Who Buys Used Cell Phones Near Me

by John M · Published November 20, 2023 · Updated November 20, 2023

Are you looking to get rid of a used cell phone? There are a few different options for selling your old cell phone. You can sell it to a phone recycling or re-commerce company, pawn it, sell it yourself, trade it in for store credit, or trade it in for a new phone. In this article, I will discuss who buys used cell phones, the pros and cons of each buyer, how much you can get, and other FAQs. I will also share my experience with the place who buys used cell phones near me.

Map of Who Buys Used Cell Phones Near Me

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Who Buys Used Cell Phones Near Me

There are a few different types of companies who buy used cell phones near me. You can find physical stores and online options for selling your phone.

Phone Recycling or ReCommerce Companies

They will take your phone, refurbish it, and sell it to someone else. The amount of money you get from a phone recycling company will depend on various factors: the make, model, and condition of your phone. For example, paid today, if you have an iPhone 6 that is in good condition, you could get around $50.

Pros of Selling to Phone Recycling or ReCommerce Companies

Get money for your old phone.
Visiting a phone recycling program in person means getting paid quickly
Support sustainability.
These companies usually have an easy process to follow and get paid.
Will buy broken and non-working devices

Cons of Selling to Phone Recycling or ReCommerce Company

You can make more money selling the phone to a private buyer
If you do an online transaction, the process can take 24 to 48 hours to get paid.

Reputable Cell Phone Recyclers

Find a Trade-In Program

A trade-in program is when you take your used phone, and the company will give you a discount on a new phone or a store credit. The amount of the trade-in price offer depends on the value of your phone. For example, Apple will give you $100 off an iPhone XR if you trade in an iPhone 7 Plus.

Pros of Trading In Your Phone

You get a discount on a new phone or a store credit.
The process is usually easy and can be done online or in-store.
The transaction and credit happen fast if you are at a physical location.
Most cell carriers like AT&T, Apple, Verizon, Sprint, and T-Mobile all offer trade-ins.
Will buy broken and non-working devices

Cons of Trading In Your Phone

You will not get as much money for your phone as you would if you sold it to a private buyer or recycling company.
The phone has to be in good condition to get the full value.
If you do an online transaction, the process can take 24 to 48 hours to get a trade-in credit.

Reputable Trade-In Programs

Pawn Shop Who Buys Used Cell Phones Near Me

When you take your used cell phone to a pawn shop, they will appraise it and make you a lowball offer on the value of your phone. Unless you have a newer model, they are not going to offer a loan.

The amount of money you can get from your phone worth a pawn shop depends on the make, model, and condition of your phone, but you can typically expect to get around 10% to 20% of the phone’s value. Here are some tips for dealing with a pawn shop.

Pros of Pawning Your Phone

You can get quick cash.
The process is usually easy.
You can negotiate the price.

Cons of Pawning Your Phone

This will be your lowest-paying option
High-pressure sales
Won’t take broken cell phones

Find a Local Pawn Shop

Click here

Sell Your Phone Yourself

Selling your phone yourself will get you the most money for your phone. The amount of money you can get for your old cell phone depends on the make, model, and condition of the phone. You can typically expect to get 50% to 80% of the phone’s value.

Pros of Selling Your Phone Yourself

You get the most money for your phone.
You can choose when and how to sell your phone.

Cons of Selling Your Phone Yourself

It takes more time to find a buyer and complete the sale.
The phone has to be in working condition.
You have to deal with strangers.
You are responsible for shipping the phone.
There is a risk of fraud and scams.
You may also have to pay a commission to the site you sell it on and shipping unless you defer it to the buyer.

Marketplaces to Sell Used Cell Phones

How to Prep a Phone Before Selling or Recycling It

With smartphone identity theft being high, it is critical to wipe your phone before selling it and take other steps to ensure you personal accounts are protected.

Do a factory reset: This will delete all your data from the phone.
Remove your SIM card: Take out the SIM card and put it in a safe place. You can reactivate it when you get your new phone.
Delete your iCloud account: If you have an iPhone, go to Settings > iCloud and tap “Delete Account.”
Remove any other accounts: If you have any other accounts on your phone, such as a Google account, make sure to remove those as well.
Gather your accessories: If you have the original charger and box, include those with the phone.
Clean your phone: Give your phone a good cleaning before selling it.
Check the warranty: If your phone is still under warranty, check to see if there are any restrictions on selling it.
Get an estimate: Use an online tool like Gazelle to get an estimate of how much your phone is worth.

Selling Your Old Cell Phone

Choose your selling method: You can sell your phone on a site like Gazelle, or you can list it on a site like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or eBay. There are pros and cons to each.
Set a price: When setting a price, take into account the condition of the phone, the model, and how much similar phones are selling for.
List your phone: Write a good description of your phone and include clear photos.
Get paid: Make sure you get paid before you hand over the phone. Cash is best, but you can also accept a PayPal payment or a check.
Give the buyer the phone: Once you’ve received payment, give the buyer the phone and all accessories or ship it via the agreed upon method.
Rate the buyer: If you sold your phone on a site like eBay, be sure to leave feedback for the buyer.

How to Evaluate Your Used Cell Phone’s Value

When you’re ready to upgrade your phone, you might wonder, “What is my old phone worth?” Evaluating your used cell phone’s value doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the factors that affect your used smartphone phone’s value and how to appraise it effectively.

Understanding the Factors That Affect Your Phone’s Value

Model and Brand: The model and brand of your phone play a significant role in determining its value. For instance, a certified pre-owned iPhone usually holds its value better than many other brands.
Age of the Device: Generally, the newer your phone, the higher its value. Phones released in the past two decades have seen a rapid evolution, so a model that’s just a year or two old can still fetch a good price.
Condition: The physical and operational condition of your phone is crucial. A phone in ‘like new’ condition, such as a like new iPhone, will be valued higher than one with visible damage or functional issues.
Market Demand: The demand for certain models, like those often found when searching for phones online, can influence the resale value. Popular models tend to retain more value.

Tips for Appraising Your Phone’s Worth

Check Online Valuation Tools: Many websites offer tools to estimate your phone’s value. Simply select your phone’s make, model, and condition to get a price estimate. Remember, device values vary, so check a few different sites.
Compare Prices on Resale Sites: Look at prices for similar models on sites where used smartphones are sold. This gives you a realistic idea of what buyers are willing to pay.
Consider the Selling Platform: Where you choose to sell can affect the price. Selling directly on platforms like eBay might fetch a higher price than using the nearest ecoatm.

Comparing Different Valuation Tools

EcoATM: If you’re looking for convenience ecoatm offers a quick way to get an estimate. You can download the mobile app today and use the ecoatm app lock feature for a secure process. The kiosk evaluation at your local grocery store or shopping malls can provide an instant cash offer.
Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay or Amazon give you a broader audience and potentially a better deal. You can list your phone and set your own price based on the device value.
Carrier Trade-In Programs: Many carriers offer trade-in options where you can get credit towards a new phone. The trade value might be lower than selling it outright, but it’s a quick and safe selling process.

In conclusion, understanding the value of your used cell phone involves considering various factors like brand, condition, and market demand. Utilizing different valuation tools, from ecoatm kiosks to online marketplaces, can help you find the best price today for your device.

Remember, the effort you put into appraising your phone can lead to a more rewarding selling experience and ensure you get the best possible return on your old device.

Safety and Security Considerations When Selling Your Used Cell Phone

Selling your used cell phone can be a great way to earn some extra cash, but it’s important to do it safely and securely. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind to protect your personal data, avoid scams, and ensure safe payment methods.

Protecting Personal Data Before Selling

Back Up Your Data: Before you even think about selling, make sure to back up all your personal data. This includes contacts, photos, messages, and any other important information. Services like iCloud for iPhones or Google Drive for Android devices can be used for this purpose.
Factory Reset: Once your data is backed up, perform a factory reset on your device. This will erase all your personal information and restore the phone to its original settings. It’s a crucial step to protect your personal accounts and information.
Remove SIM and SD Cards: If your phone has a SIM or an SD card, remove them. These cards can contain personal information and are linked to your network provider and storage.
Recommend Factory Resetting: Even after you’ve done a factory reset, it’s a good practice to recommend factory resetting to the new owner as well. This ensures double safety for your data.

Avoiding Scams and Fraudulent Buyers

Know Your Buyer: When selling online, try to gather as much information as possible about the buyer. Use platforms that verify the identity of buyers and sellers.
Beware of Overpayment Scams: Be cautious if a buyer offers to pay more than the asking price. This is a common scam tactic where the scammer then asks for the difference to be returned, often before their fake check bounces.
Meet in Safe Retail Locations: If you’re selling in person, choose safe retail locations like a local Walmart or a Kroger grocery store. Public places with good visibility and foot traffic are safer for transactions.
EcoATM Kiosks: For a completely secure transaction, consider using an ecoATM kiosk. These kiosks are regularly cleaned and offer a safe selling process with immediate payment.

Safe Payment Methods

Digital Payments: Use secure digital payment methods like PayPal or Venmo. These services offer buyer and seller protection and avoid the need for human contact.
Avoid Cash Transactions: While cash is often king in second-hand sales, it can be risky. There’s no record of the transaction, and it requires meeting in person, which can be unsafe.
EcoATM Payment: If you use an ecoATM, the payment is secure and immediate. The kiosk evaluates your phone and offers a price today, paying you on the spot.
Document the Transaction: Whether you’re selling online or in person, document the transaction. Keep records of messages, emails, and any other communication. This can be crucial if any disputes arise later.

In summary, when selling your used cell phone, it’s essential to take steps to protect your personal data, be vigilant against scams, and choose safe payment methods.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a secure and successful sale, contributing to a healthier planet by reducing electronic waste and giving your old phone a new life.

FAQs About Who Buys Used Cell Phones Near Me

How much can I expect to get for my used cell phone?

This answer depends on the make, model, and condition of your phone. You can typically expect to get around 10% to 20% of the phone’s value from a pawn shop, 50% of device value from a recycling company, and up to 80% of device value from a private buyer.

Where is the best place to sell my used cell phone near me?

The best place to sell your used cell phone depends on how much money you want to make, how quickly you need the cash, and the condition of your phone. If you need quick cash, a pawn shop is your best bet. If you want to get the most money for your phone, sell it to a private buyer.

What should I do with a used cell phone?

You have a few different options for what to do with your old cell phone. You can sell it to a private buyer, recycle it, trade it in, or pawn it.

Can I sell a broken phone?

Yes, you can sell a broken cell phone to a recycling company.

What is the best way to recycle an old phone?

The best way to recycle an old cell phone is by using a reputable recycling company. Some only the good stuff, companies that will recycle your old cell phone for you are Gazelle, GreenBuyBack, and SellBroke.

What do cell phone recyclers do with old phones?

Cell phone recyclers will often refurbish and resell the phones or recycle the parts and materials to sell phones.

Can I donate a used phone to charity?

Yes, you can donate your old cell phone to charity. Some charities that accept cell phone donations are Cell Phones for Soldiers, HopeLine from Verizon, and the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

Who Buys Used Cell Phones Near Me – Conclusion

Selling your old cell phone is a great way to get some extra cash. Before you proceed, it’s essential to wipe your data and remove any accounts to ensure your personal information is secure. One convenient option is to use the mobile app today download feature from ecoATM, which simplifies the process of selling your phone.

If you’re looking for the nearest ecoatm kiosk, their website or app makes it easy to locate one. These kiosks are known for their extensive security features, ensuring a safe transaction. Additionally, keep an eye out for upcoming bonus cash offers which can increase the amount you get for your phone.

For those who prefer online platforms, Gazelle is a great choice. They often have new blog releases that provide valuable tips on selling qualified devices. Another option is eBay, where you can list your phone for sale. Remember, always ensure you’re paid today before handing over the phone. eBay also encourages sellers to leave feedback, fostering a trustworthy community.

By choosing to sell your phone, you’re not just earning extra money but also helping to reduce electronic waste. This is crucial for maintaining a natural environment for future generations. Whether you choose ecoATM or another platform, you’re contributing to a cycle where electronics are properly recycled.

For those who prefer not to receive ongoing communications, most platforms offer an option to opt out of ecoatm emails. However, staying subscribed can keep you informed about the best deal and other locations where services are available.

In conclusion, whether you’re giving your used smartphone a second life, looking for the best price offer, or simply wanting to declutter responsibly, the process is now more streamlined than ever. Remember, during earth month and beyond, every sale removes one more device from the risk of becoming toxic electronic waste. Stay updated by choosing to receive ecoatm emails and regularly check their website for the most up-to-date information.

Who Buys Used Cell Phones Near Me

Map of Who Buys Used Cell Phones Near Me