Having cards graded

[jmatchett]

Hi,

I've never done this before, but I have a few cards I'd like to get graded. I was wondering if someone could give me a little info:

1. Is BGS the way to go, or is PSA still around (or someone else)? Also, what is the contact info for these companies

2. How much does having a card graded generally cost?

3. If a card is autographed, does the auto play a part in the grading?

4. What is the usual turn-around time?

Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.

JD

 

[sprague11]

I'm not one for grading cards myself, but:

1. BGS or PSA seem to be the two most respected companies.
2. BOth have prices on their websites. Some offer package deals for multiple cards or discounts for slower services.
3. Autographs do factor into the grade. BGS has a seperate grade for the graph.
4. Depends on the service you pick

www.beckett.com/grading
www.psacard.com

 

[2fnlo]

1. Is BGS the way to go, or is PSA still around (or someone else)? Also, what is the contact info for these companies

IMO BGS is the way to go. PSA seems to be what people like if they are grading alot of vintage, but personally I think BGS has the best holders. In any test I seen the hold up the best, and I just flat out love them! My PC tells that whole story as I only allow BGS cards into my PC.

2. How much does having a card graded generally cost?

It depends, I think the lowest BGS goes is $5 per card (+ shipping/insurance/autograph surcharge) and that is for 45 working days which is like 2 month (when you factor in shipping and non business days). Their fastest service is like 1 day and I think thats like $25 per card plus other fees mentioned. If you factor in shipping, and insurance its definitely worth your while to send a large lot of cards to reduce your price per card. Also keep an eye out as Beckett puts out alot of specials for $10 per 10 cards (or more) for 10 days working.

In fact they have a 10 day service, $9 per card (plus shipping/Insurance/Autograph fees), no min, no max until July 31st if you just put Net0508 into the promotions slot on your order form.

3. If a card is autographed, does the auto play a part in the grading?

Yes as mentioned there is a Autograph fee of $2 per auto, meaning if you send a 1 auto card its $2 and a 3 auto card is $6.

4. What is the usual turn-around time?

Well if it is that 10 days for $9 deal you figure 4 days to ship there, 10 business days, any weekends in between, and 4 days to ship back (the use USPS for me but there is other options like UPS).

I don't know if I am allowed to link to Beckett but I sure you can find your way to their website and click on grading and see alot more info that you may need.