Sports Card Grading Turnaround Times 2026: What You Need to Know

As a sports card collector and investor, you're likely no stranger to the thrill of submitting your precious cards for grading and authentication. But have you heard the latest news from Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), the leading brand in baseball and sports card grading? As of February 10, 2026, PSA will be increasing prices and turnaround times for some service levels due to high demand in grading submissions.

In this article, we'll break down what's changing, how it affects you as a collector, and provide actionable advice on maximizing your grades. We'll also touch on current market trends and share real data from the research. So, let's dive in!

What's Changing with PSA Grading Turnaround Times

As of February 10, 2026, PSA will be increasing prices for some service levels due to high demand in grading submissions. This means that collectors who submit their cards for grading will need to pay more for the same level of service they're used to.

But what about turnaround times? According to PSA, three of its most popular grading services – Economy, Regular, and Express – will see an increase of five business days each. Here's a breakdown of the new turnaround times:

* Economy: 45-90 business days (previously 40-85 business days)

* Regular: 20-30 business days (previously 15-25 business days)

* Express: 5-7 business days (no change)

* Super Express: 1-2 business days (no change)

How Will This Affect You as a Collector?

The increased prices and turnaround times may seem daunting, but they're not all bad news. As a collector, you can still maximize your grades by choosing the right service level for your cards.

For example, if you have a rare or high-value card, it's worth investing in the Express or Super Express service to get it graded quickly. On the other hand, if you have a lower-value card or are on a budget, the Economy service may be sufficient.

Let's take a look at some real-world examples:

* A 1989 Upper Deck Rookie Card of Ken Griffey Jr. (PSA 10) can sell for around $1,000. If you submit it for grading through the Express service, you can expect to pay around $50-$75 and receive your card back within 5-7 business days.

* A 1993 Topps Stadium Club Complete Set (PSA 9) can sell for around $500. If you submit it for grading through the Regular service, you can expect to pay around $20-$30 and wait around 20-30 business days.

Market Trends and Real Data

The sports card market has seen significant growth in recent years, with some high-value cards selling for millions of dollars at auction. According to data from Card Values, the average price of a graded PSA 10 card increased by over 20% in 2025 alone.

As a collector, it's essential to stay on top of market trends and adjust your strategy accordingly. With the increasing demand for sports cards, it's more crucial than ever to submit your cards for grading to get them authenticated and increase their value.

Tips for Maximizing Your Grades

So, how can you maximize your grades and make the most of the new turnaround times? Here are some actionable tips:

* Choose the right service level: As we discussed earlier, choose the Express or Super Express service for high-value or rare cards.

* Submit a small batch: Submitting a few cards at once can help speed up the grading process.

* Use the PSA online submission system: The online system allows you to track your submissions and get updates on your card's status in real-time.

* Get familiar with the grading scale: Understanding the grading scale will help you make informed decisions about which service level is best for your cards.

Nashville-Locals: Get Your Cards Graded in Middle Tennessee!

As a local sports card collector, you may be wondering where to get your cards graded. Well, you're in luck! There are several reputable sports card graders and authenticators in the Nashville area, including PSA's own grading center.

If you're located in Nashville or surrounding areas like Brentwood, Franklin, Murfreesboro, Hendersonville, or beyond, we encourage you to reach out to us at Cards Worth Trading. Our team of experts is here to help you get your cards graded and authenticated quickly and efficiently.

Conclusion

The new turnaround times for sports card grading with PSA may seem daunting, but with the right strategy and knowledge, you can still maximize your grades and increase the value of your collection. As a collector, it's essential to stay informed about market trends and adjust your strategy accordingly.

At Cards Worth Trading, we're committed to helping local collectors like you get the most out of their sports cards. Whether you have rare or high-value cards or are just starting out, we're here to guide you through the process.

So, what are you waiting for? Have cards to sell? Cards Worth Trading buys sports cards in Nashville and Middle Tennessee. Contact us for a free quote today!