How to Grade Pokémon Cards [Collector's Guide]
Updated on March 16, 2026
In the world of Pokémon collecting, having your cards graded can make a significant difference in their value and authenticity. Graded Pokémon cards are appraised for their condition and quality, providing a standardized assessment that collectors and investors trust.
If you’re new to the hobby or looking to maximize the value of your collection, understanding how to get Pokémon cards graded is essential. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, ensuring your cards are in the best hands and you know exactly what to expect. Finding trading cards for sale is just the beginning; grading them can truly unlock their full potential.
Is Grading Pokémon Cards Worth It?
The first question many collectors ask when collecting Pokemon cards is whether it’s worth the effort and cost to have their Pokémon cards graded. The short answer is yes, especially if you possess rare or valuable cards. Grading transforms your raw card into a certified collectible, often increasing its market value significantly. For instance, a Base Set Charizard in mint condition can see its value skyrocket when professionally graded as a Gem Mint 10. The assurance that comes with a graded card also makes it more appealing to potential buyers and traders, as the grade verifies the card’s condition, authenticity, and worth.
Grading Pokémon cards offers several advantages to collectors and resellers:
Increased Value: Professionally graded cards typically fetch higher prices than ungraded ones.
Authentication: Grading services verify the authenticity of the card, distinguishing real vs. fake Pokémon cards.
Protection: Graded cards are encased in a protective holder, safeguarding them from damage.
Market Trust: A graded card’s condition is universally recognized, making transactions easier.
By understanding these benefits, you can make informed decisions about getting Pokemon cards graded and, specifically, which cards to grade, enhancing both your collection and your investment.
The Grading Scale: From Newbie to Near Mint
Grading services use a scale to evaluate the condition of a card, typically from 1 to 10. A Gem Mint 10 is the highest grade, indicating a card in perfect condition. Here’s a breakdown of common grades:
Gem Mint 10: Perfect condition with no flaws.
Mint 9: Nearly perfect with minor imperfections.
Near Mint 8: Very minor wear visible.
Excellent 7: Noticeable wear but still in good condition.
Good 6: More pronounced wear and imperfections.
Lower grades (1-5): Significant wear and damage, suitable for collectors looking for affordability over condition.
Familiarity with the grading scale helps you set realistic expectations for your cards and appreciate the effort involved in maintaining high grades.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Pokémon Cards Professionally Graded
Grading Pokémon cards involves evaluating condition, selecting a grading company, and properly preparing your submission to ensure the best possible outcome.
Step 1: Determine if the Card Is Worth Grading
Before submitting a Pokémon card for grading, evaluate whether the potential resale value justifies the grading cost.
Grading is typically worthwhile if the card is:
Vintage
First Edition or limited print
A popular chase card
In near-mint or better condition
Already selling for strong prices ungraded
Avoid grading:
Heavily played cards
Common bulk cards
Cards with creases or dents
Cards worth less than grading + shipping costs
Rare Pokémon cards — especially early-set holographics and limited editions — tend to see the biggest value increase when graded. Always compare recent sales of graded vs. raw versions to estimate potential upside before submitting.
Step 2: Examine the Card Like a Grader
Professional grading companies use magnification, controlled lighting, and a multi-point inspection process that looks at four key aspects of a card:
Centering: Centering refers to how evenly the artwork is positioned within the card’s borders. Uneven borders on the front or back can detract from the card’s overall grade, even if the other aspects are in excellent condition. Graders measure centering as a ratio (for example, 60/40 or 70/30). The closer to perfectly balanced, the higher the score.
Corners: Another critical aspect is the condition of the corners. Sharp, crisp corners indicate a card in mint condition, while bent or worn corners can significantly lower the grade. Inspect your cards closely, as even minor imperfections can impact the overall grade.
Edges: Graders inspect all four edges for whitening, chipping, fraying, or rough cuts. Clean, sharp edges with no visible nicks or fraying score the highest. Even minor edge whitening—especially on dark-backed Pokémon cards—can reduce a card’s grade. Using protective sleeves and handling cards with care can help preserve edge quality.
Surfaces: Graders inspect both sides for scratches, print lines, dents, stains, and gloss issues. Cards kept in protective cases and handled minimally tend to have better surface conditions. Even small surface flaws can significantly reduce a grade. Viewing the card under bright light at different angles helps reveal imperfections.
Even small flaws can drop a card from a 10 to a 9.
Step 3: Choose a Grading Company
The three most recognized grading companies for Pokémon cards are:
Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA): Known for their extensive experience and trusted grading scale, PSA is a popular choice among collectors.
Beckett Grading Services (BGS): Offers a detailed grading system and is known for its sub-grades, providing an in-depth analysis of each card’s condition.
Certified Guaranty Company (CGC): Although newer to the Pokémon card grading scene, CGC has quickly gained a reputation for thoroughness and reliability.
When deciding where to get your Pokémon cards graded, consider the following:
Reputation: Look for services with a strong track record and positive reviews.
Turnaround Time: Some services offer faster grading for an additional fee.
Specialization: Certain services may have more expertise in Pokémon TCG cards compared to sports cards.
Step 4: Select the Appropriate Service Tier
Grading companies offer tiers based on:
Declared card value
Speed of turnaround
Additional features (such as subgrades)
Choose the lowest service tier that matches your card’s value. Higher tiers increase cost but may reduce wait time.
Step 5: Prepare the Card for Submission
Proper protection prevents damage during shipping and handling. If anything happens to the card during the shipping process, that can affect your card’s final grade, so make sure to use:
A soft penny sleeve
A semi-rigid card holder (often called a Card Saver)
Avoid tight top loaders unless the grading company specifically allows them. Never ship a raw card without protection.
Step 6: Complete the Online Submission Form
Create an account on the grading company’s website and enter:
Card name
Set and year
Card number
Variant (holo, reverse holo, promo, etc.)
Declared value
Print the submission form and follow any specific packing instructions provided. Accuracy matters, as incorrect information can delay processing.
Step 7: Package and Ship Securely
To prevent movement during shipping:
Stack semi-rigid holders between two pieces of cardboard
Secure lightly (do not compress tightly)
Wrap in bubble wrap
Place inside a sturdy box with padding
Include printed submission paperwork
Use tracked and insured shipping to protect your precious cargo, especially for high-value cards.
Step 8: Wait for Grading and Review Results
After the company receives your cards, they will:
Log the submission
Authenticate the card
Evaluate condition
Assign a grade (1–10 scale)
Seal the card in a tamper-evident protective slab
Once returned, store graded cards upright in a cool, dry environment, away from direct sunlight and humidity, to preserve their long-term condition.
How Much Does it Cost to Grade a Pokémon Card?
The cost of grading a Pokémon card varies depending on the grading service and the card’s value. Basic grading fees can range from $15 to $50 per card. However, for cards of high declared value, such as a 1st Edition Base Set Charizard, the cost can increase significantly due to insurance and processing fees.
Below is a general comparison of the average costs and turnaround times for each of the main grading companies:
| Grading Company | Typical Starting Cost | Turnaround Time | Best For |
| PSA | $20–$30+ per card | 1-4 months | Resale value & market recognition |
| Beckett (BGS) | $25–$40+ per card | Varies | Subgrades & detailed evaluation |
| CGC | $15–$30+ per card | 1-3 months | Competitive pricing |
It’s essential to evaluate the potential increase in value versus the grading cost to determine if it’s a worthwhile investment.
Factors Influencing Grading Costs:
Service Level: Standard, express, or premium services vary in cost.
Card Value: High-value cards may incur additional fees.
Membership: Some services offer membership discounts.
Understanding these factors can help you choose the right grading service and manage your budget effectively.
DIY vs. Professional Grading
While some collectors might consider grading their cards themselves to save money, professional grading services offer several advantages:
Expertise: Professional graders have extensive training and experience, ensuring a consistent and accurate evaluation.
Certification: Professionally graded cards come with a certificate of authenticity and a protective case, adding value and protection.
Market Trust: Buyers and sellers trust professional grades, making transactions smoother and more reliable.
If you still prefer to assess your cards yourself, use a magnifying glass to spot minor flaws and use online resources to compare with professionally graded examples.
Grow Your Prized Collection at ShopGoodwill.com
ShopGoodwill.com offers a treasure trove of trading cards for sale, including Pokémon cards. You can find starter decks, booster packs, or maybe even unique and rare cards to add to your collection, often at a fraction of the cost you’d pay elsewhere. Whether you’re an avid collector or starting a new collection, ShopGoodwill.com provides a diverse selection that caters to every collector’s needs.
Grading Pokémon cards is more than just a step in the collecting process; it’s a way to authenticate and preserve the value of your treasured items. By understanding how to get Pokémon cards graded and the criteria involved, you can make informed decisions that enhance your collection's worth and appeal. Remember, the journey of collecting Pokémon cards is not just about the cards themselves but the stories and memories they hold.
Sources:
"Pokemania Infects Mainstream." Antique Trader. https://www.antiquetrader.com/antiques-news/pokemania-infects-mainstream
Haithman, Diane. "Bigger than Baseball, Pokémon Cards Are Rocking the Collectibles Industry." Los Angeles Times. https://www.latimes.com/socal/daily-pilot/news/story/2024-05-18/bigger-than-baseball-pokemon-cards-are-rocking-the-collectibles-industry
McWhertor, Michael. "What Is the Rarest Pokémon Card?" HowStuffWorks. https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/what-is-the-rarest-pokemon-card.htm
Sykes, Jeffrey. "How Pokémon Cards Have Eclipsed Baseball Cards, Thanks to Logan Paul." Fast Company. https://www.fastcompany.com/91071382/pokemon-cards-eclipsed-baseball-cards-logan-paul
"Trading Card Grading." PSA. https://www.psacard.com/services/tradingcardgrading