PSA - Undershooting Declared Value?
 

Hi. Got a bunch of things graded (for the first time) by PSA. Mostly happy; a few disappointments and two that came back altered (&%$#@*&%$!!!!). Those "altered" cards I declared a pretty high value and paid PSA accordingly. Sooooooooo... wouldn't it have made more sense to drastically under-declare everything you submit to protect against drastically overpaying for their service (and have nothing to show for it)? I understand I eventually have to pay an upcharge when the cards come back with good grades, but so what? I'd have to pay that anyway. Thoughts would be appreciated.

Shoot Bobby (member ID: bobbyw8469) a message. With his many years of experience in submitting cards (especially huge group subs), he surely can give you some insight on the issue.

Keep in mind that your declared value also affects how much they pay you if they mess up your items.

A few years back, I had a card that was pinched during the assembly process. They called and fessed up to it, and offered to credit me for the declared value of the card.

While it wasn’t worth very much, I wish I had declared a much higher value than I did!!

there has to be a better way to protect everyone involved.

But sadly I have no idea how

Declared value affects insured value charges on returned shipping and of course insurance if the package is lost. As noted - PSA will not hesitate to upcharge at the end of the process, prior to shipping. I have had several items upcharged but have considered the charges very fair compared to their posted charges for services.

Agree with all above, there has to be a better way.

A discrepancy!?
 

Notice there is a call for upcharges when you underestimate your grade, but no call for refunds when you overestimate your grade! Hmmmm.