Follow these guidelines to ensure your cards arrive at our facility in the same condition you packed them. Proper packaging protects your investment and helps us process your submission faster.
Clear, soft penny sleeves to protect each card's surface. Avoid opaque or frosted sleeves — we need to see both sides clearly.
RequiredCard Saver I or equivalent semi-rigid holders. These provide the right balance of protection and flexibility for safe handling.
RequiredA new, appropriately sized box for your submission. Avoid reused or oversized boxes — snug fit with padding is key.
RequiredTwo pieces of cardboard slightly larger than your card stack. These act as a protective "sandwich" around your cards.
RequiredWrap your secured card stack in bubble wrap. Fill any empty space in the box to prevent movement during transit.
RequiredPrint your submission confirmation from the AGA online portal. Include it inside the box with your cards.
RequiredPlace each card into a clear penny sleeve. Handle cards by the edges to avoid fingerprints on the surface. Make sure the sleeve is the correct size — cards should not slide around inside the sleeve.
Slide each sleeved card into a semi-rigid holder (Card Saver I or equivalent). The card should fit snugly without bending. If you'd like, add a small low-tack pull tab to the penny sleeve to help our team safely remove the card.
Stack your cards in the exact sequence listed on your submission form, starting with Item #1 on top. Place all cards facing the same direction. This speeds up processing and ensures each card is matched to the correct entry.
Place the stack between two cardboard dividers that are slightly larger than the cards. Secure with 2–3 rubber bands — tight enough to prevent shifting, but loose enough that the cards aren't compressed or bent.
Wrap the secured card stack in bubble wrap. Place it inside your shipping box, and fill any remaining space with packing paper or additional bubble wrap. Nothing should move when you shake the box. Include your printed submission form inside the box.
Seal all box seams with high-quality packing tape. Write your service tier on the outside of the box (e.g., "Standard" or "Express"). Attach your shipping label directly to the box — do not use label pouches. Ship to the AGA address below with tracking and signature confirmation.
Use clear penny sleeves and semi-rigid holders (Card Saver I or equivalent) for every card. Stack cards in submission order. Use a new, sturdy box. Fill empty space so nothing moves. Use proper packing tape on all seams. Ship with tracking and signature confirmation. Include your printed submission form.
Don't use top loaders, screw-down holders, or snap cases. Don't use scotch tape, painters tape, or reused tape. Don't reuse old or damaged boxes. Don't leave empty space in the box. Don't use opaque or frosted sleeves. Don't ship without tracking. Don't forget to include your submission form.
Priority Mail or Priority Mail Express recommended. First-Class Mail accepted for smaller submissions.
Insurance available up to $50,000 via Registered Mail.
Most PopularFedEx 2Day or FedEx Express recommended for high-value submissions.
Reliable tracking and signature confirmation included with most services.
Best for High ValueUPS Ground or UPS Next Day Air for time-sensitive submissions.
InsureShield coverage available up to $10,000 per shipment.
ReliablePlease do not send pre-paid return shipping labels or materials. AGA handles all return shipping.
AGA is not liable for any damage or loss that occurs during shipping to our facility. We strongly recommend purchasing shipping insurance for all submissions.
Standard carrier insurance may have limitations on collectibles. For high-value submissions, consider specialized collectibles insurance providers such as Secursus or CollectInsure for comprehensive coverage.
Once your items are received at our facility, AGA takes full responsibility for the safety and care of your submission through grading and return shipping.
USPS, FedEx, or UPS standard insurance is typically sufficient for submissions valued under $500.
Consider adding declared value coverage through your carrier. Use tracking with signature confirmation.
Use a dedicated collectibles insurance provider. Ship via FedEx Express or USPS Registered Mail for maximum security.
Create your order online, then follow this guide to pack and ship your cards to AGA. We'll handle the rest.