PSA is never going to accept card cleaning and/or card repair. It's a direct threat to their money back guarantee.

Grading sports cards with PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) can significantly increase their value, making them more attractive to buyers. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to grade your sports cards with PSA:

Understand the PSA Grading Scale

Familiarize yourself with the PSA grading scale, which ranges from 1 (Poor) to 10 (Gem Mint). PSA assesses the card's centering, corners, edges, and surface.

Prepare Your Cards

Select Cards:

  • Choose cards that are likely to receive high grades. Focus on rookie cards, limited editions, and cards of popular players.

Pre-Screen:

  • Check for any visible damage or wear. Cards in the best condition have the highest chances of receiving top grades.

Clean and Handle with Care:

  • Clean the card carefully if needed, but avoid using any substances that could damage it.
  • Handle cards by the edges to avoid fingerprints and smudges.

Create a PSA Account

Visit the PSA website and create an account. This will allow you to submit cards for grading and track your submissions.

Submit Your Cards for Grading

PSA Submission Form:

  • Fill out the online submission form on the PSA website. You'll need to provide details about each card, including the player’s name, card number, and declared value.

Choose a Service Level:

  • Select the appropriate service level based on the card’s value and how quickly you need the grading done. Higher value cards and faster service levels cost more.

Print and Package:

  • Print the submission form and include it with your cards.
  • Package your cards securely using card savers, not top loaders, as recommended by PSA. Place the card savers between pieces of cardboard for additional protection.

Ship Your Cards to PSA

  • Use a secure, trackable shipping method to send your cards to PSA. Include insurance based on the total declared value of your cards.

Wait for Grading

  • Grading can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the service level selected and current backlog at PSA.

Receive and Review Your Graded Cards

  • Once graded, PSA will return your cards encased in a tamper-evident holder with the grade displayed.

Sell Your Graded Cards

Marketplaces:

  • eBay: One of the largest marketplaces for sports cards. Ensure you list your cards with clear photos and detailed descriptions.
  • Sports Card Shows: Attend local and national sports card shows to sell directly to collectors.
  • Online Forums and Groups: Join sports card communities on platforms like Facebook, Reddit, and specialized forums.

Pricing:

  • Research recent sales of similar graded cards to set competitive prices.

Promote:

  • Use social media and collector groups to promote your graded cards.

Tips for Success

  • Stay Informed: Continuously educate yourself about the sports card market and grading trends.
  • Network: Build relationships with other collectors and dealers to gain insights and find potential buyers.
  • Diversify: Don’t rely on a single type of card or player. Diversify your collection to spread risk.

By carefully selecting cards, understanding the grading process, and effectively selling your graded cards, you can maximize your profits flipping sports cards with PSA.

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