How to Submit a Card to Ace Grading (UK Beginner’s Guide — 2026)

So you’ve pulled a card.

You’re staring at it thinking:

“Is this worth grading?”

If you’re a UK collector, Ace Grading has quickly become one of the best options available. We submit regularly ourselves, and this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step in the simplest way possible.

No jargon. No gatekeeping.

Just a straightforward guide to getting your card slabbed.

Why UK Collectors Are Choosing Ace Grading

Ace Grading is based in the UK, which already solves one big issue for British collectors: you don’t have to ship your cards overseas.

Here’s why many collectors (including us at PokeMoles) use them:

• ✅ UK-based (no international postage stress)
• ✅ Reasonably priced compared to US grading companies
• ✅ Faster turnaround for UK customers
• ✅ Cleaner, clearer slab plastic than PSA
• ✅ Multiple label options including full art designs

The slab quality in particular stands out. The plastic feels solid and crystal clear, and the overall presentation looks modern and sharp.

The Label Options (And What We Recommend)

Ace offers three main label styles:

1️⃣ Full Art “Ace Labels”

These extend the artwork of the card into the label itself. They’re bold and eye-catching, especially for Pokémon cards with strong colour palettes.

1999 Base Set Diglett in an Ace Grading slab with a ‘full art’ Ace label

2️⃣ Two-Tone Colour Match Labels

This is our current personal favourite at PokeMoles (we flip between Ace & Colour Match labels!).

The two-tone option matches the colour scheme of the card but keeps the design clean and understated.

It:

• Looks premium
• Doesn’t distract from the artwork
• Is well priced
• Keeps the focus on the masterpiece — your card

2024 Surging Sparks Dugtrio in an Ace Grading slab with a ‘colour match’ label

3️⃣ Standard Basic Label

Clean, simple, traditional grading label.

Perfect if you prefer a more minimal look.

If you’re unsure, the two-tone colour match is a safe and classy choice.

2024 Surging Sparks Dugtrio in an Ace Grading slab with a ‘standard’ label

Step-By-Step: How to Submit a Card to Ace Grading

Here’s the simple version.

Step 1 — Create an Account

Head to the Ace Grading website and create an account.

Step 2 — Start a Submission

Select:

• Your service tier
• Your label style
• The number of cards you’re sending

Ace will handle identification and processing once they receive your cards.

Step 3 — Use Discount Code MOLES (Don’t Forget This)

Before checkout, enter:

MOLES

This gives you 5% off your entire order.

If you’re submitting multiple cards, that saving adds up quickly.

Step 4 — Pack Your Cards Securely

Make sure your cards are protected properly for transit.

The key things are:

• Keep the surface protected (penny sleeves as a bare minimum!)
• Prevent movement inside the package (placing two pieces of cardboard on either side of the card and taping will help)
• Use secure outer packaging

You’re sending something valuable — treat it that way.

Step 5 — Post It (Tracked)

Use a tracked postal service for peace of mind. We use Royal Mail Special Delivery as it comes with £750 insurance as standard.

Once Ace receives your cards, your submission status can be monitored through your account dashboard.

How Long Does It Take?

Turnaround times vary depending on service tier and demand, but being UK-based means you avoid international shipping delays.

Always check the latest estimated turnaround times on their website before submitting.

Is Ace Grading Worth It?

If you’re in the UK and:

• Don’t want international shipping hassle
• Want strong slab presentation
• Like modern label aesthetics
• Want a competitively priced option

Then yes — it makes a lot of sense.

At PokeMoles, we submit consistently and encourage grading cards you genuinely love, not just the ones you think might spike in value.

Grading isn’t only about resale.

Sometimes it’s about preserving a moment.

Final Thoughts

Submitting to Ace Grading is straightforward once you’ve done it once.

Create your account. Choose your label style. Use code MOLES for 5% off. Pack securely. Send tracked.

Then enjoy the wait.

Because there’s nothing quite like seeing your card return in a fresh slab.

Thank you for reading.

• The PokeMoles ❤️🖤🤍