Grading

All Posts
Drops & Listings
Shipping
Inventory & Workflow
Grading
Market & Strategy

The Grading ROI Framework: A Data-Driven System for Deciding What to Grade

Executive Summary Grading can be one of the best multipliers in the hobby — or a slow bleed of fees, shipping, and opportunity cost. The difference is decision quality. Many collectors grade based on vibes (“this looks clean”) or hype (“everyone’s grading this set”). Operators grade based on expected value. This white paper introduces the Grading ROI Framework — a simple, repeatable system for deciding what to grade using a baseline screening rule: TAG Basic at $22. We'll cov

Kathryn Frese

Aug 114 min read

Sealed vs. Singles: A Capital Allocation Framework for Small TCG Operators

WHITE PAPER: Sealed vs. Singles: A Capital Allocation Framework for Small TCG Operators When to buy sealed product vs. go straight to singles/slabs (with real math and risk controls) Disclaimer: This white paper is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. All market values, pull rates, and EV estimates referenced are illustrative examples based on publicly available data and operator experience —

Kathryn Frese

May 226 min read

The True Cost of Grading: TAG Basic vs Standard ROI Framework

If you grade Pokémon cards long enough, you learn a simple truth: grading fees are only the beginning. The real cost of grading includes shipping, supplies, time, cash tied up while cards are away, and the opportunity cost of choosing the wrong service level for the wrong card. This paper provides a decision framework to compare TAG Basic vs TAG Standard using ROI logic instead of gut feel. The goal is not to argue that one tier is "better" — it's to help you choose the right

Kathryn Frese

May 195 min read

Grading Prep 101: How to Prepare Cards for Professional Evaluation

───────────────────────────────────── Browse the Collection See what's currently in The Vault — professionally graded, curation-first. Explore The Vault → bluevioletpoke.com/the-vault Ready to Buy? Shop live listings on COMC or bid through McSports on eBay. Shop on COMC → comc.com/User/Portfolio/BlueVioletPoke Have a Question? Reach out anytime — info@bluevioletpoke.com

Kathryn Frese

Mar 311 min read