Inside the Golf Ball Sorting Machine at Mail Order Golf

Behind every lake ball sold by Mail Order Golf is a vast operation built on scale, technology and sustainability.

The object sounds simple: recovering lake balls from courses around the world, sorting them with precision and redistributing them to golfers at a lower cost.

Lake balls are exactly what they sound like: golf balls recovered from lakes and water hazards. Rather than being left unused, they are collected, cleaned, graded and returned to the game. It is a more sustainable use of golf balls, reducing waste while giving golfers affordable access to premium models.

At the centre of this process is Mail Order Golf’s first-of-its-kind golf ball sorting machine. Capable of processing up to 60,000 balls a day, the machine demonstrates the scale of Mail Order Golf’s distribution and the scale and reach of the trading company and distribution network of Second Chance.

The machine handles millions of lake balls every year. That volume of stock means customers can find the make, model and grade they are looking for.

The machine uses compressed air and eight cameras to inspect and separate golf balls at speed. Each ball is analysed and sorted by make, model and quality, creating a consistent process that supports the grading system customers see online.

This technology is what allows Mail Order Golf to manage huge volumes while still giving buyers confidence that each pack reflects the grade they choose.

Lake balls are sold in five grades that are arranged by the machine: Mint, Grade A, Very Good, Practice and Refinished. Each grade gives golfers a clear choice depending on budget, playing standard and intended use.

Mint balls are the best available. They have the appearance and feel of a brand-new ball and may have only been used once. Some may carry a logo or ink mark, but they are expected to be in very close to perfect condition.

Grade A balls are lightly used and offer excellent value for money. They may show minor surface marks, discolouration or ink marks, and some may carry logos, but they will have no cuts or creases. Like Mint balls, this grade does not include refinished, X-Out or practice balls.

Very Good balls are ideal for golfers who want reliable performance at a lower price. These balls may have ink marks, scuffs and some slight discolouration. They may occasionally include a ball stamped ‘practice’, making them a strong choice for social rounds, summer evenings or casual play when golfers may want to save their best balls for competition.

Practice grade balls are still in very playable condition but may show heavier scuffing and more noticeable discolouration. Unlike some lower-grade lake balls on the market, Mail Order Golf’s Practice balls contain no cuts or creases, making them an exceptional-value option for training, practice rounds and everyday use.

Refinished balls have been resurfaced and restored into high-quality golf balls at a fraction of the original cost. This gives players another affordable option while supporting the wider circular model behind the business.