SGC Adjusts Grading Service Levels as Demand Pushes Turnaround Times Higher

SGC is making changes to its card grading service levels as rising submission demand continues to stretch turnaround times. The grading company announced that the adjustments take effect September 2, saying demand has been increasing rapidly and estimated turnaround times have expanded beyond what it considers acceptable. SGC directed collectors to its services and pricing page for the current breakdown of available grading options.

SGC acknowledged that the changes could be frustrating for customers, but characterized them as a short-term step while it works to increase capacity. The company said it is aggressively hiring additional employees, substantially increasing its operational square footage and investing in new technology and infrastructure. The goal, according to SGC, is to reduce the amount of time cards spend in the grading process without compromising grading quality or accuracy.

Turnaround time has become an increasingly important issue for collectors deciding whether and where to grade cards. SGC said its own wait times have now reached a point where action was necessary. “SGC’s mission has always been to provide consistent and accurate grading in a timely manner,” the company said, adding that turnaround times have increased “beyond acceptable levels.”

The September 2 changes may not be the last. SGC said collectors should expect further adjustments to its service levels between late 2026 and early 2027. The company plans to issue periodic updates outlining its progress, future plans and information affecting cards that have already been submitted.

The announcement does not provide a timetable for when turnaround times could begin falling significantly, but SGC’s planned hiring, facility expansion and infrastructure investment suggest the company is preparing for grading demand to remain elevated rather than treating the current backlog as a temporary spike. For collectors with cards already at SGC, the company said future updates will also address submissions currently in its care.

SGC has framed the service changes as a temporary response to a capacity problem, with another round of adjustments already expected before early 2027. For now, collectors planning new submissions will need to check SGC’s current service options and turnaround estimates before sending their cards in.