Selling your phone: the complete checklist

A phone with documented working condition sells faster, for more money, and without disputes afterwards. Here's the process – from function tests to secure data wiping.

1. Test and document everything

Used-phone buyers have two fears: hidden defects and stolen goods. You answer both with transparency. Run all HandyCheck tests and describe the condition honestly in your listing – including small flaws. A disclosed flaw lowers the price slightly; a concealed one gets you a return and a bad review.

2. Price it realistically

Compare sold (not asking-price) listings of your model in similar condition. Price factors: battery health (screenshot it – see the battery test for where to find it), display condition, original box and accessories, remaining warranty. Trade-in services pay less than private sales but remove effort and risk.

3. Back up and wipe securely

1. Create a backup (cloud or computer) and verify it on the new device before wiping anything.
2. Sign out of all accounts and remove activation locks: on iPhone disable Find My and sign out of iCloud; on Android remove the Google account. A device with an active account lock is worthless to the buyer – it's the most common reason sales fall through.
3. Delete or transfer the eSIM and remove the physical SIM; don't forget the memory card.
4. Then factory reset: modern devices are encrypted by default – the reset discards the encryption key, making your data practically unrecoverable. Stop at the setup screen: that's exactly how you hand the device over.

4. Secure the handover

Note the IMEI (dial *#06# in the phone app) for your records, along with the purchase receipt. A simple written sales agreement with model, IMEI, condition, price and "sold as seen" protects both sides. For in-person handovers: power the device on and let the buyer test it themselves – easiest with the tests on this site.