If you’re planning to submit your collection for PSA card grading, knowing what not to do is just as important as understanding the process itself. Whether you’re submitting a vintage Mickey Mantle, a PSA-worthy Pokémon card, or a prized autograph, simple errors can reduce your card’s grade—or worse, result in a rejected submission.
As a PSA Authorized Dealer, Card Collector Club has helped collectors navigate the grading process with confidence. In this guide, we’ll share five common mistakes to avoid when submitting cards to PSA—and how to set yourself up for grading success.
Why PSA Grading Preparation Matters
A high PSA grade can significantly increase a card’s resale value, especially for rare sports cards and authenticated autographs. But achieving that gem mint 10 doesn’t start at PSA—it starts with you.
From baseball card grading to autograph grading, even the tiniest scuff or packaging error can affect the outcome. That’s why careful prep, accurate labeling, and expert help matter.
- Skipping Pre-Grading Preparation
Mistake: Sending cards without checking for surface flaws, centering issues, or edge wear.
Many new collectors assume their card is a PSA 10 because it “looks good.” But under PSA’s scrutiny, that small print line, off-center border, or micro-edge ding can drop it to a 7 or lower.
What to Do:
- Inspect cards under proper lighting.
- Use magnification to check for defects.
- Compare to PSA’s published grading standards: PSA Grading Standards
- Use clean hands or gloves and handle by the edges only.
- Incorrect or Incomplete Submission Forms
Mistake: Mislabeling card info or omitting important fields on the submission form.
Mislabeling a card’s set name, year, or variation can lead to delays, misgrades, or even rejection.
What to Do:
- Double-check card info (e.g., “1999 Pokémon Base Set – Charizard Holo #4”).
- Use PSA’s Pop Report to confirm card details.
- As a PSA Authorized Dealer, Card Collector Club ensures your submission is labeled correctly from the start.
- Using Poor Packaging Materials
Mistake: Shipping cards in soft sleeves only, or using tape that sticks to the card saver.
Improper packaging is one of the most common reasons cards arrive damaged—or rejected outright.
What to Do:
- Place cards in a penny sleeve.
- Insert sleeve into a semi-rigid Card Saver I (preferred by PSA).
- NEVER use tape directly on the sleeve or saver.
- Secure inside a bubble mailer or box with cardboard reinforcement.
- Submitting Low-Value Cards Without Considering ROI
Mistake: Paying for PSA grading on cards that likely won’t increase significantly in value.
Grading can be costly when done incorrectly. Submitting base cards or damaged commons may not yield a worthwhile return.
What to Do:
- Research eBay sold listings for PSA 9 and 10 versions of the card.
- Factor in grading fees, shipping, and turnaround time.
- Ask for pre-submission help from a trusted source like Card Collector Club.
- Not Using a PSA Authorized Dealer
Mistake: Submitting directly without help, leading to errors, delays, or damaged cards.
Unless you’ve submitted dozens of cards before, the PSA process can feel overwhelming.
What to Do:
Submit through a trusted PSA Authorized Dealer like Card Collector Club. We offer:
- Expert packaging and handling
- Submission prep and paperwork
- Priority grading access
- Group discounts and affordable batch submission
PSA Grading Submission Checklist
Use this quick checklist to prep your next submission:
☐ Card cleaned and inspected
☐ In penny sleeve and semi-rigid card saver
☐ Submission form completed correctly
☐ Cards organized in same order as form
☐ Shipping box securely packed
☐ Return shipping confirmed
☐ Sent through Card Collector Club for PSA handling
Final Thoughts: Grade Like a Pro
PSA card grading is a proven way to protect and increase the value of your collection. But avoidable mistakes can derail your submission and cost you money.
In our experience as a PSA Authorized Dealer, the most successful submissions come from collectors who take the time to prep carefully and trust experts to guide the process.
Whether you’re investing in baseball card grading, preserving a family autograph, or entering the world of Pokémon and TCG, we’re here to help.
Helpful Links:
Ready to Submit Your Cards?
Let Card Collector Club handle it from here.
Visit our PSA Grading Services page or Contact Us to get started today!