Grading Service Level Confusion - Value?

[scomeau]

Why is speed of turn-around tied to a maximum card value???

Actually, I'm not confused. But am I the only one who thinks that Service Level should imply turn-around time and not be linked to an estimated value? After all, I'm not the grader, they are!

I mean, I get it. The 'top 2' graders want a piece of the pie, but it is a pretty circular concept! "I want to learn the condition/authenticity in order to know an appropriate value, but I have to make a SWAG grade/value first." I think the 2 must be independent.

I have no problem paying a fair price for the grading service, but that cost should be identical regardless of the card's value. If that is not so, then I can only think that less care is taken with my less noteworthy items, and that's not what I want.

I also have no problem paying a premium for quick turn-around. But tying one to the other is simply a way for the grader sharing in the value of my collection. That may be good for them, but not for me.

At least one grader, BVG, recognizes that Service Level and speed are independent.

As long as the grading company (Beckett or other) performs a professional level grading service with reasonable dependability, why in the world would I go elsewhere? Because I can sell a card for more if it comes from the big guy? It seems to me that if there is a fairly consistent perception that one company grades 'easier', then the market will take the grade number into account and factor it appropriately for sales.

Oh, and the 'top 2' have never answered my submitted questions asking for advice as to how to 'estimate'. If I understate my estimate, I fear that my 3.5 might become a 3 if it was a close call. If I overstate, then I waste money (like an altered card that I can't see). If I guess my 1955 Clemente is a 6 as opposed to a 5, then I pay a huge premium. Sounds a little like buying a good grade...

What do you think?