So, you've got some sweet Pokemon cards, and you're thinking about getting them graded. That's fantastic! A PSA 5 or Beckett 5 grade can significantly increase the value of your collection. But before you send them off, you're probably wondering: How much will this cost me?
Let's break down the costs associated with grading your Pokemon cards, specifically aiming for that coveted 5 grade. Remember, a grade of 5 means the card shows minor imperfections, but it's still in decent shape.
Understanding Grading Costs: More Than Just the Fee
The total cost isn't just the grading fee itself. Several other factors influence the final price:
1. The Grading Company's Fees:
This is the most obvious cost. The two most popular grading companies for Pokemon cards are PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) and Beckett Grading Services (BGS). Their fees vary depending on the service level (e.g., economy vs. express service) and the number of cards you submit. Expect to pay anywhere from $15 to $50+ per card, depending on the company and service options. Bulk submissions might offer slight discounts. It’s crucial to check the current pricing on their respective websites as fees are subject to change.
2. Shipping Costs:
You'll need to factor in the cost of shipping your cards to the grading company, and then the cost of shipping them back to you once they're graded. This depends on your location, the number of cards, and the shipping method you choose. Use a secure, insured shipping method to protect your valuable cards! Budget at least $10-$30 or more, particularly if using expedited shipping.
3. Insurance Costs (Highly Recommended!):
Consider adding insurance to your shipment, both ways. These cards can be valuable, and insuring them protects your investment in case of loss or damage during transit. Insurance costs vary depending on the declared value of your cards.
4. Potential Additional Fees:
Some grading companies might charge additional fees for things like:
- Additional services: Such as photo-grading or special handling.
- Rush processing: if you need your cards back quickly.
- Card alterations/repairs: If there are issues that could affect the card's grading and you wish to have the card addressed before submission.
Estimating Your Total Cost: A Sample Scenario
Let's say you want to grade five Pokemon cards. Using a conservative estimate:
- Grading Fees: $25 per card x 5 cards = $125
- Shipping (both ways): $20
- Insurance: $15
Total Estimated Cost: $160
This is just a ballpark figure. The actual cost could be higher or lower depending on the factors mentioned above. Always check the current pricing on the grading company's websites for the most accurate cost estimations.
Is Grading a PSA 5 Worth It?
The decision of whether or not to grade your Pokemon cards, especially to a PSA 5, depends on your individual circumstances. A PSA 5 or BGS 5 is a good grade, generally considered better than ungraded. It indicates that the cards are in decent condition and could fetch a higher price than raw (ungraded) cards. However, the cost of grading needs to be weighed against the potential increase in value. Do your research on comparable graded cards to see if the potential return on investment justifies the expense.
Ultimately, the decision to grade your Pokemon cards is a personal one. Carefully weigh the costs against the potential benefits to ensure it's a worthwhile investment for your collection.
