Start with Gazelle
Gazelle provides a structured trade-in path with an estimated offer, shipping instructions, inspection, and payment options.
gazelleGet your estimate
Answer questions about the exact phone, storage, carrier status, and condition.
Follow shipping steps
Use the provided instructions and label, then pack the phone securely.
Phone is inspected
The device and its condition are reviewed before the final payout is confirmed.
Receive payment
Select an available payment method after the final offer is accepted.
What affects your phone’s value?
A few basic factors usually determine the starting estimate and final inspected value.
Model and storage
Newer models and larger storage capacities generally retain more value.
Carrier or unlocked
Unlocked phones may appeal to more buyers and work across more carriers.
Overall condition
Clean, fully working phones generally receive stronger offers.
Screen and body
Cracks, deep scratches, dents, and missing parts can reduce value.
Battery and function
Charging, buttons, cameras, speakers, and battery behavior all matter.
Market demand
Popular models with current buyer demand may hold value longer.
Ways to sell your phone
Compare convenience, payout structure, time, and risk before choosing a method.
Gazelle Trade-In
Structured and convenient.
- Online estimated offer
- Shipping instructions
- Inspection process
- Payment after acceptance
People who prefer a guided process over finding an individual buyer.
Get a Gazelle OfferCarrier Trade-In
Often tied to an upgrade.
- May provide device or bill credit
- Promotions can raise value
- In-store or mail-in options
- Credits may have conditions
People already upgrading and remaining with the same carrier.
Review CarriersMarketplace Sale
More control, more work.
- Set your own asking price
- Reach a larger buyer pool
- Fees may apply
- Shipping and return risk
Experienced sellers willing to manage photos, buyers, shipping, and disputes.
Review Selling ChecklistLocal Private Sale
Direct, but higher personal risk.
- No shipping required
- Payment can be immediate
- More fraud and safety concerns
- Buyer may negotiate heavily
People comfortable verifying payment and meeting safely in a public location.
Read Safety GuidanceBefore you sell your phone
Protect your data, describe the phone accurately, and keep records until payment is complete.
Back up your data
Save photos, contacts, messages, and files to the cloud or a computer.
Factory reset the phone
Erase all content and settings only after the backup and account-removal steps are complete.
Sign out of accounts
Remove Apple ID, Google Account, Samsung Account, and other linked services.
Photograph the device
Take clear pictures of the screen, back, sides, serial information, and any damage.
Disable activation locks
Turn off Find My iPhone or Find My Device and remove the phone from account device lists.
Pack it securely
Use a sturdy box, protective padding, and the required shipment materials.
Remove SIM or eSIM
Remove the physical SIM and confirm whether the eSIM should be deleted or transferred.
Save tracking and records
Keep the offer, photos, serial or IMEI, shipping receipt, and tracking number.
Packing and shipping tips
A little preparation helps the phone arrive in the same condition in which it was offered.
Use protective padding
Wrap the phone so it cannot move freely or strike the sides of the box.
Use a sturdy box
Choose packaging that fits the protected device without excess empty space.
Use the correct label
Attach the provided label securely and follow any shipment deadline.
Keep proof of shipment
Retain the receipt and tracking number until inspection and payment are finished.
Frequently asked questions
How do I prepare my phone before selling it?
Back up the phone, sign out of all accounts, disable activation locks, remove SIM or eSIM information as appropriate, document the condition, and factory reset it.
When will I get paid?
Payment timing depends on the selling method. A trade-in service normally confirms payment after the phone is received, inspected, and the final offer is accepted.
Can I sell a cracked or damaged phone?
Some buyers accept damaged phones, but the condition must be disclosed accurately. Damage may substantially reduce the estimate or make the phone ineligible.
What should I include in the shipment?
Include only the phone and any items specifically requested. Do not include a SIM card or unrelated accessories unless the instructions require them.
What if the inspected value is lower than the estimate?
Review the inspection explanation and available choices before accepting. The seller controls its own inspection standards, revised offer, return process, and payout terms.
Need a replacement? Shop quality refurbished phones.
Compare the current Gazelle and eBay inventory with the same live feeds and phone-database matching already in use.
Shop Refurbished Phones →
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