gathering Supplies

First things first, you'll need a few supplies to ensure you handle your card properly before sending it for grading. Here are the supplies you'll need:

• Gloves
• Soft sleeves
• Top loaders

Wearing gloves while handling your card will prevent any oils or dirt from coming into contact with it. Soft sleeves and top loaders provide an extra layer of protection against scratches and damage.

Inspecting the Card

Before sending your card for grading, it's important to carefully inspect it for any imperfections or damage. Find a well-lit area and use a magnifying glass if needed to check for any scratches, creases, or other flaws that may affect the card's condition. Take note of any noticeable defects.

Protecting the Card

Once you've inspected your card, it's crucial to protect it from any potential damage during the grading process. Place the card in a soft sleeve to keep it safe from scratches. For added protection, consider placing the sleeved card in a top loader. Top loaders provide rigidity and prevent bending or warping during transportation.

Step 2: Submitting Your Card for Grading

Understanding PSA's Submission Process

To submit your card for grading, you'll need to create an account on PSA's website. Once registered, you can select the appropriate service level based on your card's value and turnaround time preferences. Fill out the necessary paperwork, including details about your card and the desired grading level.

Packaging and Shipping

Proper packaging is essential to ensure your card arrives at PSA safely. Use sturdy packaging materials like cardboard boxes to protect your card during transit. Address the package to the PSA grading facility using the provided address. Choose a reliable shipping method with tracking to ensure your submission can be monitored. Consider insuring your package for added peace of mind.

Step 3: Tracking Your Submission

Monitoring the Submission Status

PSA offers an online tracking system that allows you to monitor the progress of your submission. After sending in your card, you can check the status of your submission through their website. Keep an eye out for updates such as "Received," "Scheduled for Grading," "Grading Complete," and "Shipped" to stay informed about the progress of your card.

Estimated Turnaround Times

PSA offers different service levels with varying turnaround times. The turnaround time depends on the number of submissions received, so it may vary. Here are the estimated turnaround times for each service level:

• Economy: 50-55 business days
• Regular: 20-25 business days
• Express: 10-15 business days

Please note that these times are approximate and can change depending on PSA's workload. It's important to be patient and understand that quality work takes time.

Step 4: Receiving Your Graded Card

Unboxing and Inspecting the Card

Once your card has been graded and returned to you, it's time to unbox it. Carefully open the package and handle the graded card with clean hands or gloves to avoid leaving any fingerprints or smudges on the case. Inspect the card for any signs of damage that may have occurred during shipping.

Understanding the Grading Scale

PSA uses a 10-point grading scale to evaluate the condition and authenticity of cards. Here are the different categories used in the grading scale:

• Centering
• Corners
• Edges
• Surface

Each category is evaluated and assigned a grade based on its condition. The overall grade of the card is determined by combining these individual grades.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully learned how to get a PSA card graded. By following these steps, you can ensure that your precious trading cards are properly protected and evaluated. Getting your cards graded by PSA adds value to your collection and provides peace of mind. Remember to handle your cards with care, follow PSA's submission guidelines, and be patient throughout the process. Happy collecting!