An online trade-in figure may be guaranteed, conditional or merely an estimate. Before sending the phone, establish what the provider can change, what evidence it will use and whether you can reject a revised offer.
Record the quote
Save the date, exact model, storage, answers about condition, quoted value, expiry date, payment form and terms. Take screenshots or download the confirmation. Do not rely on being able to recreate the same quote later.
Classify the value
| Quote type | Question to ask |
|---|---|
| Cash or bank payment | When is it paid and by which company? |
| Store credit or gift card | Where can it be spent and does it expire? |
| Instant purchase discount | What happens if the inspection later reduces the value? |
| Promotional bonus | Is it separate from the base value and what purchase is required? |
| Provisional estimate | Can you reject the revised price and is return free? |
Read the condition test literally
Check power, screen, touch, buttons, cameras, charging, water damage, frame, activation locks and battery questions. “Working” may have a narrower definition than an ordinary user expects. Do not select a better condition because the defect seems minor.
Check the downgrade process
- How will the provider notify you?
- How long do you have to accept or reject?
- Will silence count as acceptance?
- Who pays return postage?
- What happens if the phone is returned damaged or incomplete?
- Is the promotional bonus also lost if the base valuation changes?
Compare the whole new-phone transaction
A higher trade-in bonus can sit beside a higher handset price, longer finance term or less suitable tariff. Compare the new purchase independently, then add the trade-in.
Check cancellation and new-purchase consequences
If the trade-in supports a new purchase, read what happens when either side changes. Returning the new phone may not automatically retrieve an old phone already accepted and processed. A reduced trade-in value may change the amount charged or financed. Save both sets of terms before committing.
Before dispatch
Remove accounts and locks, record the IMEI and condition, follow the provider’s packing instructions and keep tracking. Apple and Samsung both publish current preparation and programme information, but their values and eligibility change.
Related guidance: This check sits within Selling and Recycling. The Selling and Trade-In Guide covers the broader decision from start to finish.
Sources and date checked
Changing terms and operational details were checked on 25 July 2026. Recheck the current provider, marketplace, courier or recycling terms before acting.
