The trade for gadget buy-and-sell is a popular niche online, but is it a wise market? What do you need to know before selling your smartphone or buying a new tablet online? We’ve asked our pool of experts who sell electronics, and here are the key things to take into account to make a gadget buy-and-sell operation run efficiently.
TIPS FOR BUYERS
- Warranty Status
A manufacturer’s warranty covers most gadgets, but it can be of varying lengths. Talk with the manufacturer about warranty regulations for the unit you’re considering.
- Amount of Use
As much as possible, look for gadgets that have seen relatively little use since most of their features (e.g., buttons, controls, and screens) have limited lifetimes. Buttons may stick out or become too or less sensitive, while screens may become too cloudy or scratched.
- Original Software and Accessories
All too often, gadgets sold online lack necessary accessories such as chargers or data cables. They also lack the original software or paperwork. Keep in mind that these items are usually too expensive and difficult to replace.
- Service Plans
Most current electronic devices need a service plan or contract to be used to their full potential. Make sure that you’re clear on the service provider you’ll want to use or the cost of the services required by the device to be functional.
- Gadget Performance
Many of today’s most popular devices rely on rechargeable batteries, which can only be charged and discharged a limited number of times before they crash. Watch out for vendors who don’t guarantee the device’s battery life, especially units without user-replaceable battery packs. Service expenses to replace an inactive or dead battery can simply surpass any savings you may otherwise have gained.
Related: Fixing a Broken Gadget versus Buying a New One.
TIPS FOR SELLERS
- Functions and Features
Most gadget users don’t take full advantage of all the units’ functions and features. For any particular user and device, some plug-ins go untouched, a few buttons are unused, and some apps are not launched. Your buyer, however, might rely on exactly the functions you never use. Before selling a gadget, especially a used unit, check out ALL of its functions and features to the best of your ability.
- Battery Condition
If you’ve used the device you’re selling extensively and it’s rechargeable, the battery is likely nearing the end of its life cycle. This may lead to irate transactions or even disputes down the road. Tell the truth about the level of use your device has received. Avoid providing battery guarantees unless you are positive it is in good condition (e.g., you’ve just replaced it).
- Legal and Intellectual Property
When listing an item for sale, it is tempting to add some free software or use stock photos to represent your gadget. However, you need to make sure that you are legally in a position to sell or include these “freebies” before doing so. Otherwise, you may find yourself in the middle of an unexpected legal battle.
- Market Price
Don’t expect to get the initial expense back if you’re selling a used device, even if you just purchased it recently or have barely used it. Electronic devices drop their value quickly, so the implausible goal of recovering your costs can mean failure to make money at all. Read through listings online and check rates for the same device before selling.
In Conclusion
Buying and selling used and new gadgets can be a straightforward process as long as all parties play by the rules. Communication is the key to a smooth buy-and-sell trade, whether you are the seller or the buyer.
