We buy, sell, and trade graded slabs every day, so we get this question constantly: "Should I grade this?" The honest answer is: usually not — and knowing when the answer is yes is where the money is.
The quick math
Grading a card costs real money per card once you count service fees and shipping. A grade only adds value when the graded price beats the raw price by more than that cost — and that gap usually only exists for cards that come back PSA 9 or 10, or vintage cards where any professional grade adds trust.
What to check before you send
Four things kill grades: centering, corners, edges, and surface. Look at the card under strong light at an angle — surface scratches you can't see head-on are the most common heartbreaker. Check centering front and back. If any corner shows white under a loupe, temper your expectations.
When grading clearly makes sense
Rookie cards of stars, low-numbered parallels, vintage in strong condition, and high-value Pokémon hits are the classic sends. Bulk modern base? Almost never worth it, no matter how clean.
Not sure about a specific card? Bring it by the shop — we'll look at it under the light with you and give you a straight answer, including "don't grade this one."