The following grading standards are to be used when describing condition of train articles. All grading standards pertain to condition of finish. Missing or broken parts are to be stated in any category. Motorized/electrical articles are considered un-runnable/non-operable unless otherwise labeled. All restored or refinished items are to be conspicuously labeled as such. No grade above EXCELLENT should be applied to a restored or repainted item.
| Grade | Description |
| NEW | Absolutely all original and unused. |
| LIKE NEW | Little sign of use, no nicks, scratches or blemishes; original condition throughout. |
| EXCELLENT | Minute nicks or scratches, no rust. |
| VERY GOOD | Some scratches, NO dents, warpage or rust. |
| GOOD | Some scratches, dents and/or minor warpage. |
| FAIR | Well-worn and used; rusted and/or warped. |
| POOR | Heavily scratched, dented and warped; used for parts. |
| Grade | Description |
| NEW | Original, complete with inner liner and with NO fading, wear or water marks. |
| LIKE NEW | Original, complete with little signs of fading or wear. |
| EXCELLENT | Complete with some signs of fading or wear, NO unoriginal tape/water marks. |
| VERY GOOD | Complete with some tears/water marks and heavy wear. Use of unoriginal tape. |
| GOOD | Missing flap or piece, large tears, watermarks or mildew, very heavy wear. |
| FAIR | Missing flap(s) or piece(s), heavy mildew or discoloration, well worn and used. |
| POOR | Reproduction or non-original box |
Members are encouraged to work out trade details. Should any LCCA member to member transaction not be resolved, it can be elevated to the office of Immediate Past President. The Immediate Past President will arbitrate disputes between members.
