Getting your Pokémon cards graded in the UK has never been easier than it is in 2025. Whether you’ve pulled a rare Charizard or found a childhood stash in the attic, the right grading company can protect your card and significantly boost its value.
For UK collectors, the big choice is between speed and aesthetics (UK companies) or maximum resale value (US giants via a middleman). Here is everything you need to know.
The Big Decision: UK vs. US Grading
- Choose a US Company (PSA, Beckett, CGC) if: You want the highest possible resale value. A “PSA 10” is the global gold standard for investors and collectors.
- Choose a UK Company (Ace, MGC, SSINT) if: You want your cards back quickly (sometimes in just days), you want to save on shipping/customs, or you want a stunning display piece for your personal collection.
Top 3 UK-Based Grading Companies
1. Ace Grading
Ace remains the most popular native UK service. They are famous for their “Ace Labels”—custom-designed tags that extend the artwork of the card into the label itself.
- Best Feature: Aesthetic appeal. Their labels are hands-down the best for display.
- Turnaround: From 2 business days (Luxury) to 80 days (Bulk).
- Cost: Approximately £12 – £50 per card, depending on speed.
2. Majesty Grading Company (MGC)
MGC is a powerhouse in the UK scene and was the first native company to be officially approved by eBay for TCG grading.
- Best Feature: Market trust. Being eBay-approved means your listings are recognized more easily by buyers.
- Turnaround: Very reliable, with standard services around 10–20 days.
- Cost: Competitive, starting around £10 – £15 per card.
3. SSINT Grading
A rising star in 2025, SSINT uses AI-assisted evaluation and unique laser-engraved aluminum labels.
- Best Feature: Technical precision. Their digital AI defect reports tell you exactly why your card got its grade.
- Cost: Starts at £9.99 per card for basic service.
How to Submit to PSA & Beckett (US) from the UK
If your card is worth over £100, sending it to the US is usually the best investment. To avoid the headache of international customs and complex forms, most UK collectors use a Middleman Service.
Top UK Middleman Services
- The Sub Center: One of the most trusted names for PSA submissions. They offer tiered pricing and handle the entire process from start to finish.
- PSA Bulk Rate: Approx. £18 per card (95-day turnaround).
- Black Label Grading: An official dealer for PSA, Beckett (BGS), and CGC. They are known for excellent communication and are often the only middleman present at major events like MCM Comic Con.
- Beckett Base Rate: Approx. £22 per card (45+ day turnaround).
Price & Turnaround Comparison (2025)
| Company | Based In | Est. Cost (Per Card) | Turnaround Time | Best For |
| Ace Grading | UK | £12 – £50 | 2 – 30 Days | Display / Personal Collection |
| MGC | UK | £10 – £20 | 10 – 20 Days | UK Resale / eBay |
| PSA (via Middleman) | USA | £18 – £30 | 60 – 95 Days | Max Global Resale Value |
| Beckett (via Middleman) | USA | £22 – £40 | 45+ Days | High-End / Pristine 10s |
Protect before you grade: 👉 [Card Saver 1 – Semi-Rigid Holders (50 Pack)]
The Gold Standard Sleeves: 👉 [Dragon Shield Penny Sleeves (Clear)]
Safe Storage: 👉 [Vault X Premium Exo-Tec Card Binder]