There are countless reasons as to why you’d want to submit your cards for grading. Maybe you’ve unearthed a box of rare Pokémon cards, or maybe you’re thinking outside the box when it comes to investing. The PVA glue that binds trading card fanatics and investors alike is protection, value and authenticity. Many rookies ask: How do I submit my cards for grading?
At GetGraded, we specialize in simple, secure, and transparent card grading services. Based in California with international operations, our mission is to serve hobbyists, investors and collectors with world-class grading standards – right here in the USA.
This guide walks you through the exact GetGraded submission process, explains how to send cards for grading and offers up tips on how to prepare your cards for the best results.
Why Grade Your Trading Cards?
If you think your cards are going to make you a boatload of bucks, you’re going to want to ensure that they’re not only sealed but they’re the real deal. There are many reasons why grading matters – here are the stars of the show:
- Authentication: Confirms the card is genuine.
- Condition Verification: Assesses centering, edges, corners and surface.
- Value Protection: Increases resale or insurance value.
- Market Trust: Buyers and investors prefer graded cards, as counterfeit cards are becoming increasingly commonplace.
- Long-Term Preservation: Sealed slabs guard against damage and wear.
If you’ve inherited a first edition dark magician or you’ve hit a home run at a yard sale, you’ll want to protect your cards. Knowing the hows and whys of grading trading cards can help you make lucrative financial decisions.
Why Submit Cards to GetGraded?
With multiple card grading services available, what makes GetGraded the smart choice for American collectors?
Local U.S. Operations
No need to ship overseas or deal with confusing customs – GetGraded operates right out of The Golden State. We offer convenience, quick turnarounds and real-time support.
Trustworthy & Transparent
You’ll receive full visibility into your submission, from arrival to grading to return. Our slabs are durable, tamper-proof and beautifully presented.
Competitive Pricing
We offer flexible pricing for single cards, bulk orders or high-value submissions and the most important part, no hidden fees.
Multi-TCG & Sports Card Expertise
Whether you’re into TCG grading, Pokémon card grading or sports card grading, our team handles it all. We care about your cards, and we are passionate about grading.
Step 1: Choose What Cards to Submit
Start by selecting the cards you want to grade. A simple “I choose you” won’t cut it – have a look at trading values or assess how much the card means to you. Popular cards that are graded include:
- Pokémon: Vintage sets like Base Set, Neo or modern hits like Alternate Arts.
- Sports: Basketball, baseball, football, or soccer rookie and autograph cards.
- TCG: Yu-Gi-Oh!, Magic: The Gathering, One Piece, and more.
Tip: Use a magnifying glass and soft lighting to pre-check your cards. Look for wear, scratches, print lines, whitening, and centering issues.
Step 2: Set Up Your GetGraded Account
To submit cards to GetGraded, you’ll first need to create a free account on our website:
- Visit www.getgraded.com.
- Click “Submit Your Cards” or “Create Account”.
- Enter your details, including shipping address (U.S.-based collectors are prioritized).
- You’ll gain access to your dashboard, where you can track orders and grades.
Once you’re all set up, you’ll be eager to get the show on the road.
Step 3: Begin Your Submission Order
Once logged in, start your card grading submission by selecting:
- Card Type: Pokémon, Sports, TCG, or Other
- Service Level: Choose turnaround speed (e.g. Standard, Express or Bulk)
- Number of Cards: Input how many cards you’re sending
- Extras: Add services like subgrades, autograph authentication or digital scans
The system will automatically generate an invoice and show you the total price. You can preview the breakdown before completing payment. We aim to make the process as seamless and transparent as possible.
Step 4: Package Your Cards Properly
How you send your cards for grading matters. Follow these best practices for packaging:
What You’ll Need:
- Penny sleeves: Thin plastic sleeves to protect card surfaces
- Card savers: Semi-rigid holders (preferred by most grading services)
- Bubble wrap or padding
- Sturdy box or padded mailer
- Printed submission form (from your dashboard)
Packing Tips:
- Gently insert each card into a penny sleeve, then into a card saver.
- Label the card savers (1, 2, 3, etc) to match your online submission list.
- Stack cards securely with padding to avoid movement.
- Include your printed submission form inside the package.
- Seal the box and add fragile stickers if needed.
Making sure you get the packaging right is fundamental to having a seamless dream rather than a chaotic nightmare. After you’ve packed, it’s time to send your cards for grading!
Step 5: Ship to the GetGraded U.S. Facility
Mail your package to our California-based grading center at the following address:
GetGraded Inc.
2530 Wilshire Blvd.
FL 3.
Santa Monica, CA
90403
[Your Order Number]
[Shipping Address – provided during checkout]
We recommend using tracked, insured shipping via USPS, UPS or FedEx. Keep your tracking number safe – this is your proof until we receive and check in your cards.
Step 6: GetGraded’s Authentication & Grading Process
Once your cards arrive at our secure grading facility, our team begins the process of giving your cards the love they need.
Intake & Verification
- Your cards are checked against your submission form.
- We confirm all items have arrived safely.
Authentication
- Cards are verified for legitimacy, especially for vintage and high-value submissions.
- For autographs, we may recommend add-on authentication (when requested).
Grading
- Each card is examined by our expert graders using magnification, centering tools, and surface analysis.
- We assign an overall grade from 1 to 10, based on condition.
Slabbing
- Cards are sealed inside tamper-proof, UV-resistant plastic slabs.
- Each slab includes a GetGraded certification label, a unique serial number, and a QR code.
Documentation & Imaging
- Digital scans and certification data are uploaded to your account.
- You’ll be able to share and view grades online instantly.
When we’ve finished grading, it’s time for the exciting part – receiving your cards.
Step 7: Receiving Your Graded Cards
After grading, your cards are securely packed and shipped back to you.
- Graded cards in slabs
- Digital certificate (via your online dashboard)
- Trackable return shipping info
Standard turnaround times range from 7 to 30 business days, depending on service level. Express options are available if you’re in a rush to be reunited with your cards.
FAQS: Card Grading Submission with GetGraded
You won’t be the first to have questions about grading, and you definitely won’t be the last.
How much does it cost to grade cards?
Pricing depends on the number of cards and turnaround speed. Standard grading starts as low as $15 per card.
Do you grade autographed cards?
Yes! We offer autograph authentication as an add-on service. Be sure to select this option during submission.
Can I submit cards from outside the U.S.?
Yes. While this article focuses on U.S.-based submissions, GetGraded accepts international orders through our global partners and shipping hubs.
What’s the best way to prepare cards before submission?
Use gloves, clean your cards with a microfiber cloth and inspect for flaws. Pre-grading prep can help maximize your grade.
How to Grade Trading Cards with Confidence
At GetGraded, we take pride in simplifying card grading. Our online system, expert team, and secure slabs quickly enhance your collection’s credibility, value, and appeal. With dedication to quality, efficiency and transparency with years of experience under our belts, we can safely say that your cards are in safe hands.
Ready to give your prized cards the recognition they deserve? Now you know the simple steps to send them to GetGraded – the go-to grading service American collectors trust to unlock their cards’ true potential. Want to drop by in person? We have stores and partners all over the globe.
Ready to get started? Submit your cards to GetGraded today and enjoy fast, secure, US-based grading from a team you can trust.