narkha.dev · useful tools

How much does it cost to grade a Pokémon card?

Full cost breakdown: service fee + shipping + insurance, and whether grading pays off for your card.

Insurance cost
Break-even graded value
Graded value needed to profit 100%

Break-even = total cost + raw value you give up by tying the card in a slab. Fees shown are typical 2026 estimates — always check the current price list before submitting.

Quick answers

When is grading worth it?

Rule of thumb: the graded price should be at least 2-3x the raw price to absorb fees, shipping and the risk of a low grade. Below ~$50 raw value, standard grading rarely pays off.

What grade will my card get?

Nobody knows before grading. Check corners, edges, surface and centering under good light; visible wear usually caps the grade. A Gem 10 premium over raw value is never guaranteed.

How long does it take?

From ~1-2 weeks at premium tiers to several months at economy tiers, depending on demand. Turnaround times change frequently.