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What is card pre-grading and when is it worth it?

grading guide next-grading pre-grading

Grading costs money and takes months. Pre-grading is a measured assessment of a card before you pay for grading, so you only send the cards that are worth it.

What a pre-grader checks

  • Centering: how even the borders are, front and back.
  • Corners: whitening, rounding or dents.
  • Edges: chips and wear.
  • Surface: scratches, print lines, dents and marks, checked under light.

The result is an expert estimate and advice on whether to grade the card and which service to choose. It is not a guarantee of the final grade, which only Next Grading issues.

When it is worth it

  • You have many cards and want to grade only the best ones.
  • A card is valuable and a high grade changes its price a lot.
  • You are unsure whether a mark is damage or a print defect.

Prices at Universe TCG

  • 7 € per card.
  • In store in Barcelona, on a date we set: no call-out fee. The pre-grader groups appointments on scheduled days.
  • In store in Barcelona, on your date: +20 € for a dedicated appointment.
  • Remote: +0 € on the next scheduled day, or +15 € for priority handling. You receive a recorded video.
  • Anywhere else (your home, an event): VIP service, quoted on request.

Pre-grading is a made-to-order service for an agreed date and the call-out fee is paid to a third party, so these fees are not refundable once the appointment is confirmed. Pre-grading and grading are independent: you can book either one on its own.

Before your appointment, read how to prepare your cards for grading.

More grading guides

All the details, prices and bookings: Card grading and pre-grading at Universe TCG.

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Frequently Asked Questions

At Universe TCG, we don't just sell cards, we build an elite competitive community. Operating entirely online, we are the ultimate battleground for TCG players across Europe.

We specialize in 100% authentic, factory-sealed products and mint-condition single cards for Pokémon, One Piece, Magic: The Gathering, Lorcana, and Flesh & Blood. Whether you are a competitive player aiming to dominate the meta, or a high-end collector seeking graded grails, we provide top-tier inventory.

We guarantee ultra-fast, securely packaged domestic and international shipping, ensuring every Booster Box and Single card reaches you in flawless condition. Step into the Universe and elevate your game.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you ship internationally?

Yes! We ship to all EU countries and most international destinations. Orders are dispatched within 24–48 hours from our warehouse in Spain with full tracking.

Are your products 100% authentic?

Absolutely. Every product we sell is sourced exclusively from official distributors. We are an authorised retailer for all major TCG brands.

Can I return a product if I change my mind?

Yes. We offer free returns within 14 days of delivery for any reason, as long as sealed products remain unopened.

Do you buy or trade TCG cards?

Yes! Universe TCG actively buys singles, sealed product, and full collections. Visit our Sell Your Cards page for an instant estimate.