Our Guide to Grading Your YuGiOh Cards

If you're looking to increase the value and protect the long-term condition of your YuGiOh cards, grading is an essential step. Getting your cards graded can make a huge difference in their value and desirability. At Cherry, we know the importance of grading and can guide you through the process. Read on to discover everything you need to know about YuGiOh card grading!

What is Card Grading?

Card grading is a professional evaluation process where your cards are inspected, authenticated, and given a numerical grade based on their condition. This process ensures that collectors and buyers know exactly what they’re getting when purchasing a graded card. A high-grade card can significantly increase in value, making grading a worthwhile investment. To learn more about how card grading works, check out our grading information page.

How You Can Prepare Your YuGiOh Cards for Grading

Before submitting your YuGiOh cards for grading, follow these steps to ensure they are in the best possible condition:

• Use Soft Sleeves & Toploaders – Protect your cards from scratches and dust by placing them in soft sleeves and then into a toploader.
• Check for Surface Issues – Use good lighting to examine your card for scratches, print lines, or any dirt that can be gently removed with a microfiber cloth.
• Assess the Centering – Well-centered cards tend to grade higher, so check the alignment of borders.
• Avoid Bending or Handling Too Much – Always hold your cards by the edges to prevent fingerprints and bending.
• Consider Pre-Grading Services – Some collectors use pre-grading services to get an estimate before officially submitting their cards.

Choosing the Best Grading Company

Two of the most well-known grading companies for YuGiOh cards are PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) and BGS (Beckett Grading Services). Both offer high-quality grading services but have some differences in their grading scales and costs. PSA is known for its 10-point grading system and red-label slabs, while BGS provides subgrades for centering, edges, corners, and surface. Learn more about the differences in our detailed PSA vs. BGS grading comparison.

Submitting Your Cards for Grading

Once your cards are prepped and you’ve chosen your grading company, it’s time to submit them. Follow these steps:

1. Choose Your Service – Decide whether you want PSA or BGS grading. You can submit through Cherry Collectables’ PSA grading service or Beckett grading service.
2. Fill Out Submission Forms – Ensure all details about your cards are accurately listed.
3. Securely Package Your Cards – Use bubble wrap and a sturdy box to prevent damage during shipping.
4. Send & Track Your Submission – Use a tracked shipping method to keep tabs on your package.

Turnaround Times & Costs of YuGiOh Card Grading

The time it takes to get your YuGiOh cards graded depends on the service level you choose:

• Standard PSA/BGS grading – Can take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks.
• Express services – Faster turnaround (around 1-3 weeks) but comes at a higher price.
• Costs – Basic grading services start at around $40-$50 per card, with premium services costing more depending on declared value.

The Results Are In

Once your graded YuGiOh cards are returned, they will be encased in a protective slab with a label displaying their official grade. If your card received a lower grade than expected, you have the option to:

• Keep the card and accept the grade.
• Crack it out of the slab and resubmit it for re-evaluation (risky but sometimes worth it).
• Sell or trade it based on its graded value.

Mistakes To Avoid When Grading Your YuGiOh Cards

To avoid costly errors, keep these key points in mind:

• Not cleaning your cards properly – Dust and fingerprints can lower your grade.
• Submitting damaged or off-center cards – If a card has visible flaws, it may not be worth grading.
• Ignoring grading company differences – PSA and BGS have different standards, so pick the one that suits your needs best.
• Not packaging properly for shipping – Poor packaging can lead to damaged cards in transit.

Grade Your YuGiOh Cards Today with Cherry Collectables

If you're ready to take your YuGiOh collection to the next level, get your cards graded today! At Cherry Collectables, we offer PSA and BGS grading services to ensure your prized cards are protected and authenticated. Start your submission now and get the most out of your YuGiOh collection!