Sources checked 19 October 2026 · Specifications, fees and service availability can change.
Quick answer
Compare the card’s likely graded value with its raw value and all submission costs, then check PSA’s current service levels. If you submit, use PSA’s online process and packing guide.
Decide whether to grade
Grading can help authenticate and document condition, but it does not guarantee a higher resale price or a particular grade. For a sale decision, compare recent sold prices of the exact card in realistic grades with raw-card sold prices. Subtract the grading fee, shipping, insurance and selling costs from the possible difference.
Inspect centering, corners, edges and surface under good light before paying a fee. PSA publishes its grading standards; even a clean-looking card can miss the grade you expect. A personal favorite may still be worth encapsulating for preservation or display even when the resale calculation does not work.
PSA grading cost: dated US service snapshot
Checked 19 October 2026: PSA lists Value Bulk and Value as unavailable. The following examples are direct US trading-card service fees in USD per card; availability and terms may change. Confirm the live service page before submitting.
| Service | Fee per card | Max insured value | Estimated business days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | $59.99 | $1,000 | 90–100 |
| Priority | $79.99 | $1,500 | 70–80 |
| Express | $199 | $2,500 | 20–30 |
How long does PSA grading take?
The table shows estimates, not delivery deadlines. PSA says timing can change with demand; allow for shipping and order processing as well as grading. Its live page uses differing descriptions of the start point, so check the submission terms for your order.
Budget for the whole submission
Multiply the per-card fee by the number of cards, then add outbound and return shipping, insurance and any applicable tax or intermediary charges. A group submitter’s quote is a separate offer; check what it includes.
For example, five cards at a $59.99 service fee cost $299.95 before those additional charges. Compare several realistic grades with raw sold prices; a PSA 10 result is not assured.
Prepare and submit
Create the order online, then follow PSA’s live packing instructions. Use clear soft sleeves and semi-rigid holders; arrange the cards to match the form. Avoid top loaders, tape, pull tabs and sticky notes. Protect the stack inside a shipping box and include the required paperwork.
Use the destination and label instructions for your order. Do not trim, recolor or otherwise alter a card.
After the grade arrives
Check the label and certification details against the card. Store the slab in a box or case that fits it, away from sunlight and damp conditions. If the goal is selling, compare recent sold listings for the exact card and grade rather than assuming every slab earns a premium.
Common questions
Does grading guarantee my card will be worth more?
No. A lower-than-expected grade and submission costs can outweigh a resale premium. Personal display or preservation can be a separate reason to submit.
Is the grading fee the total price?
No. Budget separately for transport, insurance, tax where applicable and any third-party submission fees.
Can I still choose a Value service?
At our 19 October 2026 check, PSA listed Value Bulk and Value as unavailable. Confirm the live page when preparing your order.
Check the official source ↗Does PSA grade the autograph as well as the card?
Do not assume a card-condition grade also grades its signature. PSA offers Card & Auto Grading separately; choose the service that matches what you want evaluated.
Check the official source ↗Sources and product specifications
Check the maker or grader's live page before buying a holder or submitting a card. Specifications and service terms can change.