Electronics Reselling Guide
Electronics can be highly profitable but carry more risk. Learn to test, price, and ship electronics safely while avoiding scams.
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.