PSA Grading Funko for Beginners: What You Need to Know Before You Submit

Thinking about getting your Funko Pops graded by PSA? Whether you’re chasing that pristine PSA 10 or just want to protect your collection, understanding what PSA looks for is key. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before you submit your first Funko Pop — including how BOXEDVINYL25 can save you $25 on your first PSAcard.com grading order.

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Why Grade Funko Pops with PSA?

PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) is one of the most trusted names in collectibles grading. While they’re best known for sports cards and TCGs, PSA now offers Funko Pop grading — giving collectors:

• A professional condition assessment on a 1–10 scale

• Tamper-evident encapsulation for long-term protection

• Increased resale value for high-grade pieces

• Added authenticity verification for rare and exclusive Pops

Key Factors PSA Looks at for Funko Pops

Before you send in your Pop, check these areas carefully. PSA’s graders evaluate every detail.

1. Box Condition

Your Pop’s box isn’t just packaging — it’s part of the collectible’s value. PSA examines:

• Sharpness of corners — no dings, bends, or crushed edges

• Panel alignment — box panels should sit flush with no warping

• Surface wear — avoid pops with creases, dents, or color fading

Tip: Store Pops in rigid protectors (like PopShield-style cases) to prevent damage before grading.

2. Window Scuffs

The clear window on your Pop box is a big deal for grading. PSA checks for:

• Scratches or scuffs on the plastic

• Cloudiness or residue buildup

• Dents or warps in the window film

Tip: Hold the Pop up to a light source before submission — even light surface scuffs can knock you down a grade.

3. Sticker Alignment

Convention, chase, or retailer stickers add value — but only if they’re right.

• Straight placement is crucial — crooked stickers hurt aesthetics and possibly grades

• Factory originality — PSA may note if a sticker was replaced or tampered with

• Sticker condition — tears, peeling, or bubbles can hurt your score

Tip: Avoid trying to “fix” sticker placement yourself — PSA will spot alterations.

4. Figure Condition Inside the Box

While PSA doesn’t open the box, they do visually inspect the figure through the window:

• Paint flaws or factory defects

• Loose parts or accessories

• Misalignment (e.g., the figure leaning in the blister)

The PSA Grading Scale for Funko Pops

Just like with cards, Pops are graded from 1 (Poor) to 10 (Gem Mint):

• PSA 10 — Flawless in every way, factory-perfect

• PSA 9 — Minor, nearly invisible imperfections

• PSA 8 — Small visible flaws (light scuffs, slight box wear)

• Below PSA 8 — Noticeable wear, significant flaws, or damage

Submission Tips for First-Time Funko Graders

• Inspect with bright lighting — natural daylight works best

• Photograph your Pop before shipping — just in case of transit issues

• Double-box your shipment — outer box absorbs shocks

• Use rigid Pop protectors during transit

• Keep your PSA order number handy for tracking

Save $25 on Your First PSA Funko Submission

If you’re ready to send in your first Funko for grading, use promo code BOXEDVINYL25 at checkout on PSA’s site and get $25 off your first order. This discount is exclusive to new PSA submitters and works for Funko Pops, trading cards, comics, and more.

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Final Thoughts

Grading your Funko Pops with PSA isn’t just about getting a number — it’s about preserving your investment and enhancing your collection’s credibility. By inspecting your Pop’s box condition, window clarity, sticker alignment, and figure presentation, you’ll give yourself the best chance at a top-tier grade.

If you’re ready to start, remember: use BOXEDVINYL25 to save $25 on your first PSA submission and give your Funko the protection it deserves.