getting a card graded

[sbfinley]

Cliff Notes: (Some of this has already been covered).

- Use Card Savers and package well.
- Denote the level of service being used on the outside of the box (especially if using PSA). This seems to speed along the process.
- Insure and confirm delivery in line with what you are sending. Don't send $1000 worth of cards with $50 of insurance and no signature.
- The clock on your return time doesn't start when they receive the package, but instead when it is logged. Could be three hours, could be three days.
- For fastest loggage send in the middle of the months. It seems the beginning of the month slows from submissions trying to make the previous deadline and the influx of the new specials.
- Turnaround time is in "business" days. No weekends no holidays. And if there is a major card show count on a couple days of no graders in house.
- Turnaround time is estimated. The quicker the service you pay for the more likely your sub will pop in the time frame. It's not unheard of for PSA 45 day specials to take 4 months.
- Be prepared to be disappointed. It takes time to learn how to self grade. My first couple of subs were filled with cards I thought were 9's and 10's that came back 6's and 7's. Educate yourself on surface wrinkles, print defects, and centering. Invest in a jewelers' loupe, even a cheap one. Cross your fingers and hope for the best.