Selling a faulty iPhone might seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and resources, you can turn your damaged device into cash. Whether it's a cracked screen, water damage, or hardware issues, there's a market for your broken iPhone. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you get the best value while contributing to environmental sustainability.
Understanding the Value of Faulty iPhones
Even in a non-functional state, iPhones retain value due to their components. Parts like screens, batteries, and motherboards can be refurbished or recycled. Companies and individuals often seek these parts for repairs or resale, making your broken iPhone a valuable asset.
1) Preparing your iPhone for Sale
Before selling your iPhone or other smartphone, ensure your data and personal information in that phone are secure.
· Backup Your Data: Use iCloud best one or iTunes to back up your data.
· Factory Reset: Erase all content and settings to protect your privacy.
· Remove SIM and Accessories: Take out your SIM card and any cases or screen protectors.
· Clean the Device: Wipe the phone gently to make it presentable.
2) Evaluating the Damage
Assess the extent of the damage to determine the bestselling approach.
· Minor Issues: Cracked screen or battery problems.
· Major Issues: Water damage, non-functional buttons, or motherboard issues.
· Non-Functional: The phone doesn't turn on or has multiple severe issues.
Understanding the damage helps in setting realistic expectations and choosing the right platform.
3) Choosing the Right Platform
Several platforms specialize in buying faulty iPhones.
a. Decluttr
Decluttr offers a straightforward process for selling broken iPhones. They refurbish 95% of the products they buy, and for the rest, parts are used to refurbish other items. They provide free shipping and a 28-day price lock-in.
b. ecoATM
ecoATM provides instant cash for broken iPhones through kiosks located nationwide. They accept devices that are faulty with various issues, including cracked screens of iPhone and water damage. The process is quick, and you receive payment on the spot.
c. SellBroke
SellBroke specializes in buying broken electronics. They offer prepaid shipping labels, and once they receive and inspect your device, you get paid promptly. They focus on recycling and reusing parts to minimize environmental impact.
d. Gadget Salvation
Gadget Salvation provides instant quotes for devices with issues like cracked screens. They accept a wide range of conditions and offer competitive prices. The process includes free shipping and quick payments.
e. REGEN (Pakistan)
For users in Pakistan, REGEN offers an online evaluation form to get a quote for your faulty iPhone. They provide a convenient process, including home pickups in certain areas.
4) Creating an Effective Listing
If you choose to sell your iPhone on marketplaces like eBay or Craigslist.
· Title: Clearly state the model and issue (e.g., "iPhone 12 – Cracked Screen – For Parts").
· Description: Be honest about the condition, including all known issues.
· Photos: Upload clear images showing the damage.
· Pricing: Research similar listings faulty phones to set a competitive price.
5) Shipping Your Device
When shipping your iPhone.
· Packaging: Use bubble wrap for phones and a sturdy box to prevent further damage.
· Tracking: Choose a shipping method with tracking to ensure it reaches the buyer.
· Insurance: Consider insuring the package, especially for higher-value devices.
6) Environmental Considerations
Selling your faulty iPhone contributes to reducing electronic waste. Platforms like Decluttr and ecoATM focus on refurbishing or recycling devices responsibly, minimizing environmental impact.
7) 9. 🔄 Should You Repair or Sell Faulty?
Before rushing to sell your phone, ask yourself whether repairing the iPhone that is damaged, first might increase its value:
🔧 When It’s Worth Repairing
· You can fix the issue yourself (e.g., replacing a cracked screen or battery).
· Repair cost is less than the resale price boost you'll gain.
· You have access to discounted repair services (e.g., AppleCare+ or local technician discounts).
💸 When to Skip Repairs
· Repairs cost more than resale profit.
· The phone has multiple issues (e.g., screen + logic board).
· You're looking to sell quickly with minimal hassle.
Tip: Use sites like iFixit.com to check the repair difficulty level and cost of parts.
8) 🆚 Side-by-Side Platform Comparison
9) ⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Misrepresenting the Condition
Never lie about the iPhone's faults. Platforms may reject the sale, reduce payment, or suspend your account.
🚫 Ignoring iCloud Lock
A phone with Find My iPhone or iCloud activation lock enabled is nearly impossible to sell. Make sure to:
· Sign out of iCloud
· Turn off Find My iPhone
· Factory reset the device
🚫 Not Resetting Properly
· Use Apple’s steps for resetting:
· Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings
10) 🛡️ Legal & Safety Tips for Selling
📃 Proof of Ownership
Ensure you have legal ownership. Avoid buying or selling phones with unknown origins.
🔐 Erase Data Securely
Use Apple's guide or a certified data-wiping tool to ensure no personal data remains.
🤝 Safe Transactions (Local Sales)
· Meet in public (e.g., police stations, cafés)
· Accept only cash or secure mobile payment
· Avoid buyers with vague or suspicious behavior
11) 🌍 International Options to Sell Faulty iPhones
If you're outside the U.S., you can still sell broken iPhones through these platforms:
· REGEN (Pakistan)
· MusicMagpie (UK)
· Cashify (India)
· Back Market (Global)
· Swappa International Shipping (limited availability)
Each offers its own trade-in options, courier pickups, and device evaluations.
12) 📈 Why the Market for Faulty iPhones Is Growing
The refurbished tech market is expected to exceed $70 billion globally by 2027. Contributing factors include.
· Rising new iPhone prices
· Increased demand for parts
· Growth of repair and resale services
· Environmental awareness driving secondhand use
Selling your faulty iPhone now taps into this expanding market.
13) 📋 FAQ – Selling Faulty iPhones
❓ Can I sell a completely dead iPhone?
Yes. Many sites, including InstaWireless and Decluttr, accept non-working or dead phones for parts.
❓ What if my iPhone is water-damaged?
It’s still sellable, though you’ll receive less. Describe the issue clearly when getting quotes.
❓ What’s the best site for top payout?
If your phone has minor issues, try eBay or Swappa for higher returns. For ease and speed, InstaWireless, Decluttr, and ecoATM are better.
❓ Can I sell a locked phone?
Some platforms accept carrier-locked phones, but iCloud-locked or blacklisted phones are usually rejected or only sold "for parts."
❓ Do I need accessories or box?
Not at all. Selling just the phone is completely acceptable unless you're trying to get maximum value through private listings.
14) 🧠 Conclusion: Turn Tech Trash into Cash
A faulty iPhone isn’t worthless—it’s an opportunity. Whether you want to.
· Make quick cash (ecoATM)
· Maximize value (Swappa/eBay)
· Go the easiest route (InstaWireless, Decluttr)
…you’ve got options.
By understanding your device's condition, preparing it properly, and choosing the right platform, you can sell your broken iPhone securely and profitably—while helping reduce e-waste in the process. Selling a faulty iPhone is not only financially beneficial but also environmentally responsible. By choosing the right platform and following the proper steps, you can ensure a smooth transaction and contribute to sustainability.