What to do about a PSA order
 

I have a PSA value order that has been on QA check 1 since October 21st. Do I let it ride or call them assuming there is an issue?

I would let it ride. Seems about normal.

You can always call, just to check in. Doesn't cost you anything, and my experience is that they'll pick up the phone and talk to you.

At the same time, the odds are low that you'll get any meaningful intel.

And quite honestly, 6 weeks at QA check 1 isn't that long. It's a little long, but I've seen them sit there for longer. Given that we usually get to wait several months for PSA to turn stuff around, what's another month or two?

I would definitely call PSA. I've had submissions sent after Oct 21st and already returned to me, so that is definitely too long. QA check 1 and 2 are often when PSA contacts you when something is wrong with your order such as permission for an upcharge, or they need a new credit card, etc. Maybe they already sent you an email about this, but you missed it (or it went to spam). The other possibility is that you have an irregular sized card, and the holder for it is out of stock, so PSA is still waiting for the right holder to arrive.

It's a tough choice these days. SGC will get your card turned around in a couple weeks, but will SLAUGHTER you on grades. PSA is a ridiculous company re: their turn times. The pandemic is way in the rear view mirror and I have cards in their system for 3 months now.

Those happen at QA check 2, not check 1, from my experience.

Update:
 

I have still not received the grades on this order. I know things can get held up along the way, but it seems like three months is a long time for cards to go through the review process as described by PSA.

Did you ever contact them? At this point it couldn't hurt to if you have not.

Call them. Or use the customer portal.

No contact
 

It’s hard to call them unless you get on the early queue. I also don’t want to poke the bear.

I guess that limits your alternatives. Sounds like you better keep waiting patiently, and hope for the best.

If you call, plan on calling the 1st minute or 2 of when they start. I have called 10-30 minutes after they start and the queue is too long such that they can't return your call (if you select the call back option) or be on hold for 8+ hours.

Graded Popped on a Saturday?
 

Grades Popped today. Maybe they were reading the thread. HAHA

Tell us more. How do you feel about the grades?

Grades
 

Nothing too surprising. It’s about the 100th order I have had to PSA. I felt like the 33 goudey’s I sent in were graded really tough. I submitted an entire set over the years that all came back PSA 5’s so I feel like I know that set well. I also feel like the 1950’s stuff came back consistently lower than I anticipated.

Bummer.

One hears a lot about the new and tougher grading these days, although it’s always a kick in the shorts when it affects your submission.

Send them more cards. It will take your mind off the first order.