As a collector entering the exciting world of trading cards, understanding the grading process is essential. Whether you’re investing in cards for their long-term value or simply want to preserve your favourite pieces in top condition, knowing how PSA grading works is a great place to start. It’s always worth learning the basics before getting started and everything you need to know about PSA grading is clearly explained here on our website; from how the scale works to what the graders look for and how to submit your cards for evaluation.
Who are PSA?
PSA, or Professional Sports Authenticator, is one of the most trusted names in trading card grading. Based in Santa Ana, California, PSA has been operating since 1991 and has graded over 50 million collectibles worldwide. Their long-standing reputation for accuracy and consistency makes them a top choice for collectors around the world and at Black Label Grading, we are proud that we are an Official PSA Partner.
What is PSA Grading?
PSA evaluates trading cards based on factors like centering, corners, edges, and surface condition. Each card receives a grade from 1 to 10, with 10 being ‘Gem Mint’, indicating a card in pristine condition. We love to see these cards as well, it’s an exciting time in the Black Label Grading office when this happens!
Why is Grading Important?
Grading provides assurance of a card’s authenticity and condition, which can significantly influence its market value. A higher grade often means a higher value, making grading a crucial step for serious collectors.
The Grading Process
- Authentication: Experts verify the card’s legitimacy, ensuring it’s not counterfeit.
- Grading: The card is assessed for centering, corners, edges, and surface.
- Encapsulation: The graded card is sealed in a tamper-evident holder with a label displaying its grade and unique certification number.
Challenges in Submitting Cards
Submitting cards for grading can be daunting, especially for those new to the process. It’s not just a case of popping your cards in the post, it involves meticulous paperwork, proper packaging to avoid damage in transit, and navigating the ins and outs of international shipping. PSA are based in the US, so it is never a case of next day delivery! Instead, collectors need to factor in longer turnaround times, potential customs fees, and the risk of delays. For many, the idea of sending valuable cards overseas can be nerve-wracking, particularly when considering the time, money, and sentimental value tied up in each item. That’s why understanding the process, or using a trusted UK-based middleman service, can make all the difference in ensuring your cards reach PSA safely and are returned graded, protected, and ready to enjoy or resell with confidence.
Non-Monetary Benefits of Grading Cards
One of the biggest advantages of grading your trading cards is preservation. Once a card is professionally graded, it’s sealed in a tamper-proof, hard plastic case, often referred to as a slab. These slabs are designed to protect the card from physical damage, dust, moisture, and UV light, all of which can cause deterioration over time. Whether you’re holding onto a card for sentimental reasons or aiming to sell it in the future, having it safely encapsulated maintains its condition and ensures its value is locked in. For serious collectors, slabs offer peace of mind, your card is not only authenticated and graded but also protected for the long term.
How Black Label Grading Can Help
As an official PSA Partner for the UK and EU, (have we already mentioned that?) Black Label Grading simplifies this process for you. We handle all aspects of submission, from completing the necessary paperwork to securely shipping your cards to PSA in California.
Our services include:
- Hassle-Free Submissions: We manage all documentation, ensuring accuracy and compliance with PSA’s requirements.
- Secure Shipping: Your cards are packaged securely and insured during transit, mitigating risks associated with international shipping.
- Customs Management: We handle customs procedures, preventing unexpected fees upon your cards’ return
- Cost-Effective Solutions: By leveraging our services, you can often save on costs related to shipping, insurance, and customs.
Our goal is to make the grading process accessible and stress-free, allowing you to focus on the exciting part of your collection.
Everything you need to know about PSA grading
Understanding PSA grading is vital for anyone involved in trading card collecting. While the process can be intricate, partnering with a trusted intermediary like Black Label Grading ensures your cards are handled with care and professionalism, enhancing your collecting experience. You really don’t want to leave things to chance when there are companies like Black Label Grading to deal with everything properly for you. We’re here to help you understand everything you need to know about PSA grading, so here’s the solutions to some questions you might have.
Insurance
At Black Label Grading, we know how important your collectable cards are to you – that’s why we go the extra mile to ensure they’re safe and secure throughout their entire journey with us. From the moment your cards arrive to the moment they’re returned, you are covered. We’ve built our process with multiple layers of protection to give you complete peace of mind at every step. For full transparency on how your cards are handled and protected, please see our terms and conditions.
FAQs
Q: How long does the PSA grading process take?
A: Turnaround times vary based on the service level selected. For example, TCG Bulk submissions have a current turnaround of 45 business days.
Q: What factors affect a card’s grade?
A: PSA assesses centering, corners, edges, and surface condition when determining a card’s grade.
Q: Is using an intermediary service more expensive?
A: While there is a service fee, using an intermediary like Black Label Grading can often save money by reducing potential costs related to shipping errors, customs fees, and insurance.
Q: Can I submit cards directly to PSA?
A: Yes, direct submission is possible. However, it requires handling all paperwork, shipping, and customs procedures yourself. Using an intermediary like Black Label Grading simplifies this process.
Q: How can I track my submission?
A: Black Label Grading provides regular updates throughout the grading process, keeping you informed every step of the way.
Ensure your cards receive the grading they deserve, send them to Black Label Grading today. And if you have any questions about grading or need help deciding which service is right for you, get in touch with us at info@blacklabelgrading.com.
Q: How can I submit my cards to PSA with Black Label Grading?
All information on PSA card submissions using Black Label Grading using the link here.
