Self-Assessment Before Submission
Before submitting a game for professional grading, it helps to do your own preliminary assessment. Examine the box for structural integrity -- are the corners sharp or crushed? Is there any water damage, sticker residue, or writing? Check the manual for tears, missing pages, or discoloration. Inspect the cartridge or disc for scratches, label peeling, or marker writing. This self-assessment helps set realistic expectations for the grade your game might receive.
Understanding Grading Criteria
Professional grading uses specific criteria to evaluate each component. Box grading considers factors like corner sharpness, surface integrity, color vibrancy, and print registration. Manual grading looks at page condition, binding quality, and any modifications. Cartridge or disc grading evaluates label condition, plastic shell quality, and contact pin cleanliness. For sealed games, the wrap quality, seal type, and seal placement are all factored in.
Preparing Your Game for Submission
Proper preparation is key to protecting your game during shipping. Place the game in a plastic bag to shield it from moisture. Wrap it in bubble wrap for impact protection, paying special attention to box corners. Use a sturdy shipping box with additional padding. Never use tape directly on the game or its packaging. Include any documentation provided by the grading service, such as a submission form or order number.
Choosing a Grading Service
When selecting a grading service, consider factors like turnaround time, pricing, reputation, and the verification system they use. A good grading service should offer online certificate verification, use tamper-evident encapsulation, employ multiple independent graders for consistency, and provide transparent grading criteria. Look for services that have established trust within the collecting community.
