Layer Your Protection
Grading companies see cards arrive damaged due to poor packaging every single day. A proper pack uses multiple layers, each one protecting against a different type of damage. Do not skip steps.
Step-by-Step
1. Place the card in a soft penny sleeve. This protects the surface from the hard plastic toploader. 2. Slide the sleeved card into a toploader. 3. Seal the toploader opening with a small piece of painter's tape (never regular tape, since it can leave residue). 4. Place the toploader in a team bag and seal it. 5. Wrap in paper towel or bubble wrap and place in a bubble mailer.
Choosing the Right Toploader Thickness
Toploaders come in different thicknesses measured in points (pt). Standard cards use 35pt. Thicker cards like jersey cards or vintage stock may need 75pt, 100pt, or even 180pt holders. Using a toploader that is too thin will cause the card to rattle and potentially bend inside.