Trading cards are in huge demand all over the world right now. Old sports cards, Pokémon and Magic decks can be worth an eyewatering amount of money. But if you’re in the market to sell a prized card, you’ll definitely want to consider getting it professionally graded. So, lots of collectors are asking: What does it cost to do that?
Well, it’s not as simple as you’d think. The price can change based on a few things, like who grades it, how fast you want it back, what kind of card it is, and how much you say it’s worth. Grading eliminates all these factors, offering an accurate and objective view of a card’s condition.
This guide will break down those trading card grading costs for you. We’ll explain what your money gets you and take a look at how GetGraded sets its prices. Hopefully, it’ll help you figure out the best move for your prized cards.
Why Grade a Trading Card?
Before jumping into costs, it’s important to understand why grading matters. A graded card is authenticated, examined for quality and sealed in a tamper-proof slab. Grading simply means it receives a grade (1-10) and can be verified to be a legitimate card.
- Authentication: Ensures the card is not a counterfeit.
- Condition report: Cards are rated (typically on a scale of 1–10) based on centering, corners, edges and surface.
- Preservation: Protects the card from damage, commonly referred to as a slab.
- Market value boost: Graded cards often fetch higher prices on resale platforms and auctions.
Tired of seeking second opinions? Having your cards graded is a great way to protect you when dealing with buyers and sellers. The marketplace can be unsavoury for noobs and experts alike.
Trading Card Grading Cost: What Factors Affect It?
So, how much does it cost to grade a trading card? Different businesses offer similar services, with some mild differences. Understanding the costs associated with card grading will hopefully help you make an informed decision.
Grading Tier / Turnaround Time
Most grading companies offer several service tiers based on how quickly you want your card graded. Faster services are typically more expensive.
For example, GetGraded offers two core options:
- Standard Grading: Ideal for collectors not in a rush. This is the friendliest option when it comes to your bank account.
- Express Grading: Faster turnaround for those needing quick results. Ideal for cards being prepared for sale or time-sensitive showcases.
Number of Cards Submitted
Bulk submissions often mean discounted rates. If you’re sending in 10+ cards at once, you’ll generally pay less per card than you would for individual submissions. Sometimes it’s worth driving a hard bargain on price, especially if you intend to submit a big order.
Card Value
Some grading companies scale pricing based on the declared value of your card. High-value cards may require premium grading packages due to increased insurance or liability.
Add-On Services
Optional services such as sub-grades (detailed component scoring), autograph authentication, or custom labels may add to the total cost.
It’s great to get an overview of the factors at play when it comes to card grading. Transparency is the most important quality when deciding what service to opt for.
Get Graded Pricing: An Affordable, Transparent Option
GetGraded.com offers a streamlined, user-friendly approach to trading card grading. Designed for both beginner and veteran collectors, Get Graded provides clear pricing and a hassle-free submission process. Here’s how their pricing breaks down for US customers:
Standard Grading
- Price: $20 per card
- Turnaround: 20 business days (estimated)
- Includes: Professional grading, encapsulation, digital certificate, and tracking.
Express Grading
- Price: $35 per card
- Turnaround: 5 business days (estimated)
- Includes: Everything in standard plus priority processing.
You can find both options available directly on the GetGraded shop.
Additional Services
- Sub-Grades: $5 add-on (for centering, corners, edges, and surface).
- Custom Labels: Available upon request.
- Authentication Services: For autographed cards and collectibles.
There are no hidden fees, and U.S. customers can use GetGraded’s store locator to find participating drop-off locations if they’d prefer to visit in person.
How to Get Your Cards Graded with GetGraded
Still unsure about the card grading process? Companies may vary slightly, but the card grading journey typically looks something like this:
- Create an Account on GetGraded.com.
- Choose Your Grading Tier (Standard or Express).
- Select Any Add-Ons like sub-grades or labels.
- Package and Ship your cards (secure packaging recommended).
- Track Progress Online via your dashboard.
- Receive Your Slabbed Cards via tracked return shipping.
For more help, check out their guides on how to get your cards graded and what card grading is.
Is Grading Worth the Cost?
Whether or not grading is worth it depends on your unique circumstances and plans. A second opinion from a trusted peer or professional can be worth its weight in gold.
For Sellers
If you plan to sell your cards, grading often pays for itself. Buyers are more likely to trust a graded card’s condition and authenticity, and top-grade cards (Gem Mint 10s) can sell for 10x the raw value – or more.
For Collectors
Even if you’re not planning to sell, grading protects your investment. Cards kept in a GetGraded slab are secure, display-ready, and resistant to ageing and wear.
For Investors
As trading cards become alternative investments, professional grading adds a level of verification that’s essential for valuation, insurance and long-term ROI. It’s hard to time the market, but holding on to certain cards may be the sensible play.
Trading card markets can be brutal, but with more knowledge comes more power.
How GetGraded Compares to Other Grading Services
Several companies dominate the card grading space in the U.S., including PSA, Beckett (BGS), and CGC. Here’s how GetGraded holds up:
Feature | GetGrad ed | PSA | Beckett (BGS) | CGC |
Base Price | $15 | $19–$30+ | $18–$40+ | $15–$25+ |
Express Turnaround | 2-5 Days ($28) | 10–20 Days | 10–30 Days | 10–20 Days |
Sub-Grades Available | Yes ($5) | No | Yes (extra fee) | Yes |
Online Dashboard | Yes | Yes | Limited | Yes |
International Friendly | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Transparent Pricing | Very clear | Complex tiers | Variable pricing | Tiered pricing |
Tips to Maximize Your Grading Value
If you’re getting cards graded to increase resale value or for long-term investment, here are a few tips to ensure you’re making the most of your submission:
- Inspect Before Sending: Use a magnifying glass and soft cloth to spot scratches, whitening, or poor centering. Only submit cards in great shape unless they’re very rare.
- Use Card Savers: Store cards in semi-rigid card savers during shipping. This protects corners and reduces the risk of damage.
- Submit in Batches: Take advantage of economies of scale. Submitting 5 or more cards at once helps reduce shipping costs and may unlock bulk discounts.
Prioritize Value: Consider the potential graded value vs. grading cost. Using sites like Cardladder is a great way to track the market and see what similar graded cards sell for.
Final Thoughts: So, How Much Does It Cost to Grade a Trading Card?
Grading a trading card costs anywhere from $15 to $32 per card through GetGraded, depending on the service level you choose. Add-ons like sub-grades and custom labels can increase the price slightly, but the base costs are straightforward and competitive.
Compared to other services, GetGraded is affordable, transparent, and fast, making it a strong choice for U.S.-based collectors who want their cards authenticated and protected without hassle.
Thinking about your cards? Whether you collect for fun, sell them on, or see them as an investment, grading is one of the best things you can do. It locks in their value and helps them stand out in the booming trading card scene.
Visit GetGraded.com to start your submission, explore pricing, or locate a drop-off point near you. Don’t leave your collection’s value to chance – get it graded today!