Guides
Selling a used phone, without the argument afterwards.
Last reviewed:
A second-hand phone sale is quick: you meet, check the phone, pay. The disputes come later, about a scratch, a battery, a missing charger or a phone that turns out to be locked. A short checklist and a written record of the sale avoid most of them.
For the seller
- Back up your data, sign out of your accounts and turn off any device-lock or "find my phone" feature, then reset the phone.
- Remove your SIM and memory card.
- Note the IMEI (dial *#06#) and the exact model and storage.
- Write down every known defect: scratches, battery health, repairs, non-original parts.
For the buyer
- Check that the IMEI on the phone matches the box or invoice.
- Make sure the phone is not locked to someone else’s account.
- Test calls, camera, speakers, charging port, screen and buttons.
- Check the battery health in the settings.
- Ask for the invoice or box if they exist.
What to record about the sale
- The model and the IMEI.
- The price and how it was paid.
- The condition, including known defects ("sold as is" if that is the deal).
- What is included: charger, box, case.
- The date and place of handover.
Doing it with SEAL
SEAL’s Sale template has fields for the item, price, delivery and condition. Fill it in together while you are still face to face, pair by showing the QR code, and seal the receipt before the phone and the money change hands.
See how this works in SEAL
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules differ between countries; for a specific situation, talk to a lawyer.