A couple questions about the Expo

[ovechkincrosby0887]

Been in the hobby for quite a while, just have never found time to make it down to the expo. Thinking about making the trip on Friday this year. Just a few questions for a rookie.

Are prices on boxes higher at the expo? Asking in terms of a case of series 1. Would I be better off to buy it before?
If I buy a case at the expo, I know there are some redemption programs. Do i have to bust the case on the grounds?

Any other info for a rookie would be great!

Thanks,

 

[creasecollector]

For the redemption program, you'll need to buy from a specific set of dealers in order to receive your ticket to take to the UD Booth to get in the redemption program.

In the spring, the dealers who were able to get you eligible for the redemption programs had these big balloons hovering over their booths, to let collectors know that a purchase from them can get them a spot in the redemption program. And you'll need to open up your box at UD's booth, too. I'm not sure how strict they are with those rules when it's for a case, since that's a lot of product to bust & haul around with you.

 

[Bozzy]

Generally I find box prices to be fairly competitive with current rates (although there will always be the gouger but also a good deal in the room), and in terms of Series 1 you will see that most of those authorized Diamond Dealers you must by from are all within $5-10 of each other. As a guy who prefers to sort cards somewhat what I have done at the Upper Deck redemption booth each year is simply open the box and break the seal on each pack, then place them back in the box (I don't even look at the cards right then). The UD staff have always been fine with this and it doesn't take longer than a couple minutes to get through each box.

 

[junyab]

Definitely try and walk the floor to find the best deal...at the spring expo I remember finding one dealer who was selling Ice $20/box cheaper than the most expensive. But it was out a bit longer than S1 will be so YMMV.