So, what are these hidden costs, and how do they compare to a straightforward service like MPE Grading? Let’s break it down.
1. The Sneaky Upcharges
Many major grading companies use a tiered pricing system based on your card’s declared value. That means you don’t just pay for grading—you also pay extra based on how much your card is worth.
Here’s how it works:
| Card Value | PSA Standard Grading Fee |
|---|---|
| Under $500 | $40 |
| $100 – $999 | $60 |
| $1,000 – $1,500 | $75 |
| $1,500 – $2,500 | $150 |
| $2,500 – $4,999 | $300 |
| Over $5,000 | $600+ 😂 |
😠The Catch: If you submit a card under the cheapest grading tier but PSA decides it’s worth more, they’ll automatically bump it up to a higher-priced service—and charge you more without asking.
✅ At MPE Grading, we NEVER charge upcharges based on value.
2. The Mandatory Membership Fees
Many companies force collectors to buy a membership just to access “discounted” grading rates.
| Company | Membership Required? | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| PSA | Yes, for lowest rates | $99+ per year |
| BGS | No | $0 |
| SGC | No | $0 |
| MPE Grading | No | $0 |
😠The Catch: If you don’t pay for a PSA membership, their cheapest grading tier isn’t available to you, forcing you into higher fees.
✅ At MPE Grading, we don’t believe in membership fees. Every collector deserves fair pricing—no extra charges just to save money.
3. The Long Wait (and Rush Fees to Avoid It)
| Turnaround Time | PSA Cost Per Card | MPE Grading Cost Per Card |
|---|---|---|
| Economy (3-6 months) | $25+ | $5 (15 Days) |
| Regular (1-2 months) | $75+ | $5 |
| Express (1-2 weeks) | $150+ | $5 |
| Super Express (5 days) | $300+ | $5 |
| Walkthrough (5 days) | $600+ | $5 |
😢The Catch: Many collectors have waited 12+ months for their cards back—unless they pay extra for a “faster” option.
✅MPE Grading keeps it simple: Every card is returned in 15 business days or less—no upcharges, no waiting games.
4. The Bottom Line: A Smarter Way to Grade
✅ $5 per card – No upcharges, no hidden fees.
✅15 business days or less turnaround – No need to pay extra for faster service.
✅No memberships required – Fair pricing for every collector.
If you’re tired of overpaying for grading, it’s time to try something different.
▶Start your submission today: MPE Grading Submission Form