How to Grade Pokemon Cards

Card grading is the process of having a professional service evaluate the condition of your Pokemon card and assign it a numerical grade. Graded cards are sealed in tamper-proof cases (slabs) that protect the card and display the grade, making them more trusted for buying and selling.

The three major grading companies are PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator), CGC (Certified Guaranty Company), and BGS (Beckett Grading Services). PSA is the most popular for Pokemon cards, with its 10-point scale being the industry standard. A PSA 10 (Gem Mint) is the highest grade and commands the biggest premiums.

CGC uses a similar 10-point scale but includes half-point grades (like 9.5). CGC also offers subgrades for centering, corners, edges, and surface. BGS also provides subgrades and is well-known for its 'Black Label' 10, which requires perfect 10s in all four categories — extremely rare and valuable.

To submit cards for grading, create an account on the grading company's website, fill out a submission form, and mail your cards in protective packaging. Turnaround times vary from a few weeks (for premium tiers) to several months (for economy tiers). Costs range from $15-30 per card for economy service to $100+ for rush service.

Not every card is worth grading. Consider grading if: the card is valuable enough that a high grade significantly increases its price, the card appears to be in near-mint or mint condition, or you plan to sell the card and want to maximize buyer confidence. A common rule of thumb: if the grading cost is more than 10% of the expected graded value, it may not be worth it.

When preparing cards for grading, inspect for centering (is the image evenly bordered?), surface scratches or print lines, corner whitening or dings, and edge wear. Even small imperfections can drop a grade. Use a loupe or magnifying glass to inspect closely under bright light.