Submitting your sports cards for grading is an important step in protecting and enhancing the value of your collection. Whether you’re new to card collecting or a seasoned pro, following the right steps when preparing your cards for grading can have a huge impact on the final grade they receive. Proper preparation ensures that your cards are submitted in the best possible condition, giving them the highest chance of receiving top marks. Here’s a guide to help you prep your cards before sending them in for grading.

1. Handle Cards with Great Care

The first rule when preparing cards for grading is to handle them carefully. Every bit of care counts when it comes to preserving the condition of your cards.

• Clean hands are a must: Always wash and dry your hands before handling cards to avoid transferring dirt or oils onto their surface.
• Use soft sleeves: Handle the card by its edges and place it immediately into a penny sleeve to prevent smudges, fingerprints, or accidental damage.

2. Check the Condition of Each Card Before Submission

Taking a close look at each card before sending it for grading will give you a good idea of its current condition and potential grade. Pay attention to the following:

• Surface condition: Look closely for scratches, print lines, or other marks. A magnifying tool can help you spot small imperfections.
• Corners and edges: Examine corners and edges for signs of wear or dings, as these can heavily influence the card’s grade.
• Centering: Poorly centered cards—where the borders are uneven—can negatively affect the final grade. Always check how well the card is aligned.
• Print quality: Look for printing defects like ink smudges or misaligned images. These will also impact the grading.

3. Clean Cards Gently and Carefully

Cleaning your cards before submitting them can help improve their visual appeal. However, it’s crucial to be gentle and cautious:

• Use a microfiber cloth: Lightly clean the surface using a soft microfiber cloth to remove any dust or fingerprints.
• Avoid harsh chemicals: Never use any cleaning solutions or products on your cards. These can cause irreversible damage and may lower the grade.

4. Protect Your Cards with Proper Storage Materials

After checking and cleaning your cards, it’s essential to protect them before submission. Here’s how:

• Place cards in sleeves: Start by placing each card in a penny sleeve to keep the surface protected from scratches and dirt.  Take extra care when placing the card in the penny sleeve not to catch the corner.  At FCG we make it a practice of cutting a small notch off of the top corner to make placing the card in the sleeve easier.
• Top loaders or semi-rigid holders: Once sleeved, place the card in a top loader or a semi-rigid card saver to protect it from bending or damage during shipping. At FCG Grading, we accept both top loaders and semi-rigid holders, but be sure to check your grading company’s specific requirements.

5. Organize and Label Your Submission

Proper organization can streamline the grading process, making it easier for both you and the grading company. Here’s what to do:

• Group your cards: Sort your cards by type or set to keep things organized. This makes the submission process faster and more efficient.
• Complete submission forms: Ensure you’ve accurately filled out the grading company’s submission forms, including the card year, set, and any other details required.
• Use labels if needed: Some grading companies may provide labels for you to attach to your submission. Be sure to follow their instructions to avoid processing delays.

6. Securely Package Your Cards for Shipping

When you’re ready to send in your cards, packaging them securely is crucial to ensuring they arrive in perfect condition:

• Use bubble wrap: Wrap your sleeved and top-loaded cards in bubble wrap to cushion them during transit.
• Sturdy box for shipping: Use a strong shipping box to protect the cards from being crushed or damaged during delivery.
• Include all paperwork: Don’t forget to add your submission forms and payment details as instructed by the grading company.

7. Review FCG Grading’s Submission Guidelines

Before sending your cards, it’s important to review the specific submission guidelines for FCG Grading. Every grading service has different rules, so always double-check to ensure you’re following the correct process.

Final Thoughts: Get the Best Grade for Your Sports Cards

Submitting your cards for grading is an exciting step, and proper preparation is key to getting the best possible grade. By handling them carefully, cleaning them gently, and packaging them securely, you’ll set yourself up for success. At FCG Grading, we strive to offer accurate, transparent grading services to all collectors. Make sure your cards are ready to shine by following these steps, and maximize the value of your collection!

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Ready to submit your cards for grading? Visit our submission page today and get started with FCG Grading.