Planning to sell your old phone? Smart move! It’s a great way to earn extra cash and give your device a second life. But before you hand it over to its next owner, there are a few important things you need to check.
Selling your phone isn’t just about wiping the screen and throwing it in a box. You’ll want to make sure your data is safe, the phone is in good shape, and you’re setting yourself up for a smooth transaction.
Here’s a simple checklist of things to do before selling your phone.
1. Back Up Your Data
Your phone probably holds a lot of precious stuff such as your photos, videos, contacts, apps, and maybe even notes or documents. Before selling it, back everything up.
For iPhone users, use iCloud or iTunes to create a backup. For Android users, Google Drive or your phone's built-in backup feature works just fine.
Once backed up, you’ll easily be able to restore everything on your new device. Thus, no lost memories or important files.
2. Sign Out of All Accounts
This step is super important for security. Make sure to log out of all accounts tied to your phone, Google, Apple ID, email apps, social media, and even online banking apps if you’ve used them.
For iPhones, don’t forget to turn off Find My iPhone before signing out of your Apple ID. For Android devices, remove your Google account from the settings.
Skipping this step could lock the next user out of the phone, or worse, leave your info vulnerable.
3. Perform a Factory Reset
Once you’ve backed up your data and signed out of all accounts, it’s time to wipe your phone clean. A factory reset erases everything including your apps, settings, files, and personal information, returning the phone to its original state.
Here’s how you can factory reset depending on your device:
Android: Settings - System - Reset - Factory Data Reset
iPhone: Settings - General - Transfer or Reset iPhone - Erase All Content and Settings
Conducting a factory reset on your device before selling it is a must-do for privacy and security.
4. Remove External Storage
If your phone has a microSD card, remove it before selling. You might have personal files or photos stored there that won’t get erased during a factory reset.
Even SIM cards should be removed since they also hold your mobile number and carrier information. You must keep these for your next device.
5. Check the Phone’s Condition
Be honest with yourself about your phone’s condition. Check for scratches, dents, or screen damage. Buyers appreciate transparency, and it helps avoid complaints later on.
If possible, clean your phone. You can do it by gently wiping the screen, clearing dust from ports, and maybe even using a disinfectant wipe (without soaking it). Presentation matters.
6. Gather Original Accessories and Box
Selling your phone with its original box, charger, earphones, or other accessories can increase its resale value. If you still have them, include them. It’s a small detail, but buyers often see it as a sign that the phone was well taken care of.
7. Check the Market Value
Before you list your phone for sale, check how much it’s currently worth. Look at online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, Carousell, eBay, or specific buy-and-sell phone platforms.
Consider the phone’s age, model, condition, and storage capacity. Setting a fair price can help you sell it faster while still getting your money’s worth.
A Little Prep Goes a Long Way
Selling your phone doesn’t have to be complicated. But taking the time to do these simple checks can save you from future headaches like dealing with lost data, security risks, or unhappy buyers.
At the end of the day, it's not just about making a quick sale but about protecting yourself and giving your old device a new home in the best possible way.
So before you box up that phone, run through this checklist. Then, check out Mobile Monster to sell your precious phone at the right price. Surely, you can make your old phones a worthy source of extra cash.