Buying a used cell phone can be a wise choice, if you know shop. There are many factors you must take into account when buying a "pre-owned" phone. Deciding whether to buy from a retailer or a private individual depends on certain factors.
Instructions
1. Determine which cell phone provider you'll use. Many phones are only compatible with certain cell phone providers. Decide what kind of phone you want, which features are important to you and how much you are willing to spend.
2. Read reviews. Once you have narrowed down your list of phones, read some reviews on the phones. Find out if each phone has any common manufacture's defects. This is especially important on phones that are newer versions. Red flags should go off if someone is selling a brand new version of a phone as a used phone.
3. Ask questions. Find out why this person is selling the phone, whether it has any damage and whether the phone is locked. You will not be able to have service turned on to the phone unless the seller has it unlocked.
4. Check out the return policy. You want at least 15 days to decide if the purchase was wise. Ask who pays for return shipping. If the shipping is too costly, buy from a different vendor.
5. Get the ESN code number. Some carriers use CDMA type phones instead of those that use SIM cards. If this is the case, you need to be sure that the ESN is clear. It can be difficult to activate a CDMA phone if the phone's serial number is tied to an account, lost or stolen or has an unpaid balance. If a balance is unpaid, the ESN will eventually be released for new activations within six months of the account being written off. To find out if an ESN is clear, ask for the ESN number on the phone and call the phone carrier. The customer service agents at your phone company can tell you the status of the ESN on that phone.
6. Keep all records of the purchase, in case you have a dispute over the phone.
7. Inspect the phone. Look at the label under the battery. If it is water damaged, the white sticker will be red.
Tags: cell phone