Sending Cards Off for Grading

By Joseph Alexander

Prepare your cards, package them carefully, and build a submission routine that protects the collection before grading begins.

Preparation starts before the package

Sending a card for grading should feel deliberate, not rushed. Begin by reviewing each card in good lighting and noting anything you want to remember before it leaves your hands. A quick record of the card, condition, and submission details can make the process easier to track.

Use clean sleeves and a rigid holder that protects the card without putting pressure on its edges. Avoid improvised packaging that allows the card to slide, bend, or move against another surface during transit.

Build a protective packing layer

Place the protected card between stable pieces of cardboard or another rigid buffer, then secure the bundle so it cannot shift. The goal is not to make the package heavy; it is to prevent movement and create a predictable layer of protection around the card.

Before sealing the box, compare the contents with your submission record. Confirm the card order, paperwork, payment details, and return information. A few minutes of checking at the beginning can prevent confusion once the package is in transit.

Follow us to keep in touch

Where we share our creative journey, design experiments, and industry thoughts.