How Much Does it Cost to Get a Card Graded?

By Eliud Alano March 19, 2024 03:42

Collecting trading cards, whether they are sports cards, Pokémon cards, or other collectibles, has become a popular hobby for many enthusiasts.

One aspect of card collecting that has gained prominence in recent years is the grading of these cards.

Card grading involves assessing the condition and authenticity of a card, and assigning it a grade that reflects its overall quality.

But the cost of getting a card graded can vary based on several factors.

So, together with Fan Arch, let's explore the intricacies of card grading costs, including the different grading services available, the factors that influence grading costs, and some typical price ranges for getting a card graded.

Understanding Card Grading Services

Before delving into the costs of card grading, it's essential to understand the different grading services available to collectors.

Several reputable companies offer grading services for trading cards, with the two most prominent being Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) and Beckett Grading Services (BGS).

PSA and BGS are known for their expertise in grading sports cards, while other companies like Certified Guaranty Company (CGC) specialize in grading Pokémon and other trading cards. Each grading service has its own fee structure, which can impact the overall cost of getting a card graded.

Factors Influencing Grading Costs

The cost of getting a card graded depends on a variety of factors, including the grading company, the type of card being graded, the card's potential value, and the desired turnaround time. Let's examine these factors in more detail:

Grading Company: As mentioned earlier, different grading companies have varying fee structures. PSA, BGS, and CGC each have their own pricing tiers based on the declared value of the card and the desired turnaround time.
Type of Card: The type of card being graded can also influence the cost. For instance, sports cards may have different pricing compared to Pokémon cards due to the expertise required to assess each type accurately.
Card Value: The potential value of the card being graded is a significant factor in determining the cost. Higher-value cards typically incur higher grading fees, as the grading process may involve more thorough evaluation and security measures.
Turnaround Time: Grading companies often offer different service levels with corresponding turnaround times, such as standard, express, and super express. Faster turnaround times usually come at a higher cost.

Typical Price Ranges for Card Grading

While the specific cost of getting a card graded can vary widely, there are some typical price ranges that collectors can expect based on the factors mentioned above.

It's important to note that these ranges are general estimates and can fluctuate based on the current market conditions and grading company policies.

PSA: PSA offers different pricing tiers based on the declared value of the card and the desired turnaround time. For example, the cost for grading a modern (post-1972) sports card valued at $100 through PSA ranges from $20 for the regular service to $300 for the super express service with a 2-day turnaround.
BGS: BGS also has tiered pricing based on the declared value of the card and the desired service level. A modern sports card with a declared value of $100 can cost between $17 for the standard service and $250 for the 2-day express service.
CGC: For Pokémon and other trading cards, CGC offers grading services with pricing based on the declared value and the desired turnaround time. The cost for grading a Pokémon card valued at $100 ranges from $25 for the standard service to $200 for the express service with a 2-day turnaround.

Additional Considerations

When considering the cost of getting a card graded, collectors should also factor in additional expenses such as shipping, insurance, and potential import duties or taxes, especially for international submissions.

These additional costs can contribute to the overall expense of card grading and should be accounted for when planning to have cards graded.

It's also important for collectors to be aware of the current turnaround times for grading services, as these can fluctuate based on the volume of submissions received by grading companies. Understanding the expected turnaround times can help collectors plan accordingly, especially if they have specific timelines in mind for their graded cards to be returned.

On the whole

The cost of getting a card graded can vary based on a multitude of factors, including the grading company, the type and value of the card, and the desired turnaround time.

Collectors should carefully consider these factors and research the current pricing and policies of grading services before submitting their cards for grading.

By understanding the costs involved and the various grading options available, collectors can make informed decisions when it comes to grading their valuable trading cards.

While the cost of card grading may add an additional expense to the hobby of collecting trading cards, many enthusiasts find that having their cards professionally graded not only adds value but also provides a sense of security and authenticity to their prized collectibles.

Understanding the costs and processes involved in card grading is crucial for collectors looking to enhance and preserve the value of their cherished trading card collections.