FAQ · Honest Answers
Transparency first.
We answer the questions collectors actually ask - including the ones we'd rather they didn't.
Shipping
Which carriers do you recommend?+
We recommend tracked and insured services from bpost, PostNL, DHL, UPS or FedEx. Always declare the full replacement value of your cards and keep the tracking number until you receive delivery confirmation from us.
Where do I ship my cards to?+
The atelier address is shared by email after you submit the intake form and receive the order confirmation. We do not publish the address publicly for security reasons.
Who is responsible during shipping?+
Vault Restoration is not responsible for loss or damage during transit to our facility. The carrier and your insurance cover the package until it is signed for at the atelier. From that moment forward, every card is fully insured while in our care and during the return shipment.
Pricing
How much does restoration cost?+
Our packages range from €59 (Solo Restoration) to €349 (Advanced Restoration Bundle). Add-ons such as Fast Return (+€25), Slab Break Open (+€20) and Multi-Cycle Restoration (+€35) are charged per card. Complete pricing is on the Services page.
Do I pay before or after the work?+
Payment is collected at order placement, after a free initial review of your photos and intake form. This locks your slot in the queue and confirms the agreed scope of work.
Are restorations refundable?+
Restoration services are non-refundable once work has started. If, after assessment, we determine that restoration is not in your best interest, we refund the full amount and return your cards at no cost.
Restoration
What types of damage can be repaired?+
Surface scratches, scuffs, fingerprints, light edge wear, minor corner softness, indentations, print line imperfections, surface contamination and humidity-related deformation. Deep creases, missing material and severe water damage cannot be fully restored - we will tell you honestly during assessment.
Is the restoration detectable?+
Our work is conservative and undetectable to the naked eye. Each grading company (PSA, CGC, BGS, SGC) applies its own policy on restoration; we discuss the appropriate approach for your specific grading objective before we start.
Do I receive a report?+
Yes. Every order includes a restoration summary report with before/after photos under magnification and a description of the work performed. The report is sent by email with your tracking number.
Grading
Will my card grade higher after restoration?+
Restoration improves the physical condition that graders evaluate. Most well-selected cards see a measurable uplift, but no specific grade can be guaranteed - grading remains subjective and includes factors beyond surface condition.
Which grading companies do you prepare for?+
We prepare cards for PSA, CGC, BGS and SGC submissions. We can also advise on which company is most appropriate for your specific card based on era, set and current market preferences.
Can you open a graded slab safely?+
Yes. Our Slab Break Open service (+€20/card) opens PSA, CGC, Beckett and other major slabs safely. Note: once a slab is opened, the original grade is permanently void.