Sending your trading cards to Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) for grading is a popular choice among collectors as it provides an official assessment of the card’s condition and authenticity. However, before you send your cards to PSA, it’s essential to understand the costs involved. Let’s delve into the topic and explore the expenses associated with card grading services.
How much does it cost?
**The cost to send cards to PSA varies depending on the type of service you choose and the declared value of your card.** PSA offers different service levels, including regular, express, and super express. Each service has varying turnaround times and associated fees, so it’s crucial to select an appropriate option based on your needs and budget.
The most common service level chosen by collectors is the regular service, which is divided into three tiers: economy, value, and regular. The economy tier costs $12 per card and has a 90-business day turnaround time. The value tier is priced at $20 per card with a 60-business day turnaround, while the regular tier costs $50 per card and offers a faster 20-business day turnaround.
If you opt for quicker turnaround times, you can choose either express or super express services, but they come with higher fees. The express service allows your card to be graded within ten business days at a cost of $75 per card. For urgent grading needs, the super express service guarantees a five-business day turnaround at a significantly higher fee of $300 per card.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I calculate the approximate cost of grading before sending my cards?
1. Can I calculate the approximate cost of grading before sending my cards?
Yes, PSA provides a helpful online fee calculator where you can input the number of cards, declared value, and service level to estimate the total cost.
2. Are there any additional fees apart from the grading cost?
Yes, if you choose to have your card encapsulated in PSA’s tamper-evident holder, an additional fee ranging from $1 to $3 per card applies.
3. Is there any discount available for bulk submissions?
Yes, PSA offers discounted rates for bulk submissions. The precise discounts are dependent on the number of cards being submitted, so it’s best to consult PSA’s website or contact their customer service for specific details.
4. Are there any restrictions on card types, sizes, or sports?
No, PSA accepts a wide range of cards from various sports and genres. From baseball and basketball to Pokémon and Magic: The Gathering, almost all types and sizes of trading cards are eligible for grading.
5. Can I insure my cards while they are in transit to PSA?
Yes, it is advisable to insure your package when sending your cards to PSA. While PSA takes great care of the cards they receive, accidents during shipping can happen, so insurance provides added protection for your valuable collectibles.
6. How do I pay for the grading fees?
PSA accepts payment via credit card, check, or money order. The preferred method is credit card since it expedites the processing time.
7. Is there an age limit for cards to be eligible for grading?
No, PSA does not restrict the age of the cards you can submit for grading, allowing collectors to assess the condition and authenticity of vintage as well as newly released cards.
8. Can I choose a lower declared value for my card to reduce the grading fees?
No, it is essential to declare the accurate value of your card to ensure appropriate insurance coverage in case of loss or damage during the grading process.
9. Are there any discounts for PSA members?
Yes, PSA offers a membership program that provides various benefits, including reduced grading fees. Membership levels vary, so make sure to explore the different options to find the one that suits you best.
10. Can I track the progress of my grading submission?
Yes, PSA provides a comprehensive submission tracking system where you can track your order’s progress and receive updates as your cards move through the grading process.
11. How long does it take to receive the graded cards back?
The turnaround time varies depending on the chosen service level. For regular service, you should expect your graded cards to be returned within 20 to 90 business days. Express and super express services provide faster turnaround times of 5 to 10 business days, respectively.
12. Can I get a refund if I’m not satisfied with the grading results?
Unfortunately, PSA does not issue refunds for grading fees if you are dissatisfied with the assigned grade. However, you can resubmit the card for reevaluation by opting for a different service level.