It is important to choose the right grading tier when sending your cards for professional grading, especially if you’re new to collecting or helping your child protect their favourite cards. With different service levels, card value limits, and turnaround times available, it can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve broken it all down simply, using the exact grading tiers available through Black Label Grading with PSA, Beckett, and CGC.
PSA Grading Tiers
PSA is one of the most recognised and trusted card grading companies in the world, known for strong resale value and consistent grading standards. When trying to choose the right grading tier, PSA offers a flexible range of options to suit your card’s value and purpose.
TCG Bulk
This option is great for trading card game collectors, especially those just getting started. If you’re grading Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, or Magic: The Gathering cards worth up to $200 (graded value), this tier offers a simple and budget-friendly way to protect your collection. It’s best suited for collectors with lower value cards due to the graded card limit. Please note that this tier is not available for sports cards.
Value Bulk
Ideal for cards worth up to $500, this service is open to both trading cards and sports cards. It offers an accessible balance between affordability and card value, making it a good choice for collectors who are beginning to build a more serious collection or plan to resell in future. With value does come a longer turnaround time for both Value Bulk & TCG Bulk.
Value Plus
This is a faster version of the Value Bulk service. If you’re planning to sell a card, give it as a gift, or showcase it at an event, this tier offers quicker turnaround while still being suitable for cards worth up to $500. It’s helpful for those who don’t want to wait too long but aren’t ready to invest in premium-speed services.
Regular
This tier is designed for higher-value cards up to $1,500. If your card has significant resale potential or personal value and you’d like it graded and returned quickly, the Regular tier offers both speed and peace of mind.
Booster Pack
A unique service designed specifically for sealed booster packs. Whether it’s a classic Pokémon pack or a modern set you want to preserve, this tier ensures it’s securely graded and encased. It’s especially useful for long-term collectors and investors.
Reholder
This service is for cards that have already been graded by PSA but need a new case. If the original case is scratched, cracked, or outdated, the Reholder option provides a clean and updated look without regrading the card itself.
Value Dual Auto
Perfect for cards that feature a signature, the Value Dual Auto Grading tier grades both the card and the autograph. It’s an ideal option for collectors of signed sports or TCG cards who want both elements professionally authenticated and preserved.
As this service involves evaluating both the card and its autograph, it’s the only Black Label Grading service where pricing is based on the card’s market value. This is due to the added authentication required for signatures. For more information on how value is determined and what tier your card may fall into, please visit our FAQ section, where we outline the value thresholds and provide examples to help you choose the correct grading level.
Beckett Grading Tiers
Beckett is well known for offering sub-grades, meaning each card is graded individually for its centering, corners, edges, and surface. This extra layer of detail helps collectors better understand a card’s condition and is a key reason many experienced collectors choose Beckett.
One of the most sought-after outcomes is the Beckett Black Label, awarded only to cards that achieve a perfect 10 on all four sub-grades, a true mark of flawless quality. Due to its rarity, the Black Label is highly prized by collectors and can significantly increase a card’s market value.
When choosing the right Beckett grading tier, it’s important to consider not just the level of detail, but also the turnaround time that suits your needs.
Base Beckett
This is Beckett’s most affordable grading tier and includes full sub-grades. It’s ideal for collectors looking to get started with Beckett or who want transparency without a premium cost. If you have a few cards to test out the grading process or simply want your cards assessed in more detail, this is a smart choice.
Standard Beckett
With a faster turnaround than Base, the Standard tier is a good option for collectors grading mid-value cards or preparing for a resale. You get the benefit of sub-grades along with a quicker return, making it a well-rounded choice for more active collectors.
Express Beckett
If speed is a priority, the Express tier is made for quick results. This service is ideal for grading valuable cards that need to be returned in time for a show, sale, or special occasion. It gives you detailed sub-grades and faster processing.
Priority Beckett
This is the top tier for those needing the fastest turnaround. Whether it’s a high-value card going to auction or a card you want graded as a priority, this service delivers speed without compromising detail or security.
CGC Grading Tier (via Black Label Grading)
CGC offers one straightforward option through Black Label Grading, which makes it easier to choose the right grading tier if you’re looking for simplicity and affordability. CGC is especially popular among collectors of trading card games like Pokémon and Magic: The Gathering, and is known for consistent grading and secure encapsulation.
CGC Bulk
This tier is excellent for budget-conscious collectors and families. It’s perfect for cards valued under $250 and offers a reliable way to get your collection graded without overspending. Whether you’re sending in a child’s first few Pokémon cards or adding to your own binder collection, this option offers security, affordability, and simplicity.
How to Choose the Right Grading Tier for Grading Cards
When you need to choose the right grading tier, there are three main things to think about: the type of card, its value, and how soon you need it back.
1. Type of Card
Start by identifying whether your card is a TCG card (like Pokémon), a sports card, a sealed booster pack, or an autographed card. PSA has dedicated services for each, including Booster Pack, Reholder, and Value Dual Auto, while CGC and Beckett are also well-suited for different card types. Beckett is particularly popular among collectors who value sub-grades for corners, edges, surface, and centring, while CGC is a favourite for TCG collectors who prefer a simple and affordable grading option.
2. Card Value
When submitting to PSA, the declared value of your card is a key factor in determining the correct grading tier. PSA requires you to choose a service level based on the card’s estimated market value, and selecting the wrong tier can lead to delays or upcharges.
In contrast, Beckett and CGC do not use card value to determine service tiers, focusing instead on turnaround time and service type (e.g., with or without sub-grades or autograph grading). It’s important to accurately estimate your card’s value when submitting to PSA, use recent sold listings or auction results to guide you.
3. Turnaround Time
If you’re happy to wait a little longer and want to save money, bulk tiers like CGC Bulk or PSA Value Bulk are the most affordable. However, if you need your card graded quickly for a show, sale, or personal milestone, selecting a faster service such as PSA Value Plus or Beckett Priority is worth the extra investment. Each service has its own estimated turnaround time, which can be viewed on the Black Label Grading pricing page.
Understanding these points will help you choose the right grading tier and make sure your cards are graded safely, efficiently, and at the right pace for your collecting goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does graded value mean?
It’s the estimated market value of your card after it has been graded.
What happens if my card is worth more than the tier allows?
It may be moved to a higher service tier or incur additional charges. Always estimate your card’s value accurately.
Do turnaround times include shipping?
No. Turnaround times refer to the grading process only and do not include shipping or handling time.
Can I mix different types of cards in one submission?
To prevent delays, it’s best to separate submissions by grading company and service tier.
Ready to Get Your Cards Graded?
Choose the right grading tier by thinking about your card’s type, value, and how soon you want it back. Whether you’re helping your child grade their favourite Pokémon card or preparing to protect a rare investment, choosing the correct service tier is the key to success.
Don’t let your cards sit unprotected. Contact us or Submit your cards through Black Label Grading today and let our expert team take care of the process for you, from packaging to processing. Get the protection, presentation, and peace of mind your collection deserves.
