How to Increase Your Card's Grade Before You Submit
Practical steps to maximize your grading score before you submit your cards.
You can't change the card you pulled, but you can make sure you only submit cards that are ready — and that you've evaluated them correctly. Here's a practical pre-submission checklist.
Before You Submit: A Checklist
- Measure centering on both axes. Confirm the card clears the threshold for your target grade before anything else.
- Inspect under raking light. Tilt the card under a single light source to reveal surface scratches and print defects the naked eye misses.
- Check corners under magnification. A loupe or macro lens reveals soft corners that look sharp at arm's length.
- Examine the edges. Look for chipping or whitening, especially on dark-bordered cards.
- Compare against the grade thresholds. Be honest about whether the card clears your target.
Handle and Store Cards Properly
- Always handle cards by the edges with clean, dry hands.
- Use penny sleeves and semi-rigid holders for submission.
- Keep cards away from heat, humidity, and direct sunlight.
Pick the Right Cards to Submit
Grading fees add up quickly. The single biggest way to "improve" your results is to only submit cards that have a real shot at the grade you want. A pre-screen step turns grading from a gamble into a calculated decision.
Build a pre-submission routine
Make centering measurement the first step in your routine. Scan each candidate with MintySlab, set aside the ones that clear your target ratio, and submit with confidence instead of crossing your fingers.
Manage Expectations
No prep can turn a damaged card into a gem — but careful evaluation ensures you're spending grading dollars only where they have the best chance to pay off.
Stop guessing — let MintySlab measure centering for you. Scan Before You Slab.