Centering is one of the first things to check when evaluating a Pokémon card for grading. A quick, consistent screening process can help you avoid submitting cards that do not fit your target grade.
What centering means
Centering compares the width of the borders around the artwork and card frame. You should inspect both the front and the back because they can differ.
Use a repeatable visual check
- Place the card flat under even lighting.
- Compare the left and right borders on the front.
- Compare the top and bottom borders.
- Repeat the check on the back.
- Look for obvious shifts before spending time on the rest of the card.
Do not evaluate centering alone
A well-centered card can still receive a lower grade because of corners, edges, surface defects, dents, scratches, or print issues. Centering is a screening step, not a guarantee.
The Centering Template Pro gives you a printable overlay for faster at-home checks, while the PSA 10 Evaluation Checklist + Card Conditioning Guide covers the rest of the pre-submission inspection.
When centering becomes a business decision
If you buy cards specifically to grade and resell, record your centering assessment before purchase or submission. Over time, that creates a useful record of which cards and sets produce the best grading results.
Bottom line
Check centering early, inspect the whole card, and make the grading decision from the complete picture rather than one measurement.