Card grading is a big decision for collectors. However, not every card should be graded. In fact, many collectors waste money on unnecessary grading. Therefore, this guide helps you make smart choices. Moreover, you’ll learn when to grade and when to skip it.
For example, if you collect cards, you know this feeling well:
You pull a card.
It looks clean.
Your brain immediately says: “This could be a PSA 10.”
However, when you check card grading prices, you hesitate. Suddenly, you’re not so sure.
So the real question isn’t “Can this card get graded?”
It’s “Should it?”
Understanding Card Grading
I’ve made both good and bad grading decisions. This post is what I wish I had read before I sent my first stack of cards to PSA.
Grading only makes sense if one of these is true:
What Does “Worth Grading” Mean?
- The card will be worth significantly more graded
- You want it graded for personal collection reasons
- The card is rare or condition-sensitive
If none of those apply, grading is probably a mistake.
Grading isn’t magic. It doesn’t turn a $5 card into a $500 card just because it’s in a slab.
Step 1: Check the Raw Value
Before you even think about grading, look up the card raw, not graded.
Ask:
- What does this card sell for ungraded?
- How often does it sell?
- Is demand actually there?
If the card is selling for:
- $1–$10 raw → grading almost never makes sense
- $15–$30 raw → maybe, but only if condition is strong
- $50+ raw → now we’re talking
A lot of collectors skip this step because it’s boring. Don’t.
Step 2: Look at PSA 9 vs PSA 10 Prices
This is the most important part.
Search sold listings and compare:
- PSA 9 price
- PSA 10 price
If a PSA 10 is only worth a little more than raw, the risk isn’t worth it.
Example:
- Raw: $20
- PSA 9: $25
- PSA 10: $40
That’s dangerous territory. One tiny flaw and you’re upside down.
Grading only makes sense when the PSA 10 premium is meaningful.
Step 3: Be Brutally Honest About Condition
This is where most people lose money.
Ask yourself:
- Any whitening on corners?
- Any surface scratches?
- Any print lines?
- Centering off even slightly?
Modern cards are tougher than people think. PSA 10s are not automatic.
If you’re saying: “It’s basically perfect” …it probably isn’t.
A safer mindset is: “What’s the worst grade this could realistically get?”
If that grade still makes sense financially, grading is reasonable.
Step 4: Factor in ALL Costs (Not Just the Fee)
Grading isn’t just the submission cost.
You also pay for:
- Shipping to the grader
- Return shipping
- Insurance
- Time (this matters)
If grading costs you $20–$30 total, that money has to be earned back.
A card going from $25 raw to $35 graded is not a win. It’s a wash at best.
Step 5: Timing Matters More Than You Think
Some cards are worth grading right now. Some cards are worth grading never. Some cards are worth grading later.
Examples:
- Hot rookies → risky, hype-driven
- Established stars → safer
- Short-print or numbered cards → better candidates
- Base cards → usually bad bets
Grading during hype feels good but often ends badly.
When Grading DOES Make Sense
Grading is usually smart when:
- The card is rare or condition-sensitive
- PSA 10s sell for 2x–5x raw
- You’re confident the card is clean
- You’re patient enough to wait
It also makes sense if:
- You want it slabbed forever
- You’re building a personal collection
- Resale isn’t your main goal
Not every decision has to be about profit.
When Grading Is Usually a Mistake
Grading is usually a bad idea when:
- The card is easily replaceable
- Raw prices are low
- PSA 9 prices are weak
- You’re grading just because “everyone does”
Grading should be a decision, not a reflex.
The Mistake I See the Most
People grade cards they like, not cards that make sense.
That’s fine if it’s for your PC.
It’s a problem if you expect profit.
Liking a card doesn’t change math.
Final Thought: Ask the Right Question
Instead of asking: “Is this card worth grading?”
Ask: “What happens if this comes back a PSA 9?”
If that answer still works for you — financially or emotionally — then grading makes sense.
If it doesn’t, save your money and buy another card.
Why This Matters on Pack Smash
On Pack Smash, sellers keep more of what they earn.
That means grading decisions matter even more.
Less fees = smarter choices = better long-term collecting.
If you’re going to grade, do it with intention — not hope.
