What is the cheapest way to get your sports cards graded?
Introduction to Sports Card Grading
As a collector or seller of sports cards, you know that one of the most important aspects of your hobby is getting your cards graded. Grading not only helps to determine the value of your cards, but it also ensures their authenticity and condition. However, the process of grading your sports cards can be expensive. In this article, I'll share the cheapest ways to get your sports cards graded, so you can enjoy the benefits of graded cards without breaking the bank.
Understanding the Grading Process
Before we dive into the cheapest ways to get your sports cards graded, it's essential to understand the grading process. Sports cards are graded on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being the lowest and 10 being the highest, or gem mint condition. Grading companies examine the card's centering, corners, edges, and surface to determine the overall grade. It's important to remember that the cost of grading can vary depending on the company you choose, the turnaround time, and the number of cards you submit.
Choose the Right Grading Company
There are several grading companies out there that offer sports card grading services. However, not all of them provide the best value for your money. The most reputable grading companies include PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator), BGS (Beckett Grading Services), and SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation). While PSA and BGS are the industry leaders, SGC is known for offering more affordable grading services. It's essential to compare the prices and features of each company to determine which one offers the best value for your needs.
Submitting in Bulk
One of the most effective ways to save on sports card grading is by submitting your cards in bulk. Most grading companies offer a discount for bulk submissions, which can significantly reduce the cost per card. For example, PSA offers a bulk submission rate of $12 per card for 20 or more cards, compared to their regular rate of $20 per card. Make sure to check the submission requirements and minimum quantity for each grading company to ensure you receive the best possible rate.
Utilize Group Submissions
Group submissions are another excellent way to save on sports card grading. A group submission is when several collectors pool their cards together and submit them to a grading company as one larger submission, allowing everyone to take advantage of bulk submission rates. Many sports card forums and social media groups organize group submissions, making it easy to find fellow collectors interested in saving on grading fees. Just be sure to choose a trusted group leader and understand the terms and conditions of the group submission.
Take Advantage of Special Offers and Promotions
Grading companies often run special offers and promotions to attract new customers or encourage existing customers to submit more cards. These promotions can include discounted rates, free shipping, or additional services such as card authentication. Keep an eye on the grading company's website and social media pages for announcements about special offers, and be ready to submit your cards when a promotion is available.
Consider Lower-Tier Grading Companies
While PSA, BGS, and SGC are the top-tier grading companies, there are other lower-tier companies that offer more affordable grading services. Some of these companies include GMA (Grading & Authentication), KSA (KSA Certification), and CSG (Certified Sports Guaranty). While these companies may not carry the same prestige and value as the top-tier companies, they can still provide accurate grading and authentication services for a fraction of the cost. Just be aware that cards graded by lower-tier companies may not command the same prices in the secondary market.
Be Selective with the Cards You Grade
Finally, one of the best ways to save on sports card grading is to be selective with the cards you choose to grade. Instead of submitting every card in your collection, focus on grading only the cards with the most potential value, such as rookie cards, autographed cards, or cards with low print runs. By grading only the most valuable cards in your collection, you can maximize your return on investment and minimize your grading expenses.
Conclusion
Getting your sports cards graded doesn't have to be expensive. By choosing the right grading company, submitting in bulk, utilizing group submissions, taking advantage of special offers, considering lower-tier grading companies, and being selective with the cards you grade, you can enjoy the benefits of graded sports cards without breaking the bank. Happy collecting!