Free Beckett Grading Form in PDF

Instructions on Writing Beckett Grading

Submitting your collectible non-gaming cards for grading through Beckett Grading Services involves a detailed yet straightforward process. Once you have decided to engage with Beckett's grading services, you will need to fill out a specific form that covers everything from your personal details to the specifics of each card you are submitting. This process ensures that each card is accurately tracked, graded, and returned to you securely. The following steps are designed to guide you through filling out the Beckett Grading form.

1. Write your name and if available, your account number, at the top of the form. If you're a first-time submitter, an account number will be assigned to you upon receipt of your order.
2. Indicate your shipping address and specify if it is a residential or business location.
3. Choose your preferred return shipping method from the options provided (e.g., Ground, Priority Overnight) and if applicable, include your FedEx account number.
4. Provide your contact information, including phone number and email address, to receive updates on your submission.
5. For each card you are submitting, list the sport, quantity, year, set name, card number, and the player's name. Assign a declared value to each card or lot of cards. This segment is critical for insurance purposes.
6. Select whether you want your cards to receive a numeric grade or to be authenticated only. This decision depends on the condition and authenticity of the cards. Specific boxes must be checked to indicate your choice.
7. Determine the grading service level (e.g., Standard, Express) and check the appropriate box. The service level affects turnaround time and price.
8. Calculate the total cost of the grading service by following the instructions provided in the form. This involves multiplying the number of cards by the grading fee per card, adding any applicable surcharges for oversized items or autograph certification, and including return shipping and insurance costs.
9. Add sales tax if you are a Texas resident unless exempt for resale purposes.
10. Review the total amount owed for the services and enter your payment information. Payment can be made via check, money order, or credit card. Do not send cash.
11. Sign and date the form, agreeing to the terms and conditions outlined by Beckett Grading Services.
12. Prepare your cards for shipment by placing them in oversized (3.25" X 5") semi-rigid holders, using "penny sleeves" for additional protection. This is recommended to prevent any damage during the shipping process.
13. Send your submission to the designated Beckett Grading Services address, ensuring the package is properly secured and insured for its declared value.

After your order is received, you can expect it to be processed on a business day basis, excluding weekends and holidays as per the Beckett scheduling. It is recommended that you refer to the Beckett website for any updates on turnaround times or additional submission guidelines. Understanding and following each step will facilitate a smoother transaction and ensure your collectibles are graded according to the highest standards in the industry.

What is the Beckett Grading Form?

The Beckett Grading Form is a document used to submit non-gaming cards for grading to Beckett Grading Services (BGS), located in Dallas, TX. It requires details such as the submitter's name, account number (assigned upon first submission), shipping preferences, card information (e.g., year, set name, card/player name), declared value, and chosen grading options.

How do I submit my cards for grading?

To submit your cards for grading, you must fill out the Beckett Grading Form. List each card along with its details and declared value. Choose your grading service level and options, calculate the total cost, including any shipping and insurance, and provide payment information. Finally, agree to the terms and conditions and send your cards along with the form to the provided Beckett address.

Can I submit oversized cards for grading, and are there additional fees?

Yes, Beckett Grading Services accepts most licensed cards up to 8.5 inches by 11 inches. However, there is an oversized item surcharge: $8 for U.S. residents and $12 for international customers for items larger than 3x5 inches.

What payment methods are accepted?

Accepted payment methods include personal checks, credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover), and money orders. It’s important not to send cash. All payments should be made in U.S. funds. There is also a fee for returned checks.

Is insurance required for submitting cards?

While insurance is not mandatory, it is highly recommended to insure your cards during shipping both to and from Beckett Grading Services. The insurance cost is based on the declared value you assign to your cards, which also determines the maximum claim value in case of damage or loss during shipment.

How can I determine the total cost of grading my cards?

To calculate the total cost, add the grading fee per card multiplied by the number of cards plus any additional fees for certified autographs, oversized items, return insurance, and return postage. If you're a Texas resident, also add 8.25% sales tax. The form provides a space to help you calculate these amounts.

Do I need an account number to submit cards for grading?

If you are submitting cards to Beckett for the first time, you don't need an account number when filling out the form. Beckett will assign an account number upon receipt of your order, which you can then use for future submissions.

What happens if I don't check any of the “Authentic” boxes on the submission form?

If neither of the "Authentic" boxes is checked, and if your cards are deemed gradable by BGS standards, they will be given a numeric grade. If they cannot be graded due to alterations but are authentic, they will be sealed and authenticated.

Are there any cards that Beckett Grading Services does not accept?

Beckett Grading Services grades most licensed cards but will not grade cards showing evidence of counterfeiting, tampering, or restoration. Cards deemed not authentic will be returned without a grade, and you will still be responsible for the full grading fee based on your selected service option.

How should I ship my cards to Beckett?

Cards should be sent in oversized (>3.25" X 5") semi-rigid holders with "penny sleeves" for extra protection. Address your submission to Beckett Grading Services, clearly marking the package, and choose your shipping method. Beckett recommends using a method that includes tracking and insurance for your protection. Always ensure your cards are securely packaged to prevent damage during transit.

When filling out the Beckett Grading form for non-gaming cards, several common mistakes can lead to delays or issues with the submission process. One of the first mistakes often encountered is incorrect or incomplete personal information. The form requires details such as name, address, and email, which are crucial for account creation and communication. It's essential to clearly print this information, especially if you're a first-time submitter, as an account number will be assigned based on this info.

Another common error involves the shipping section of the form. Many people overlook or incorrectly select their desired return shipping method in the 'SHIP VIA' box. This mistake can cause confusion or unexpected costs, especially if expedited shipping was preferred but not properly indicated. Likewise, failing to use one's existing FedEx or UPS account number, when available, can lead to missed opportunities for preferred shipping rates and tracking options.

The third mistake to watch out for is related to the grading service level selection and card details listing. Often, submitters either do not check one level only or mix service levels within the same form, which goes against the submission rules. This can complicate the grading process. Additionally, inaccurately listing card details such as quantity, year, set name, card number, and card/player name can lead to discrepancies in grading or insurance coverage. It's crucial to use standard Beckett terminology and double-check all entries for accuracy.

Last but certainly not least, a significant mistake involves payment calculation and provision. The form's section for calculating the amount to be paid to BGS is often filled out incorrectly. This includes wrong totals for the number of cards, incorrect grading fees per card, and overlooked additional costs like return insurance and postage. Moreover, Texas residents frequently miss adding the required sales tax unless exempt. Properly calculating these amounts and providing complete payment information, including credit card details, helps avoid processing delays and ensures that cards are graded and returned without unnecessary holdups.

When submitting cards for grading using the Beckett Grading form, collectors and enthusiasts often need to include additional forms and documents to support their submissions or ensure the safety and accuracy of the grading process. Below is a list of common documents paired with the Beckett Grading form, each briefly described for better understanding.

• Submission Agreement Form: This document outlines the terms and conditions between the submitter and Beckett Grading Services (BGS), including liability, fees, and handling of cards.
• Card Sleeves and Semi-Rigid Holders: Though not a paper document, including these protective items as recommended ensures cards are intact and undamaged during shipping to BGS.
• Invoice: An itemized list of fees for grading, insurance, and return shipping, reflecting the total amount due for the services requested.
• Payment Information Form: Contains details for payment, whether by credit card, check, or money order, including card number, expiration date, and security code, if applicable.
• Graded Card Review Form: This is filled out if submitting previously graded cards for review, possibly for a grade bump or verification.
• Return Shipping Instruction Form: Specifies the preferred method of return shipping and any insurance coverage that is applied based on the declared value of the submission.
• Packing List: A detailed list of all items included in the shipment, ensuring that all submitted cards are accounted for by BGS upon receipt.
• Customer Contact Information: A document or section of a document that contains the submitter's full name, address, phone number, and email address for updates and notifications regarding the submission.
• Declared Value Form: Here, each card's estimated value is declared by the submitter, affecting insurance costs and potential liability coverage.
• Autograph Declaration Form: If submitting autographed cards, this form might be required to declare authenticity or direct BGS for any specific verification processes.

While the Beckett Grading form is critical for the submission process, these associated documents play vital roles in ensuring the grading is performed accurately, securely, and to the satisfaction of the card owner. Collectors should prepare these documents attentively, adhering to the guidelines and requirements set by Beckett Grading Services to facilitate a smooth and efficient grading experience.

The Beckett Grading form can be closely compared to a standard bank loan application in terms of its structure and purpose. Just as a loan application collects detailed personal and financial information to assess and process a request, the Beckett Grading form records specific details about the collector, their shipment preferences, and the cards they wish to have graded. Both documents facilitate a formal request process where the applicant's or submitter's information is crucial for the service provider to make an informed decision or assessment.

Similarly, a passport application form shares commonalities with the Beckett Grading form. A passport application requires meticulous detail about the applicant, including personal identification, contact information, and citizenship details. The Beckett Grading form likewise requires detailed submissions about the customer and their collectibles to process the grading service. Both are gateway documents that enable the user to access a service or benefit upon successful submission and verification.

Another analogous document is the tax return form. Tax returns are comprehensive documents that individuals and businesses use to report their income and calculate their tax liabilities. The Beckett Grading form, much like a tax return, involves financial transactions where the declared value of items and service fees plays a crucial role. Both documents require accurate and honest disclosure of value to determine the owed amount, whether it be taxes or service fees.

The similarity between the Beckett Grading form and a medical history form is found in the purpose of collecting background information for accurate evaluation. A medical history form gathers patient history, current conditions, and other health-related information to assist medical professionals in providing appropriate care. In a parallel manner, the Beckett Grading form collects detailed information on the cards submitted for grading to ensure accurate assessment and valuation. Both forms gather historical and current data to drive an expert evaluation process.

Insurance claim forms also bear resemblance to the Beckett Grading form in terms of declaring the value of items and selecting service options. Insurance claims involve listing items or conditions that are being claimed for insurance purposes, much like declaring cards and their values for grading insurance. In both instances, the value and details of the submission directly affect the outcome - whether it's the amount of an insurance payout or the insurance coverage provided for the graded cards.

A typical event registration form shares the functionality of collecting participant information and preferences with the Beckett Grading form. Event forms often request information on how participants would like to engage with the event, similar to how the grading form inquires about shipping preferences and service levels. Both types of documents facilitate a customized experience based on the submitter's choices.

Another document akin to the Beckett Grading form is a college application. Such applications require detailed personal information, past academic records, and preferences for programs or accommodations. This mirrors the grading form’s need for detailed collector information, card specifics, and service options. Both processes culminate in an evaluation that affects the submitter's future prospects - admission in one case and card valuation in the other.

Lastly, a warranty registration card is comparable to the Beckett Grading form, as both involve registering a product or service for verification and future reference. Warranty cards detail the product purchased, the buyer’s information, and the terms of the warranty service, similar to how the Beckett form records card submission details for grading services. These documents serve as a record of service entitlement and conditions.

When preparing your Beckett Grading submission form, there are several key practices you should follow to ensure your submission is processed smoothly and effectively. Here is a list of dos and don'ts to guide you through this process:

• Do: Use the correct submission form specific to non-gaming cards and ensure it’s completely filled out.
• Do: Accurately list each card, including quantity, year, set name, card number, and player name, along with the declared value for insurance purposes.
• Do: Choose a grading service level carefully and check only one option to avoid any confusion.
• Do: Provide clear and legible printing on the form, especially your name and contact information, to avoid any miscommunication.
• Do: Include return shipping and insurance information at the top of the form to ensure the safe return of your cards.
• Don't: Send cash with your submission; instead, use the accepted methods of payment as indicated on the form.
• Don't: Forget to calculate the total cost accurately, including grading fees, return shipping, insurance, and any applicable taxes or surcharges.
• Don't: Use any shipping method without tracking and insurance since Beckett will not be responsible for any damages incurred during shipment.

Adhering to these guidelines not only facilitates a smoother grading process but also protects your valuable collectibles during their journey to and from the grading service. Accurate and complete submissions can lead to quicker turnaround times and reduce the risk of complications with your order.

Understanding the complexities of card grading can be challenging, especially when dealing with reputable grading services like Beckett Grading Services (BGS). Misconceptions about the BGS submission process can lead to confusion and unnecessary worry. It's important to set the record straight on these misunderstandings:

• First-time submissions require an account number: It's a common belief that you need an account number to submit your cards. However, BGS assigns an account number upon receipt of your first order. There's no need to have one before your initial submission.
• Certain cards can't be graded: While BGS specializes in non-gaming cards, they accept and grade a wide range of licensed cards up to 8.5x11 inches. Oversized items incur additional fees, but the scope of acceptable cards extends beyond what some might think.
• "Penny sleeves" provide sufficient protection for submissions: The proper way to send cards for grading is within oversized (3.25" x 5") semi-rigid holders, with "penny sleeves" used in conjunction. This ensures cards are protected during shipment and handling.
• All submissions must include a handwritten form: On the contrary, all submissions must be accompanied by a Beckett-issued submission form. Handwritten, or any forms not issued by Beckett, are considered null and void.
• Any service level can be chosen for all cards in a submission: Cards must be separated based on submission levels and requirements. Each form should only select one service level to ensure proper processing.
• Texas residents always pay sales tax on submissions: Sales tax applies only if you're a Texas resident. However, if the cards are for resale and a valid resale tax ID number is provided, the tax can be waived.
• Insurance and shipping costs are optional: Beckett strongly recommends insurance and tracking for submissions. The declared value determines insurance costs for return shipping and the maximum claimable for loss or damage during shipment.
• Grading fees are negotiable: Grading fees are based on service levels chosen and cannot be negotiated. These fees cover the thorough and consistent grading efforts Beckett commits to each card.

Clarifying these misconceptions helps ensure your card grading submissions are prepared and processed as smoothly as possible. For the most current information and detailed instructions, always refer to the official Beckett Grading Services website.

When filling out the Beckett Grading form, it's important to follow specific guidelines to ensure your trading cards are graded accurately and returned without issues. Here are 10 key takeaways to remember during the process:

• Beckett Grading Services (BGS) accepts a broad range of licensed cards for grading, including most that are up to 8.5 inches by 11 inches. Items larger than 3x5 inches incur additional fees.
• Submissions must include a Beckett-issued submission form, with all others considered null and void. This ensures your cards are processed correctly and efficiently.
• Clearly print your name and account number (if applicable) on the form. First-time submitters will be assigned an account number upon receipt of their order.
• All cards should be sent in oversized (3.25" X 5") semi-rigid holders with penny sleeves for added protection. BGS will not assume responsibility for damage incurred in other types of holders.
• Specify your return shipping preference in the 'SHIP VIA' section. BGS standard shipping is FedEx Ground, but other options are available and FedEx or UPS account numbers can be used.
• Detail each card on the submission form, including quantity, year, set name/company, card number, card/player name, and declared value. Additional cards require a second sheet.
• Choose only one grading service level per submission form, and separate your cards based on these levels to streamline the grading process.
• Calculating your fees involves totaling the number of cards submitted, multiplying by the grading fee per card, and adding costs for oversized items, return insurance, and shipping. Texas residents must add an 8.25% sales tax.
• Payment must accompany your submission and be in U.S. funds. Checks, money orders, and credit cards are accepted forms of payment, with all necessary details filled out on the form.
• Insurance for the return shipment is based on the owner-declared value, which must be included on the submission form. This value caps the maximum claim for loss or damage during shipping.

Remember, accurate and thorough completion of the Beckett Grading form not only facilitates the grading process but also safeguards your cards and ensures they are returned to you properly graded and protected. For further details, including the Submission Rules and Instructions, always refer to the www.beckett.com/grading website.