Guide on how to properly grade Pokémon cards

TCG Grading Guide: Pokémon, Yu-gi-oh!, and more.

With the growing interest in collectible cards, more and more people are opting to grade their cards to ensure their value and authenticity. This process not only helps protect your cards but can also increase their market value. In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about how to grade your cards, whether they are from Pokémon, Magic, Dragon Ball, or other popular games.

Table of Contents

1. What is card grading?
2. Benefits of grading
3. Cards suitable for grading
4. Factors evaluated during the grading process
5. Scoring systems used
6. Where to send your cards for grading
7. Preparing and submitting cards for grading with CGC
8. How much does card grading cost?
9. CGC vs. PSA: Which to choose for TCG?
10. Final tips

1. What is card grading?

The card grading process consists of a professional evaluation carried out to verify the authenticity and condition of a collectible card. Specialized companies meticulously analyze aspects such as centering, edges, and the card's surface, assigning a grade ranging from 1 (poor condition) to 10 (perfect). The card is returned in a protective plastic case with a certificate confirming its grade.

2. Benefits of grading

By grading your cards, you not only protect them from future damage but can also increase their market value. Professionally graded cards are often more sought after by collectors, as the grade gives them a more tangible value. However, it's important to assess whether the card's value justifies the grading process, as a low grade could negatively affect its price.

3. Cards you can grade

Grading is not limited to just one type of card. You can submit standard-sized cards (63 mm x 88 mm) from well-known collections like Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, Dragon Ball Super, Yu-Gi-Oh, Digimon, Final Fantasy, Naruto, among others. These games are popular in the collecting world and have high demand.

4. Factors evaluated during grading

When you submit a card for evaluation, companies focus on various aspects that affect the overall quality of the piece. These include:

• Authenticity: Verification that the card is genuine and not a copy.
• Centering: Analysis of how the image is positioned within the card's border.
• Surface: Review for scratches, smudges, or visible damage on the front and back.
• Edges and corners: Damaged corners or bent edges negatively affect the grade.

5. Scoring systems used

Each grading company uses a scoring system to classify cards, which is usually divided into categories ranging from the lowest to the best condition. Here's a general breakdown of common scores:

6. Where to send your cards for grading?

There are various companies specializing in card grading. Some of the most well-known include PSA Card Grading and Beckett Grading in the USA, as well as European Grading in Spain. At Otakuya, we work with CGC, one of the world's leading certification companies, using advanced technology and guaranteeing quality.

What is CGC?

CGC (Certified Guaranty Company) is a company specializing in certifying and grading collectible cards, ensuring their authenticity, condition, and market value. Originally famous for comics, CGC has also expanded its expertise to Trading Card Games, providing a reliable system for rare and high-value cards.

Benefits of certifying your TCG cards with CGC

• Physical protection: Prevents accidental damage and wear.
• Resale value: Certified cards typically fetch higher prices in auctions and private sales.
• Buyer confidence: Certification ensures authenticity and condition, building trust in the market.
• Historical record: Each certified card is registered and documented, ideal for long-term collections.

7. Preparing and submitting cards for grading with CGC

Proper preparation is key to ensuring your cards arrive in optimal condition at the evaluation center. Make sure to protect each card with the following steps:

1. Select the "Add to cart" option for this service according to the number of cards you want to grade.
2. Place each card inside a thin sleeve.
3. Add a Card Saver (semi-rigid sleeve open on one side) for extra protection. Do not use a Toploader.
4. Do not seal the top of the sleeve with adhesive tape or any other type of seal.
5. Place all protected cards between two pieces of cardboard larger than the cards so they remain firm.
6. Secure the cardboard with elastic bands (without over-tightening) or use a little tape to keep them closed.
7. Include your order number followed by # on a small piece of paper.
8. Add packing material such as bubble wrap or foam and place everything inside a sturdy, well-padded box.
9. Send the package only via Correos. Do not use Correos Express, Seur, MRW, Tipsa, or other services.
10. The shipping address must be as indicated in the name of Otakuya.

8. Grading prices and fees

The cost of grading depends on the company and the type of service you choose. Fees can vary based on demand and the volume of cards submitted. It is advisable to compare prices and choose an option that suits your needs, also considering the waiting time and the service offered. 

Here are some of the most important factors to consider:

8.1. Service type and processing time

Most grading companies offer different service levels, which vary depending on how long it takes to process the cards. Prices are generally linked to how quickly you want to receive your graded cards. This is the most common example:

• Standard service: The basic grading service can take between 30 and 90 business days. This is generally the most economical service, with fees around €27 per card, depending on the company.

8.2. Grading level

The cost can also depend on the card's value and the desired grading level. For high-value or limited-edition cards, fees may be higher. Some companies may offer tiered pricing depending on the score you expect to achieve for each card:

• Common cards: For cards from popular games like Pokémon, Magic, or Yu-Gi-Oh, basic fees for standard-level cards are lower. Typically, they will cost between €10 and €20.
• Rare or high-demand cards: If you are sending high-value or rare cards, such as first editions, special event cards, or those with high grading potential, the grading cost is usually higher, potentially reaching €25 or more per card.

In the case of CGC, whether it's a common or rare card, the fee will always be around €27.

8.3. Shipping and insurance

Don't forget that you'll also need to consider shipping costs. Shipping collector cards must be secure, which usually means you'll need insurance to cover the value of the cards during transit. Shipping costs can vary between €8 and €20, depending on the service and insurance chosen.

Please note that the insurance price will be around 2% of the order value.

9. CGC vs PSA: Which to choose for TCG?

While PSA is also popular for grading cards, CGC distinguishes itself with its expertise in sturdy encapsulations, clear grading system, and reliable documentation. Many collectors opt for CGC for cards they wish to preserve long-term, while PSA remains strong in quick auctions.

You can grade your cards with CGC at this link.

10. Final tips on grading prices

• Conduct thorough research on grading companies. Make sure the one you choose has good references and offers suitable service for the type of cards you wish to evaluate.
• Compare prices between different companies. While cost is important, so are reputation and the service they offer.
• Consider the card's value before sending it for grading. If the card has little value, the grading cost may not be worth it.
• Stay updated on fees, as grading companies may change their prices depending on demand and the market.

Don't forget that at Otakuya, we answer all your questions, and you can contact us at any time to grade your Pokémon cards or any other license.