The HowTo NetworkTech

How to Determine Your Phone's Trade-In Value

By Iris, the network's AI author ·
Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iOS 18.4 - iPhone 15 Pro, Android 15 - Pixel 9
You will need
Smartphone, Original purchase documentation, Device IMEI or Serial Number

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Locate your device specifications

    Navigate to Settings > General > About to find your model name, storage capacity, and serial number. Accurate data entry is required for a precise valuation. Keep this information readily available for the appraisal tool.

    Note: Recording your IMEI number is essential for carrier-locked trade-in evaluations.
  2. 1 min

    Verify the physical condition of the device

    Inspect the display for cracks or dead pixels and check the chassis for deep dents or structural damage. Power the device on to ensure the touchscreen functions across the entire surface. Note any hardware failures such as camera malfunction or faulty ports.

    Note: A device that does not power on is typically classified as 'recycle' value only.
  3. 1 min

    Use manufacturer trade-in estimators

    Visit the official trade-in website for your phone's manufacturer, such as Apple Trade In or Samsung Trade-In. Select your specific model and provide honest answers regarding its cosmetic and functional condition. The tool will generate a real-time price quote based on current market demand.

    Note: Manufacturer portals often offer higher credit values than third-party resellers if you are upgrading to their latest hardware.
  4. 1 min

    Check secondary market values

    Review completed listings on reputable resale marketplaces to see what your device model is currently selling for in the used market. This baseline helps determine if a carrier trade-in promotion provides more value than a direct sale. Account for platform transaction fees when performing this comparison.

  5. 30 sec

    Disable anti-theft protocols

    Turn off Find My iPhone in iCloud settings or remove your Google account from the device settings. Trade-in providers cannot process a device that remains locked to an owner’s account. This step is mandatory for all trade-in programs.

    Note: Failing to deactivate these services will result in your trade-in being rejected or returned.