Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about PokeOutpost, card grading, submissions, certificates, buying, selling, orders and verification.
General Questions
What is PokeOutpost?
PokeOutpost is a UK-based trading card business offering professional-style card grading, card verification, certificates, and the buying and selling of Pokémon and other trading cards.
What cards do you grade?
We primarily grade Pokémon trading cards, but may also accept other trading card games and collectible cards. Please check our current grading service for the cards we are accepting.
Are my cards graded by a machine?
No. Cards are assessed using our grading standards and inspection process. Each card is carefully examined for centering, corners, edges and surface condition.
Card Grading
What grading scale does PokeOutpost use?
PokeOutpost uses a numerical grading system designed to reflect the overall condition of a trading card.
What do you look for when grading a card?
Each card is carefully inspected for centering, corners, edges and surface condition. Printing defects, whitening, scratches, dents, creases and other visible imperfections may also affect the grade.
How is the final grade decided?
The final grade is determined by assessing the overall condition of the card against the PokeOutpost grading standards.
Can damaged cards be graded?
Yes. Damaged cards can still be submitted, although creases, dents, scratches, heavy whitening and other significant damage can substantially affect the final grade.
Do you grade Japanese Pokémon cards?
Yes. Japanese Pokémon cards may be accepted for grading. Please check the current grading service for any exclusions.
Do you grade other TCGs?
We may accept selected trading card games and collectible cards in addition to Pokémon. Availability may vary.
Can I request a specific grade?
No. Grades are determined independently according to the condition of the card and the PokeOutpost grading standards.
Can my grade be changed after grading?
Grades are assigned according to the condition of the card at the time of grading. If you believe there has been an error, please contact PokeOutpost so the matter can be reviewed.
Submitting Cards
How do I submit my cards for grading?
To submit cards, please follow our submission instructions and complete the required submission information.
How should I package my cards?
Cards should be packaged securely to reduce the risk of movement, bending, moisture or damage during transit.
How many cards can I submit?
The number of cards you can submit depends on the grading service selected.
How long does grading take?
Turnaround times can vary depending on the grading service and submission volume. Please check the current grading service for the latest information.
Can I track my submission?
Where submission tracking is available, your submission number can be used to check the progress of your submission.
What happens after I submit my cards?
Once your cards are received, they are checked against the submission information before entering the grading process. The cards are then assessed according to our grading standards.
Can I cancel my submission?
Cancellation may depend on the stage of your submission. Please contact PokeOutpost as soon as possible if you need assistance.
Grading Costs & Turnaround
How much does card grading cost?
Current grading prices are displayed on the PokeOutpost pricing page.
Are there different grading services?
PokeOutpost may offer different grading services depending on turnaround time and service requirements.
Can turnaround times change?
Turnaround estimates can vary depending on submission volume and other circumstances. Always check the current service information before submitting.
Certificates & Verification
Does every graded card receive a certificate number?
Graded cards are associated with a PokeOutpost certificate number. This provides a unique reference that can be used to verify the graded card.
What is a PokeOutpost certificate number?
A certificate number is a unique reference assigned to a PokeOutpost graded card.
How do I verify a PokeOutpost graded card?
Enter the certificate number shown on the graded card or certificate into the PokeOutpost verification system.
Can I scan the QR code on my graded card?
Where a QR code is provided, it can be scanned using a compatible smartphone camera or QR code reader.
What happens if my certificate cannot be found?
First, check that the certificate number has been entered correctly. If the certificate still cannot be located, please contact PokeOutpost.
Can I report a suspicious certificate?
Yes. If you believe a certificate or graded card may not be genuine, please contact PokeOutpost with the certificate number and relevant details.
Buying & Selling
Does PokeOutpost buy Pokémon cards?
Yes. PokeOutpost may purchase Pokémon cards and other trading card products depending on demand, condition and current stock requirements.
Do you buy collections?
Collection purchases may be available. The value depends on the cards included, condition, rarity, demand and current market values.
Do you buy bulk cards?
Bulk cards may be considered depending on the type, quantity and condition of the cards.
How do you value cards?
Card values can depend on rarity, condition, set, language, demand, current market prices and whether the card is graded.
Can I sell graded cards to PokeOutpost?
Graded cards may be considered for purchase. Offers depend on the card, grade, condition, authenticity, demand and current market conditions.
Can I buy graded cards from PokeOutpost?
Yes. PokeOutpost offers graded cards and other trading card products when available through the online store and other sales channels.
Orders & Payments
What payment methods do you accept?
Available payment methods are displayed during checkout.
Are my payments secure?
Payments are processed through the payment methods and providers made available during checkout.
How will my order be shipped?
Orders are packaged appropriately for the products being shipped and sent using the delivery option selected or provided at checkout.
Do you ship outside the UK?
International shipping availability may vary by product and service. Please check the delivery options available during checkout.
What happens if my order arrives damaged?
If your order arrives damaged, please contact PokeOutpost as soon as possible with details of the issue and photographs where possible.
Returns & Refunds
What is your returns policy?
Returns and refunds are subject to the applicable PokeOutpost Returns & Refunds policy.
How do I request a refund?
Please review the PokeOutpost Returns & Refunds policy for information about requesting a return or refund.
Accounts & Tracking
Why should I create a PokeOutpost account?
A customer account can make it easier to manage your information, view relevant order details and access available PokeOutpost services.
Can I view my previous orders?
Customers with an account may be able to view previous order information through their account.
Can I track my grading submission online?
Where submission tracking is available, you can use your submission number to check the current status of your submission.
Can I view my submissions?
If you have a PokeOutpost account, your available submission information can be accessed through your submissions area.
What if I lose my submission number?
Please contact PokeOutpost with the details available to you so we can help identify the relevant submission.
Still Have a Question?
If you cannot find the answer you're looking for, please contact PokeOutpost and we'll be happy to help.
