Honest EV math
Pack EV is calculated from real pull rate distributions and current market prices. We show you the full picture — including when buying singles is clearly better.
Is that pack worth
opening?
Calculate the expected value of any Pokémon TCG set based on pull rates and current card prices. Plus, see the true all-in cost of importing from Japan.
Pack EV calculator
Set presets
Japanese set: price shown as a USD equivalent.
Pack setup
Extra value from cards outside the rare slot. Leave at 0 if unsure.
Rare slot outcomes (must total 100%)
Each pack has one rare slot. List what it can pull, how often, and what each outcome is worth on average.
Results
EV contribution by slot
The table below has the full data.
Japan import cost
Card details
Quick card presets (yen)
Shipping and fees
US market comparison
Results
Cost breakdown
Per-card cost vs. quantity
The table below has the full data.
Tip: Buying multiple cards from the same seller spreads shipping cost. Adjust quantity above to see per-card savings.
About PullRateCalc
PullRateCalc is a free toolkit for Pokémon card collectors who want to make smarter buying decisions — whether that's buying packs or importing from Japan.
True import cost
The JP Import tool factors in FX rates, shipping, transaction fees, and import duty so you see your actual landed cost — not just the listed price.
Fully customizable
Every pull rate and card value is editable. Use preloaded sets as a starting point and adjust for current market prices or different set configurations.
PullRateCalc is free to use. Pull rate data is approximate — actual rates vary by print run. Card values reflect general market averages and change frequently. Always verify prices on TCGPlayer, eBay, or your preferred marketplace.
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about pack EV, Japan imports, and how to use these tools.
Last reviewed: 5 October 2026. Prices, rates and customs rules change; verify before buying.
What is pack EV and why does it matter?
Expected value (EV) is the statistical average value of a pack based on pull rates and current card prices. If EV > pack cost, you theoretically break even or profit on average. However, variance is extremely high — most packs will be below EV, with rare pulls making up the difference across a large sample.
Should I buy packs or buy singles?
If you want a specific card, buying the single is almost always better than hunting in packs. Pack EV calculators are most useful for sealed product investors, set collectors completing a master set, or understanding the economics of cracking boxes. For targeted acquisitions, go straight to TCGPlayer or eBay.
How accurate are the pull rates?
Pull rates are based on community-reported data and official disclosures where available. They vary by print run, region, and language. Japanese packs often have different (sometimes better) pull rates than English. Always treat these as estimates — the calculator lets you edit them to match the latest data you find.
Is buying Pokémon cards from Japan worth it?
Often yes — Japanese cards can be 30–60% cheaper than English equivalents for the same art, and some cards are Japan-exclusive. The savings depend heavily on FX rates and shipping cost spread across your order. The JP Import calculator shows your exact breakeven point.
What's the best way to buy Pokémon cards from Japan?
Popular options include Mercari Japan (with a proxy service like Buyee or Zenmarket), Yahoo Auctions Japan, and direct shops like Surugaya or Cardbox. EMS shipping (~$12) is the sweet spot for speed vs. cost for small orders.
Do I have to pay import duties on Pokémon cards?
In the US, import duties on trading cards are generally 0% under HTS code 9504.40. However, customs handling fees may apply on higher-value packages. The duty field in the calculator defaults to 0% but lets you adjust for other countries or situations.
What is N's Zekrom AR and why is it sought after?
N's Zekrom AR (Alternate Art Rare) from the Japanese set Paradigm Trigger is one of the most visually iconic cards in the modern era, featuring N and Zekrom in a full-art illustration. It's a Japan-exclusive print that commands a significant premium in the US secondary market — making it a prime candidate for JP import savings.
What does the Terastal Festival Umbreon Master Ball Foil look like in value?
Terastal Festival cards with Master Ball foiling are among the rarest treatment variants in modern Pokémon TCG. The Umbreon variant in particular carries a strong premium due to Umbreon's collector popularity. Use the Pack EV calculator with the Terastal Festival preset and adjust the chase rare value to the current market price.