✨ Grading 2025: PSA, BGS, CGC & Co. in comparison – including German providers

🕵️♂️ What is grading? Why is it done? And which providers are truly recommended in 2025?
Grading has long since become more than just a trend—it's become an integral part of collecting culture. Whether it's Pokémon, One Piece, sports cards, or Marvel—anyone who wants to get the most out of their collection or invest in it for the long term can hardly avoid professional grading.

Because a card rated "PSA 10" or "BGS 9.5" not only commands higher prices, but also stands for quality, authenticity, and lasting value. At the same time, there are more and more providers with their own strengths – the range is growing noticeably, especially in Germany.

But which service is right for you?
What costs will you incur? And what do you need to consider when shipping?

➡️ In this guide, we'll show you all the relevant grading services for 2025 —clearly structured, with pricing overviews, processing times, tips for beginners, and a handy glossary. And best of all, you can combine many of the services mentioned directly with your cards from our shop!

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🧠 What does grading actually mean?

Grading refers to the professional evaluation of trading cards by independent testing services. Criteria such as:

• Condition (corners, edges, surface)

• Centering (positioning of the print)

• Print quality & gloss

• possible scratches or printing errors

...analyzed – and the card receives a grade from 1 to 10 that objectively describes its condition. The higher the grade, the more valuable (and desirable) the card is on the market.

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🏆 Overview of top international providers

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🇩🇪 German grading services – local & flexible

🟡 GRADIKO (Grading Cologne)

• Headquarters: Germany

• Price: from 13 € per ticket

• Subgrades: Optional

• Special features: Express service & bulk discounts

• Optics: Clean, modern label with hologram seal

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🔵 CardGrade

• Headquarters: Hamburg

• Price: from 14,90 €

• Subgrades: Yes

• Special features: Including digital archiving and blockchain backup

• Label: Simple & elegant, good UV stability

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⚫ Black Grading

• Headquarters: Ludwigshafen

• Price: from 15,95 €

• Subgrades: Yes, from rating 7

• Special features:

  • 9 grading variants (also for boosters, signatures, stickers, etc.)

  • UV-protected covers, serial number & database entry

  • Use of image recognition software for quality analysis

  • Focus on clarity, accuracy & traceability

• Ideal for: Collectors who desire detailed and modern valuation

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📊 Grading comparison: Overview & recommendation

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📦 How do I send cards for grading?

Recommendation:

• Card in Penny Sleeve + Toploader or Card Saver

• Bubble envelope or cardboard box with filling material

• Enclose order form (can be completed online for German services)

• Shipping with tracking & insurance

• Clarify return shipping options (sometimes free of charge)

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🤓 Tips for beginners

• Send only valuable or potentially highly valued cards (Mint/Near Mint)

• Pay attention to perfect centering and clean surface

• Check beforehand with a magnifying glass or under light

• Grading can multiply the value depending on the condition

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📚 Glossar

• Grading – Rating of your card (scale 1–10)

• Subgrades – individual grades for corners, edges, surface, centering

• Slab – The sealed plastic sleeve for graded cards

• Label – evaluation sheet with grade, set & serial number

• Pop Report – Database query for the availability of a specific note

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❓ FAQ

🕓 How long does grading take?
Depending on the provider, 1–10 weeks – PSA & BGS usually take longer, German services significantly faster.

💸 Is grading worth it?
For rare, well-preserved cards: Yes. PSA 10 or BGS 9.5+, in particular, often significantly increase the market value.

📍 Difference between PPE and BGS?
PSA awards overall grades without subgrades. BGS offers detailed subgrades, but is more stringent in its assessment.

📦 Are boosters or stickers also possible?
Yes! Black Grading even offers special versions for boosters, signatures, and more.

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🛒 Discover now at Habibicards

✔️ Already graded cards in the assortment
✔️ Accessories for secure shipping (toploaders, sleeves, magnetic cases)
✔️ No pre-sale – only products in stock
✔️ Personal support & passion for collecting

👉 Shop now at Habibicards Buy Pokémon at Habibicards – TCG shop for One Piece & more and go hunting for new treasures.

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🔚 Our conclusion:
Grading can be the key to taking your collection to the next level—whether for value retention, resale, or simply for pride. Whether you choose PSA, BGS, or a German service, the main thing is that you do it with heart, mind, and a clear goal.

If you have any questions about grading or need advice on specific cards, please feel free to contact us .
We at Habibicards are happy to assist you. ❤️