THE FOUR PILLARS OF CARD GRADING
Each card is evaluated across four key areas to establish its overall condition.
CENTERING
We examine the alignment of the card's printed design, including the balance of its borders on the front and back.
CORNERS
Corners are assessed for sharpness, whitening, bending, rounding and other signs of wear.
EDGES
We inspect the card's edges for chipping, whitening, roughness and visible damage.
SURFACE
The surface is checked for scratches, dents, print defects, stains and other imperfections that may affect the card's condition.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR VSG GRADE
VSG uses a structured 100-point assessment, with up to 25 points awarded for each of the four grading categories: centering, corners, edges and surface.
These results are used to determine the card's final grade on a 10-point grading scale. Each VSG-graded card receives a unique certificate number linked to our online verification database.
VSG grades are independent assessments. They are not issued, endorsed or guaranteed to match grades from PSA or other grading companies.
HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR CARDS
STEP 1: CHOOSE YOUR GRADING PACKAGE
Select VSG Basic Grading, VSG Premium Grading or enquire about PSA Submission Assistance.
STEP 2: CONTACT VSG
Contact us via WhatsApp to discuss the number of cards, package, pricing and shipping arrangements. Confirm instructions before dispatching.
STEP 3: PROTECT AND PACKAGE YOUR CARDS
Place each card in a protective sleeve and rigid toploader or card saver. Use cushioning and sturdy outer packaging. Never send loose, unprotected cards.
STEP 4: SHIP YOUR CARDS TO VSG
Arrange tracked shipping to the address confirmed by VSG. Shipping costs to VSG are for the customer.
STEP 5: RECEIPT AND CONDITION INSPECTION
VSG inspects the shipment for visible damage and will document and communicate any damage identified on arrival the same day where reasonably possible.
STEP 6: GRADING AND CERTIFICATION
Cards undergo our structured assessment. Each graded card receives a VSG certificate number and online verification record.
STEP 7: SECURE RETURN SHIPPING
Customers pay return courier fees except for qualifying orders of five or more Premium cards, which receive free PostNet-to-PostNet return shipping in South Africa.
SHIPPING, PACKAGING & TRANSPORT RESPONSIBILITY
SHIPPING COSTS
Customers are responsible for all shipping and courier fees to and from VSG, except where a promotional offer applies. Five or more Premium cards qualify for free PostNet-to-PostNet return shipping within South Africa.
PACKAGING REQUIREMENTS
Customers must ensure cards are securely packaged. We recommend sleeves, rigid toploaders or card savers, cushioning and sturdy outer packaging.
INSPECTION UPON ARRIVAL
Incoming packages will be inspected. Any visible damage identified will be documented where reasonably possible and communicated on the day of receipt.
TRANSPORT RESPONSIBILITY
VSG does not accept responsibility for loss, theft or damage occurring while cards are in transit, to the extent permitted by applicable law. Use tracked, reputable couriers and appropriate insurance.
OUR COMMITMENT
Once cards are received into VSG's custody, they will be handled with care and assessed in accordance with our grading procedures.