Pre-grading checklist
Graders look at four things: centering, corners, edges and surface. Checking them yourself first is the cheapest way to avoid paying to grade a card that comes back a 7.
Set up
You need a bright light, ideally one you can move, a jeweler's loupe or a phone's macro mode, and a clean, soft surface. Handle cards by the edges, with clean, dry hands.
1. Centering
Measure both sides with the centering calculator. For a PSA or CGC 10 you need about 55/45 or better on the front. If the front is past 60/40, the card can't reach a 10, so judge it as a 9 candidate at best.
2. Corners
Look at each corner under the loupe. A gem corner comes to a sharp point with no white showing, no rounding and no fraying. One soft corner usually means a 9 at most; several, an 8 or lower.
3. Edges
Run your eye along all four edges against a dark background. Look for chipping, especially on cards with dark borders, and for rough cuts left by the factory. Chrome and colored-border cards show edge wear most.
4. Surface
Tilt the card under the light so it reflects across the surface. Scratches, print lines, dimples, fingerprints and dents only show at an angle. Check the back too. Surface flaws are the most common reason a card that looks perfect gets a 9.
Prep for the submission
- Wipe fingerprints off gently with a clean microfiber cloth. Don't use any liquid.
- Put each card in a fresh penny sleeve, then a semi-rigid holder (most companies ask for these, not top loaders).
- Write down each card and its declared value. The submission planner keeps the list and the total.
Decide
With your read on all four areas, estimate the chance of each grade and run the card through the grading calculator. Send the cards where the numbers work.
Questions
Can I fix a flaw before grading?
No. Pressing, trimming or altering a card is against grading companies' rules, and they look for it. A wiped fingerprint is fine; anything that changes the card isn't.
What's the most common reason for a lower grade?
Surface flaws and centering. Corners get most of the attention, but print lines and light scratches catch more cards.