If you’re like most people, you’ve got a few old devices gathering dust in a drawer somewhere. Maybe it’s an old phone, tablet, or gaming console. Whatever it is, it’s time to sell your used electronics for something new. Amazon Trade-In is a great program that lets you trade in your old devices for Amazon gift cards.

The entire process is pretty easy. Just head to the Amazon Trade-In website, search for the device you want to trade in and then follow the instructions.

Here’s how it works:

1. Tell Amazon about your device

  • Once you visit the Trade-In Store, you can see all the eligible items for trade-in. Additional items can be searched on the “Find more items” button. Select the item that you want to trade-in. Make sure to select the exact device with an exception to the color of the device.
  • Answer the questions on the screen regarding the condition of the device.
  • You will be given an option to choose what shall Amazon do in case they find your item to be in lower conditions than what you mentioned. You can either choose to get it returned to you (at no additional cost) or accept the appraised price.
  • Continue and provide an address in case the item is not accepted and has to be returned to you

2. Ship the item

  • Once you confirm the trade-in and submit it, you’ll receive a UPS shipping label. Print this label and attach it to your shipment’s package.
  • Make sure that the shipment is packed well to avoid any damage to the item during transit. Ship the item by the date indicated.
  • Make sure you keep your shipping tracking number so you can track the package.

3. Get paid

  • Once Amazon receives your item, they will inspect it for quality within 10 days.
  • Once the device is accepted by Amazon, you’ll receive an Amazon Gift Card with a price value equivalent to the appraised value of your device. This gift card can be used for your next purchase on Amazon. Apart from the gift card., they also provide discount promo codes for eligible purchases on Amazon.

And that’s it! It’s a pretty simple process and a great way to get rid of old devices you no longer use.

The best part of the program apart from the recycling and refurbishment service is that:

  • Amazon takes care of the shipping charge involved in sending the device. That said, the device gets shipped for free.
  • In case the item is not accepted at Amazon and you chose to get it returned to you – they’ll return it at no additional cost
  • If your device is in non-working condition, it is still eligible for trade-in.

What does Amazon do with your old electronics?

When you trade in your old electronics with Amazon, they will either recycle them or refurbish and resell them.

  • Recycle: Amazon has a strict recycling policy in place to make sure that your old electronics are recycled responsibly. All of the recycling is done by a certified recycler at Amazon Recycling Program.
    If your device does not qualify for trade-in, you can also choose to ship it for recycling through Amazon Recycling Program. Like trade-in program, Amazon takes care of the shipping cost involved in the process. This is a great initiative considering that you can simply empty your box of e-waste at no additional cost to you.
  • Refurbish: If your old electronics are still in good working condition, Amazon will refurbish them and then sell them as “Amazon Renewed” products. All the devices are inspected and tested for quality, performance, and looks before putting out for customers. These products come with the same Amazon Renewed Guarantee as all other products sold on Amazon, so you can be sure that you’re getting a quality product.

Purchasing Amazon refurbished items is a great option for anyone who does not want to expend a large chunk of bucks on a new item with similar performance and associated warranty as that of Amazon Refurbished items.

It is recommended that you perform the following three steps before trade-in:

  • Backup: Make sure to back up all your data that you might need in the future. This is important whether you are selling a computer, phone, or any other device that stores personal information. Additionally, if you want any settings from your old device to a new compatible device, a proper backup can help you do it in a relatively shorter time.
  • Sign-out: Sign out from all the accounts you have signed in on your device
  • Factory reset: It is advisable to perform a factory reset of the device to remove any personal information saved in the device

Why should you recycle or resell old electronics?

Many of us are surprised to learn that our old devices are worth a lot of money. When you resell old electronics, you not only make some extra money, but you also help keep these devices out of landfills. The old cell phones, laptops, and other electronics contain harmful chemicals that can leach into the ground and contaminate soil and water. Did you know that in 2019, the world generated around 53.6 million tonnes of e-waste? It is projected to grow up to 74 million tonnes by 2030. Recycling or reselling these items properly helps in keeping these out of the landfill and ensures environmental safety.

What are other initiatives by Amazon toward a sustainable world?

As Amazon continues to grow, they have shown commitment to using its size and scale to lead the way in reducing its environmental impact. The company has set a goal of being net zero carbon by 2040 and is constantly investing in renewable energy projects. Amazon has also pledged to use 100% renewable energy by 2035.

To help meet these goals, Amazon has launched the Amazon Aware – A Climate Pledge Friendly program. This program helps customers find and shop for products that have a lower environmental impact.

Climate Pledge Friendly products are those that meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • Made with recycled materials
  • Made with renewable energy
  • Generate less waste
  • Have a smaller carbon footprint
  • Are certified by an independent third party

When you shop for Climate Pledge Friendly products on Amazon, you’ll see a special badge that indicates which criteria the product meets. You can also filter your search results to only show Climate Pledge Friendly products.

Every decision we make has an impact on the world around us. Let’s make sustainable decisions that will help protect our planet for future generations.