How to Scan Trading Cards: The Ultimate Guide

Whether you’re new to the hobby or have been collecting cards for years, digitization is a great way to keep tabs on your collection without worrying about unnecessarily damaging it. Here are just a few reasons why scanning trading cards is worth it.

Benefits of digitization

• Avoid damaging your valuable cards: Physical sports and trading cards are delicate and damage easily. Each time you handle one, there’s a chance you could diminish its value. Once digitized, you can admire your collection without worry.
• Ease of organization: Serious collectors know that organizing thousands of cards is a hassle. With a digital collection, you can easily group cards by type, player, year, or other categories.
• Determine the value of your collection: Getting a detailed scan of your highest-value cards allows you to examine them up close and directly compare them to cards of similar quality listed on the internet.

There’s more to consider when it comes to purchasing a digital scanner than cost, especially if you want to keep your trading cards in mint condition. These features will ensure you get the best possible image while helping keep your card collection undamaged — here are a few tips to get you started.

Types of scanners

• Flatbed scanners feature a glass bed with a covered lid. Scanning cards with a flatbed is slower, but you can scan multiple cards simultaneously.
• Contactless scanners operate similarly to flatbed scanners but use an overhead scanning tool to digitize cards laid out below.
• Automated document feeder (ADF) scanners can speed up scanning speeds thanks to a series of rollers. However, avoid using non-straight path scanners to prevent bending and possibly damaging your collection.

Trading cards are more delicate than other objects you might have scanned before — a single blemish can drastically impact their value. The following will ensure your cards look sharp before and after you scan them.

Scanning tips:

• For flatbed/overhead scanners: While not necessary, you can remove cards from their plastic sleeves to get higher-quality, more accurate scans. If scanning multiple cards at a time, leave a quarter-inch gap between them.
• ADF scanners: Avoid non-straight path scanners. A straight path ensures the cards pass through without bending. Keep cards sleeved for maximum protection.