How to Prepare Pokémon Cards for Grading

You've decided which cards to grade. Now you need to get them from your desk to the grading company without adding any new damage. This bit sounds simple, but it's where a lot of people lose points.

Sleeving Your Cards

Every card needs a soft penny sleeve as the first layer of protection. Slide the card in gently, top-down. Don't force it. If the sleeve feels tight, use a different one. New sleeves from a fresh pack are always better than reused ones.

After the penny sleeve, the card goes into a semi-rigid card saver (like a Card Saver 1) or a standard top loader. Most grading companies prefer card savers because they're easier to open without risking damage to the card inside. Top loaders work too, but tape the opening shut so the card can't slide out.

One card per sleeve, one card per holder. Never double up.

Filling Out Your Submission

Most grading companies have an online submission form. Fill it out before you pack anything. You'll typically need to list each card with its name, set, card number, and your chosen service level. Some services ask you to estimate the value. Be honest here because it affects insurance coverage.

Print out your submission confirmation or packing slip. This goes inside the package with your cards.

Packaging for Shipping

Use a small rigid box or a padded rigid mailer. Wrap your card savers in bubble wrap. A single layer is fine. You don't need to mummify them, just prevent movement and impact damage.

Fill any empty space in the box with crumpled paper or packing material. You don't want the cards shifting during transit. Give the box a gentle shake. If you can feel things moving around, add more packing material.

Seal the box with packing tape. Don't use sellotape or masking tape because they're not strong enough and can come unstuck in transit.

Choosing a Shipping Service

Royal Mail Special Delivery is the go-to for UK grading submissions. It's tracked, signed for, and includes compensation cover up to £500 (or more if you pay extra). Standard first or second class post is not suitable because there's no tracking and limited compensation if something goes wrong.

Keep your tracking number. Check it daily until you see it's been delivered. Most grading companies will email you when they receive your package, but it's good to confirm on your end too.

What Not to Do

Don't use rubber bands around your card savers. Don't stack cards directly on top of each other without individual sleeves and holders. Don't use newspaper as packing material because the ink can transfer. Don't put sticky notes directly on card savers because the adhesive can leave residue.