Black Label Grading partnered with CGC in 2022 to give customers access to a modern, efficient grading option alongside PSA and Beckett.
CGC is a US-based grading company that focuses on consistent, data-driven card evaluation and streamlined processing. Their grading workflow combines automated attribution and centring analysis with forensic inspection tools such as UV and infrared scanning to detect alterations, ink issues, and surface defects.
After grading, each card is sealed in a tamper-resistant holder and assigned a unique certification number that can be verified online via CGC’s database. This provides a permanent record of the card’s identity, grade, and authenticity.
We chose to work with CGC because they offer a strong balance of accuracy, turnaround speed, and cost, making professional grading more accessible for collectors who want reliable results without the premium pricing of higher-end tiers.
Current turnaround time: 45 business days
This refers to CGC’s internal grading time only and does not include shipping, customs, or Black Label Grading processing. Full timing details can be found in our FAQs.
• Regular progress updates
• Liability cap: £1,000 per card or tier maximum (whichever is lower)
• Suitable for cards with a maximum graded value of $500
We submit cards regularly to Beckett, PSA & CGC. We endeavour to get cards shipped within 1-2 weeks of receiving them, offering a quick processing time.
CGC is positioned as a more cost-effective grading option while still providing full authentication, grading, and encapsulation. This makes it a practical choice for collectors who want their cards professionally graded without moving into premium pricing tiers.
Each card is authenticated, graded, and sealed in a tamper-resistant holder with a unique CGC certification number that can be verified online. This gives collectors a permanent, trackable record of the card’s identity and grade, while protecting it from handling and environmental damage.
CGC’s pricing structure allows a wider range of cards to be graded economically, particularly for modern cards, bulk submissions, and mid-value collectibles.
Using a middleman means your cards move through several stages on their way to being graded and returned. We built our platform around that reality.
Black Label Grading’s order system provides live, step-by-step updates as your submission moves between BLG and the grading companies. Where supported by the grader, these updates are pulled directly from their systems, giving you a clearer and more accurate view of where your cards are at any point in time.
For a full walkthrough of how a submission moves through BLG, you can also read our blog post “The BLG Journey Explained.”
