I have over 25 years experience grading records of all kinds. Before I assign a grade, I first ensure that it is carefully cleaned. All items are examined under multiple light sources. When in doubt, I downgrade. I always keep one question in mind: If I were to buy this record, would the condition meet my own expectations?

The records I stock primarily range from NM to VG++ and these are visually graded. For VG+ and lower, passages are sometimes played and further scrutinized. Jacket & picture sleeves are graded first, then vinyl. Flaws are described and often scanned. The reason I use so few grades is simple What exactly is a EX+ or VG- record anyhow? Fewer grades are easy to understand and  honest.  My goal is to deliver customer satisfaction!

Grading is an objective art that I have learned from years of experience. I stand by it, and the feeback from customers world-wide speaks volumes. All vinyl comes in new acid-free paper inner-sleeves / or original vintage record company sleeve (when in stock). All jackets & pictures sleeves are separated from vinyl and bagged in new PVC bags to prevent damage in transit. 10 & 12-inch records are packed in sturdy new cardboard mailer. 7-inch & smaller formats are tightly packed between panels of sturdy recycled corrugated cardboard. 
                                                                                          GRADE SCALE
SS / New Still sealed or new release uncirculated or warehouse stock. No signs of damage. May have a delete mark, price sticker
M Mint. This is where I begin the downgrading process. This grade is not used because vintage circulated records are never quite perfect                                                               
NM Near Mint. Plays great, used but barely. Vinyl may have light scuff marks from handling & play. Labels and cover may have sticker, small writing, ink stamp. Cover may also have light creasing, wear, delete mark, discoloration or color fade. Overall these will all be minimal.
VG++ Very good. Has light scuffs, scratches and/or wear. Minor crackle is audible but still sounds nice on playback. Sleeve may have wear larger writing, small tear, split seams/tape                                                         
VG+ Lower Mid-range. A well enjoyed record that is another step down with obvious scratches or marks that produce audible crackle. Cover may be markedly worn, or damaged (water ripple, heavy ring wear, long split seams / tape, stains, dirt, discoloration and repair attempts).
VG   Whipped but worth owning. May play poorly but will not skip under 2 g weight. Jacket is shot, seams no longer bind front to back cover. Labels may be heavily damaged or off. Fine for starters        
SALVAGE grade ranges from GOOD (will play)  to  CRAP (will not play). Only used for obscenely rare or one-of-a-kind item. Have free wall space?  Get a frame and give a dead gem a second life!