Preparing your phone before reselling: the checklist
Before reselling your phone: back up your data, sign out of your iCloud (iPhone) or Google (Android) account to lift activation lock, remove the SIM and memory card, then erase everything with a factory reset. A device still tied to an account cannot be bought back.
Why it matters
Two reasons: protecting your personal data, and enabling the buyback. Activation lock (Find My iPhone, or the Google account on Android) blocks reuse while the device is tied to your account — a buyer can then neither test nor resell it.
The 6-step checklist
Follow these steps in order. Allow five to ten minutes, including the backup.
Step by step
- 1
Back up your data
On iPhone, run an iCloud or computer backup. On Android, use Google backup. Confirm photos and contacts are copied before going further.
- 2
Disable activation lock
iPhone: Settings → your name → Find My → turn off « Find My iPhone ». Android: remove the Google account and any manufacturer screen lock.
- 3
Sign out of accounts
Sign out of iCloud / Google, and also of messaging and banking apps if they're tied to the device.
- 4
Remove the SIM and memory card
Eject the physical SIM and any microSD card. If you use an eSIM, delete it in settings.
- 5
Factory reset
Run « Erase All Content and Settings » (iPhone) or « Factory data reset » (Android). The device restarts as if out of the box.
- 6
Clean and pack
Wipe the device, pack it well protected (ideally in its box) and use the prepaid label provided. Keeping the box and accessories can slightly raise the value.
Frequently asked questions
What if I forget to disable iCloud?
The device stays locked and can't be bought back. You can usually disable it remotely from your iCloud account, but that delays payment — better to do it before shipping.
Is my data really erased?
A factory reset erases your data. A serious refurbisher also performs a certified wipe on arrival, before any resale.
Should I keep the box and accessories?
Not mandatory, but including the original box, cable or earphones can slightly raise the buyback price.
Preparing your phone before reselling: the checklist
Estimate my phone