How to Crossover a BGS Card to PSA Grading Successfully
If you have a card graded by Beckett Grading Services (BGS) and want it graded by Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), this process is called a crossover submission. Essentially, you submit the same card, already encapsulated by BGS, to PSA for evaluation and encapsulation in a PSA slab. Collectors do this to gain PSA's market recognition, seek a different grade, or prefer PSA's slab appearance. To avoid damaging your card or losing value, you need to prepare it carefully, understand the submission steps, and be aware of potential risks and costs.
What does it mean to crossover a BGS card to PSA and why do collectors do it?
Crossover grading means submitting a card already graded and sealed by BGS to PSA for a new evaluation and encapsulation. Collectors pursue crossover for several reasons: PSA is the most widely recognized grading company and often commands higher resale prices and demand. Some want a second opinion on the card's condition or hope PSA's grading standards might give a better grade. Others prefer PSA's slab design for display or resale. Knowing these reasons helps you decide if crossover suits your goals despite the risks involved.
How do I prepare my BGS-graded card before submitting it to PSA?
Handle your BGS slab carefully, holding it by the edges to avoid fingerprints or damage. Do not open or tamper with the slab; PSA requires the card sealed in the original slab upon submission. Take clear photos of the card and the slab from multiple angles to document the current condition and grade. Pack the slab securely in a padded box with bubble wrap or foam to prevent movement during shipping. Include all required PSA submission forms, and keep copies of everything and your payment receipt.
What are the step-by-step instructions to submit a BGS card to PSA for crossover grading?
- Log in or create an account on PSA's official submission website.
- Select "Crossover" as your submission type, indicating the card is graded by BGS.
- Complete the submission form with details about your card: set, player, year, and BGS grade.
- Choose the PSA grading service level that fits your budget and timing needs.
- Print the submission form and payment receipt.
- Package the BGS slab securely with protective materials.
- Place the submission form inside the package.
- Ship the package to PSA's designated address using a trackable, insured courier.
- Keep your shipping receipt and tracking number for monitoring the grading process.
What should I watch out for to avoid damaging my card or losing value during crossover?
Never remove the card from the BGS slab yourself. PSA only accepts crossover submissions with the card still sealed inside the original BGS holder. Opening the slab risks damage and will void the submission. Use sturdy packaging and insured shipping to protect against transit damage. Be aware PSA and BGS have different grading standards; your card might receive a lower grade, which can affect value. Also, some buyers prefer BGS slabs, so consider how switching to PSA’s slab might impact your card's market appeal.
What happens after I submit my BGS card to PSA and how long does it take?
PSA logs your submission upon receiving your package and starts the grading process, which includes verifying authenticity, assessing condition, and assigning a PSA grade. Turnaround time varies by service level and current workload; it can take from a few weeks to several months. You can check status updates through your PSA online account. Once graded, your card will be sealed in a PSA slab and shipped back. The original BGS slab is opened, the card removed, then returned in the new PSA holder. The empty BGS slab may be returned separately or discarded by PSA.
Conclusion
Crossing over a BGS-graded card to PSA can help align your collection with market preferences or get a different grading perspective. By preparing your card carefully, following PSA's submission process, and understanding the risks and costs, you can protect your card’s condition and value. Choose the PSA service level that matches your timeline and budget. Once complete, you’ll have a new PSA grade and encapsulation that may enhance your card’s appeal for resale or personal enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I guarantee a higher grade when crossing over from BGS to PSA?
No grading company guarantees a higher grade. PSA’s grading standards differ from BGS, so your card could receive a higher, lower, or similar grade.
Is it more expensive to crossover a card than to submit an ungraded card to PSA?
Crossover submissions usually cost the same or more than standard submissions because PSA must open the existing slab and regrade the card. Exact fees depend on the service level you choose.
Will PSA return my card in the original BGS slab?
No. PSA removes the card from the BGS slab and returns it encapsulated in a PSA slab. The original BGS slab will be empty and either returned separately or disposed of by PSA.