How to pack Pokémon cards for grading (UK)
For UK collectors, the goal is simple: immobilise the card, cushion the package, and track the shipment so your courier cannot bend, crush, or shake your cards into harm.
This how to pack pokemon cards for grading UK guide is written for Pokémon TCG submissions, but the principles apply to other trading cards too. For the full grading process, see our card grading UK overview.
Before you pack: sort and record
- Complete your grading submission exactly as your order requires—card identity, service, add-ons.
- Photograph high-value cards both in and out of the sleeve for your own records (not required, but advisable).
- Double check you are not including any fake items (for example, proxies or custom prints—Imperium grades official TCG products only).
Sleeves and inner protection
Penny sleeve first
A soft sleeve that fits closely reduces surface rub when you insert into semi-rigid or top-loader holders.
Semi-rigid
Use a semi-rigid card protector that stops the card from bending. The card should not rattle—snug is good; crushed is not.
Team bags (optional)
A resealable outer around the rigid holder keeps dust and moisture out and gives you a smooth surface to tape against without sticking tape to the sleeve opening.
Padding
- Cardboard sandwich: two pieces of clean, flat corrugated cardboard, slightly larger than the semi-rigid, taped so the card cannot slide.
- Bubble wrap around the sandwich—not tight enough to bend the cardboard, but enough to absorb shocks.
The package should not feel flimsy.
Outer box
Use a small box, not a padded envelope alone, for anything you care about. Envelopes bend in letter sorting.
Fill void space with crumpled paper or additional bubble wrap so the card cannot slide or rattle.
Print off and add your order confirmation slip into the box.
Seal with strong tape.
UK postage choices
Tracked 24 / Tracked 48 (or equivalent courier tracking) is the baseline for graded-bound cards. Signed-for adds accountability on delivery.
Insurance is a personal choice but highly recommended: align declared value with the value of the cards you’re sending. Keep proof of postage.
Do not write “collectibles” or “valuable cards” in giant letters, discreet packaging attracts less unwanted attention.
Common mistakes
- Cards too loose in oversized top-loaders corner ding in transit.
- Thin envelopes: sorting machines are not gentle.
- Multiple raw cards in one sleeve: they damage each other in transit.
Conclusion
Rigid inner, padded outer, tracked UK post. Pack like the postal system is against you…your future grade starts with how the card arrives.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use a padded envelope to post cards for grading?
No. Use a small rigid box with tracked postage. Padded envelopes bend in sorting and are a common cause of corner damage in transit.
Do I need tracked postage for grading submissions?
Yes. Tracked Royal Mail or an equivalent courier service is the minimum we recommend for cards being sent for grading.
Can I send multiple raw cards in one sleeve?
No. Cards should be individually sleeved and protected. Multiple cards in one sleeve can rub against each other and cause damage.
