In the world of trading card collecting, grading plays a crucial role in determining a card’s value, authenticity, and desirability. While many collectors are familiar with grading itself, fewer fully understand the concept of crossgrading.
Crossgrading has become increasingly popular among Pokémon collectors and investors looking to maximize the value of their cards or move between grading companies like Professional Sports Authenticator and Beckett Grading Services.
In this guide, we’ll break down what crossgrading is, how it works, its risks, and when it makes sense.
What Is Crossgrading?
Crossgrading is the process of submitting a graded card from one grading company to another grading company, with the goal of receiving an equal or higher grade.
Instead of submitting a raw (ungraded) card, you send an already graded card—still inside its slab—to a different grading company.
For example:
- Submitting a PSA 10 card to BGS
- Sending a BGS 9.5 to PSA
- Moving a card from a newer grading company to a more established one
The main objective is usually one of the following:
- increase the card’s market value
- achieve a higher grade
- switch to a more recognized grading company
- pursue premium grades like a Black Label
How Crossgrading Works
The process is relatively straightforward but requires attention to detail.
Step 1: Choose the Target Grading Company
Collectors typically crossgrade toward:
- Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) for liquidity and market demand
- Beckett Grading Services (BGS) for premium grades like Black Label
Step 2: Select Submission Type
Most grading companies offer crossgrading options:
- Cross-over service (card stays in slab)
- Crack and resubmit (card removed from slab)
Each method has different risks and outcomes.
Step 3: Set Minimum Grade Requirements
When submitting, you can often set a minimum acceptable grade.
If the card does not meet that grade:
- it may be returned in its original slab
- or not re-encapsulated
This protects you from losing value.
Crossgrading vs Cracking: What’s the Difference?
This is one of the most important distinctions.
Crossgrading (in slab)
- Card remains sealed in original case
- Lower risk of damage
- Grading company evaluates through the slab
- Less chance of grade increase
Crack and Resubmit
- Card is removed from original slab
- Submitted as raw card
- Higher risk (damage, contamination)
- Higher potential reward (better grade)
Many experienced collectors prefer cracking when chasing:
- PSA 10 upgrades
- BGS Black Label
Why Do Collectors Crossgrade?
There are several strategic reasons behind crossgrading.
1. Increase Market Value
Different grading companies have different market values.
For example:
- PSA cards often sell for higher and more consistent prices
- BGS Black Labels can command massive premiums
Moving a card between companies can unlock additional value.
2. Upgrade the Grade
A card graded:
- PSA 9
might become: - BGS 9.5
or even higher depending on condition
Grading standards vary slightly between companies, creating opportunities.
3. Target Premium Grades
One of the biggest motivations is chasing elite grades like:
- BGS Black Label 10
Many collectors attempt crossgrading specifically for this purpose.
4. Improve Liquidity
Cards graded by Professional Sports Authenticator are often easier to sell due to:
- higher market trust
- larger buyer base
Crossgrading can make a card more liquid.
Risks of Crossgrading
Crossgrading is not risk-free.
1. Downgrade Risk
The biggest risk is receiving a lower grade.
Example:
- PSA 10 → BGS 9.5
- BGS 9.5 → PSA 9
This can significantly reduce value.
2. Subjectivity in Grading
Even top grading companies like Professional Sports Authenticator and Beckett Grading Services have slight differences in grading standards.
Small imperfections may be interpreted differently.
3. Damage During Cracking
If you crack the slab:
- risk of scratching the card
- edge or corner damage
- surface contamination
Even a tiny mistake can ruin the card’s grade.
4. Costs and Fees
Crossgrading involves:
- grading fees
- shipping costs
- insurance
If the grade doesn’t improve, the process may not be profitable.
When Is Crossgrading Worth It?
Crossgrading makes sense in specific situations.
You Should Consider Crossgrading If:
- The card looks undergraded
- You are chasing a higher-tier grade
- The price difference between grades is significant
- You want to move to a more liquid grading company
You Should Avoid Crossgrading If:
- The card is borderline for its current grade
- The potential value increase is small
- You are unsure about grading standards
- The card already has strong market demand
PSA vs BGS Crossgrading Strategy
Most crossgrading revolves around these two companies:
- Professional Sports Authenticator
- Beckett Grading Services
Common strategies:
- PSA 10 → BGS (for Black Label attempt)
- BGS 9.5 → PSA (for PSA 10 upgrade)
- BGS 10 → PSA (for liquidity)
Each strategy depends on the card’s condition and market demand.
Final Thoughts
Crossgrading is one of the most advanced strategies in the trading card hobby. When done correctly, it can:
- significantly increase a card’s value
- unlock premium grades
- improve market liquidity
However, it also carries real risks.
Understanding grading standards, market trends, and card condition is essential before attempting crossgrading.
For serious collectors and investors, crossgrading can be a powerful tool—but only when approached with knowledge and strategy.