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📱 Electronics Reselling

Reseller Guide
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The Reality of Electronics

Electronics reselling is NOT for beginners. Higher margins come with higher risks:

  • Return fraud: Buyers swap parts or claim not working
  • Rapid depreciation: New models tank old prices overnight
  • Testing requirements: You must verify everything works
  • Shipping damage: Fragile items need proper packaging
  • iCloud/activation locks: Locked phones are worthless

⚠️ Golden Rule: Never buy electronics you can't test. Never sell electronics you haven't tested. Document everything with video.

Phones & Tablets

Before Buying - Check These

  • IMEI status: Use swappa.com/esn or imeipro.info to verify not blacklisted
  • Activation lock: iPhone must be signed out of iCloud. Settings > Apple ID should show "Sign In"
  • Google lock: Android must be factory reset with Google account removed
  • Carrier status: Unlocked is worth more than carrier-locked
  • Battery health: iPhone: Settings > Battery > Battery Health. Under 80% = significant discount

Testing Checklist

  • Screen: dead pixels, burn-in, touch response all areas
  • Buttons: power, volume, mute switch, home button
  • Cameras: front and back, flash, video recording
  • Speakers: earpiece, loudspeaker, microphone
  • Charging: wired and wireless if applicable
  • Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, cellular (if possible)
  • Face ID / Touch ID functionality

💡 Pro Tip: Record a video of yourself testing the device before shipping. If buyer claims DOA, you have proof it worked.

Laptops & Computers

Key Specs That Affect Value

Component Impact on Value
Processor i3 < i5 < i7 < i9. Gen matters (10th gen > 8th gen)
RAM 8GB minimum. 16GB+ commands premium
Storage SSD >> HDD. 256GB minimum, 512GB+ preferred
GPU Dedicated graphics (NVIDIA/AMD) = gaming premium
Screen 1080p minimum. 4K, OLED, high refresh = premium

Data Wiping - CRITICAL

  • Windows: Settings > System > Recovery > Reset this PC > Remove Everything
  • Mac: Restart, hold Command+R, Disk Utility > Erase, then reinstall macOS
  • For extra security: Use DBAN (Darik's Boot and Nuke) for HDDs
  • SSDs: Secure erase via manufacturer tools

⚠️ NEVER sell a computer without wiping it. Previous owner's data = liability. Always do a clean OS install.

Gaming Consoles

Testing Requirements

  • Powers on and reaches home screen
  • Controllers sync and all buttons work
  • Disc drive reads discs (if applicable)
  • Downloads/updates work (verify online connectivity)
  • HDMI output clear, no artifacts
  • No overheating during 10+ minute test

Account Issues

  • PlayStation: Must be deactivated as primary. Factory reset removes accounts.
  • Xbox: Remove account from console. Factory reset.
  • Nintendo Switch: Deregister from Nintendo account. Format console.
  • Digital games don't transfer - only physical games have resale value

💡 Bundle Strategy: Consoles with controllers + games sell faster and for more than console alone. Bundle to increase average order value.

Shipping Electronics Safely

  • Original box is best: Commands higher price and provides perfect fit
  • No original box: Double-box with 2" cushioning minimum on all sides
  • Anti-static bags: Required for circuit boards, GPUs, RAM
  • Bubble wrap liberally: Screens especially need protection
  • Insurance: Always insure for full value. Don't skimp.
  • Signature confirmation: Required for items over $750

Avoiding Scams

When Buying

  • Meet at police station or public place for local deals
  • Test everything before paying - no exceptions
  • Check IMEI/serial against stolen databases
  • If price is too good to be true, it's stolen or broken
  • Avoid "I'll ship it" from local listings

When Selling

  • Video record packing process showing item working then going in box
  • Use signature confirmation for high-value items
  • Photograph serial numbers before shipping
  • Be wary of buyers wanting overnight shipping to forwarding addresses
  • New accounts with zero feedback asking for discounts = red flag

Where to Sell

Platform Best For Notes
eBay Everything Largest audience but highest scam risk. Use seller protections.
Swappa Phones, tablets, laptops Tech-focused. Verification required. Lower scam rate.
Facebook Marketplace Local sales Cash in person = safest. No shipping risk.
r/hardwareswap PC components Knowledgeable buyers. PayPal G&S required.
Back Market Refurbished phones Higher standards, consistent sales if you qualify.
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