CASHMYCELL - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Everything you need to know about selling your phone with CashMyCell.
GETTING STARTED WITH CASHMYCELL
What exactly is CashMyCell and how does it work?
CashMyCell is phone price comparison marketplace. Think of us as the "search engine" for selling your phone - we instantly compare offers from verified buyback companies so you always get the highest price available.
Here's how we're different from other sites:
- We don't buy your phone - we connect you with dozens of companies that do
- 100% free - we make money through partnerships, not from you
- Completely unbiased - we show you ALL offers, ranked by price
- Time saver - one search instead of visiting multiple websites
Real Example: The same iPhone 14 Pro Max might get offers ranging from $350 to $485 depending on which buyer you choose. Without comparing, you could lose $135! CashMyCell ensures you never leave money on the table.
Why should I use CashMyCell instead of going directly to a buyback site?
Going directly to one buyback site is like accepting the first job offer you get without checking if other companies pay more. Here's what you're missing:
- Price differences are huge: The same device can vary by $100-200 between buyers
- Checking multiple sites takes hours: CashMyCell does it in 30 seconds
- Not all buyers are equal: We show reviews, payment speed, and reliability
- Prices change daily: A buyer offering top dollar today might be mid-range tomorrow
Money-Saving Tip: Even if you found one buyback site you like, always check CashMyCell first. You might discover they're offering $50 less than their competitor today!
THE SELLING PROCESS
What's the complete step-by-step process to sell my phone?
Selling your phone through CashMyCell takes less than 2 minutes and 3 simple steps:
- STEP 1: Get Your Quote in less than 60 seconds
- Enter your device make and model in our search box
- Select your device's condition (Brand New, Excellent, Good, Average, Damaged)
- Choose storage size and carrier if applicable
- See instant offers from multiple buyers ranked by price
- STEP 2: Choose Your Buyer
- Review offers, payment methods, and customer ratings
- Click "Get Paid" on your preferred offer
- Complete a quick order form (name, address, payment preference)
- Receive instant order confirmation via email with shipping label
- STEP 3: Ship & Get Paid
- Print your free prepaid shipping label
- Backup and factory reset your device
- Package securely and drop at nearest shipping location
- Buyer receives, inspects, and sends payment within 1-3 days
What devices can I sell through CashMyCell?
We accept a huge range of smartphones in ANY condition:
- iPhone (all models from iPhone 6 to latest)
- Samsung Galaxy (S series, Note series, Z Flip, Z Fold)
- Google Pixel
- OnePlus, Motorola, LG, Sony, and more
Can't find your device? Just search for it on our homepage! If it doesn't appear, none of our buyers are currently purchasing that model. Contact us and we'll try to get it added.
PRICING & OFFERS
How do I find out what my phone is worth?
Getting your phone's value takes literally less than 60 seconds:
- Go to CashMyCell.com
- Type your phone model in the search box (e.g., "iPhone 14 Pro" or "Samsung S23")
- Select your device's condition from the dropdown
- Instantly see offers from multiple buyers ranked highest to lowest
Price Factors: Your phone's value depends on:
- Model & Age: Newer flagship models worth $300-800+
- Condition: Perfect condition gets 40-60% more than broken
- Storage Size: 256GB typically worth $30-80 more than 128GB
- Carrier Lock: Unlocked phones worth 20-30% more
- Market Timing: Prices drop 10-20% when new models release
Why do prices vary so much between different buyers?
It's not unusual to see price differences for the exact same phone! Here's why:
Different Business Models:
- Refurbishers: Fix and resell in US - can pay more for popular models
- Exporters: Ship to international markets - pay premium for certain brands
- Parts Harvesters: Dismantle for components - pay less overall
- Wholesale Buyers: Bulk operations - prices depend on current inventory needs
Other Factors:
- Current inventory: Buyers pay more for models they need right now
- Operational costs: Larger operations can afford higher payouts
- Seasonal demand: Back-to-school and holidays affect prices
- New releases: Prices drop when new models launch
This is EXACTLY why comparing is crucial! Without CashMyCell, you'd have no idea if you're getting $250 or $350 for the same phone. One search ensures you always see the highest available offer.
PAYMENT METHODS & TIMING
How will I receive my payment?
Most buyers offer multiple payment options - you choose your preference when placing the order:
- PayPal (Most Popular)
- Check / Paper Check
- Direct Deposit / Bank Transfer
- Venmo / Cash App / Zelle
Want Money Fast? Choose PayPal, Venmo, or Zelle when placing your order. You'll get paid within 1-2 days of your device being approved vs. 7-10 days for paper check!
SHIPPING YOUR DEVICE
Do I have to pay for shipping?
No! Almost all buyers on CashMyCell offer 100% FREE shipping.
What's included in free shipping:
- ✅ Prepaid shipping label emailed to you instantly
- ✅ Free shipping insurance (up to your phone's value)
- ✅ Tracking number to monitor your package
- ✅ Some buyers even send free shipping kits with packaging!
How it works:
- After accepting an offer, you'll receive a shipping label via email
- Print the label and attach to your package
- Drop at USPS, UPS, or FedEx (depending on label)
- No payment needed - it's completely prepaid!
How should I package my device for shipping?
Proper packaging protects your device and ensures you get paid the full amount:
📦 Packaging Checklist:
- Use a sturdy box or padded envelope - Don't use thin envelopes that can tear
- Wrap device in bubble wrap - At least 2-3 layers for protection
- Add cardboard for rigidity - Prevents bending during transit
- Fill empty space - Use packing peanuts, air pillows, or crumpled paper
- Secure with strong tape - Seal all openings completely
- Attach shipping label clearly - Make sure it's readable and secure
✅ DO:
- Use original packaging if you still have it
- Take photos of device before packing
- Remove phone from case before packing
- Turn device off before shipping
❌ DON'T:
- Include chargers, cables, or accessories (unless specified)
- Send SIM card or memory cards
- Leave device powered on
- Use packaging that's too tight or too loose
What if my package gets lost in shipping?
Don't worry - you're protected! Here's what happens:
🛡️ Built-in Protection:
- Tracking included: Every shipping label comes with tracking
- Insurance coverage: Packages are insured up to your device value
- Carrier responsibility: USPS/UPS/FedEx are liable for lost packages
If your package goes missing:
- Check tracking first: Sometimes packages are just delayed
- Contact the buyer: Email them with your tracking number
- File claim if needed: Buyer will initiate insurance claim with carrier
- Get compensated: You'll receive your quoted price via insurance
💡 Protect Yourself:
- Always get a receipt when dropping off at shipping location
- Save tracking number and check it periodically
- Take photos of packaged device before shipping
- Keep all communication with buyer via email (creates paper trail)
📱 UNDERSTANDING DEVICE CONDITIONS
How do I know what condition my phone is in?
Accurately selecting your device condition is crucial for getting the right price. Here are the official definitions:
- Device must be factory sealed in its original retail packaging with all included accessories and has never been activated.
- ESN/IMEI must be clean — no blocks, blacklist status, or outstanding financial balances.
- Device must be fully paid off and free from any carrier or financing obligations.
- A device in Excellent condition looks nearly perfect and performs flawlessly.
- No signs of use — no scratches, marks, dents, or cosmetic flaws
- Screen and body are flawless
- Battery health is 85% or higher
- All features, buttons, cameras, and components work perfectly
- A Good condition device shows normal wear from everyday use but works perfectly.
- Light to moderate cosmetic wear (small scratches or marks)
- No cracks, deep scratches, or major dents
- Battery health is 85% or higher
- 100% fully functional — all cameras, buttons, ports, and features work
- An Average condition device has heavier wear but remains fully functional.
- Significant cosmetic wear such as deep scratches, scuffs, dents, or discoloration
- No cracked screen or major structural damage
- Battery may be below 80% but still powers on
- Everything works — device is fully functional despite cosmetic flaws
- A Damaged device has issues affecting appearance or functionality.
- Examples include: Cracked or shattered screen, Faulty or unresponsive touchscreen, Battery not holding charge, Broken or non-working camera, Charging port / microphone / speaker not working, Software or booting issues
- Device may or may not power on depending on the damage
⚠️ Be Honest About Condition! If you select "Good" but send a device with a cracked screen, the buyer will revise your offer downward. It's better to be conservative and accurate than optimistic. When in doubt, choose the lower condition.
Can I sell a broken or damaged phone?
ABSOLUTELY YES! Broken phones still have significant value.
We accept phones with:
- 🔴 Cracked or shattered screens
- 🔴 Won't power on or charge
- 🔴 Water damage (some buyers only)
- 🔴 Dead battery
- 🔴 Broken cameras, buttons, or ports
- 🔴 Bent or dented body
- 🔴 Software issues or locked up
Why broken phones have value:
- Working components (camera, chips, displays) are extracted
- Some buyers refurbish and repair for resale
- Precious metals and materials can be recycled
- Parts used to repair other devices
How to sell broken phone:
- Search for your device model on CashMyCell
- Select "Damaged" from condition dropdown
- See offers from buyers who specialize in broken devices
- Choose best offer and ship FREE
💡 Don't throw it away! Even a completely dead phone is worth $50-$200. That's money in your pocket instead of a landfill!
What if the buyer disagrees with my condition assessment?
Buyers inspect every device upon arrival. If the condition doesn't match your description, here's what happens:
📧 Step 1: Buyer Contacts You
- You'll receive email within 24-48 hours of device arrival
- Email includes photos/videos showing the issues
- Detailed explanation of discrepancy
- Revised offer based on actual condition
✅ Step 2: You Have TWO Options
Option A: Accept Revised Offer
- Agree to the lower price based on true condition
- Payment processed immediately
- Transaction complete
Option B: Reject & Request Return
- Decline the revised offer
- Buyer ships device back to you FREE
- You receive device in same condition
- No payment, but no loss either
💡 Avoid Revisions: Take close-up photos of your device before shipping. Compare against condition definitions. When in doubt, select the more conservative condition. Better to be pleasantly surprised than disappointed!
⚙️ TECHNICAL PREPARATION
How do I prepare my phone before shipping it?
Properly preparing your device is CRITICAL. Follow this checklist exactly:
✅ COMPLETE PREPARATION CHECKLIST:
Step 1: Backup Your Data (Don't Skip!)
- 📸 Photos & Videos → Cloud storage or computer
- 📞 Contacts → Export or sync to Google/iCloud
- 💬 Messages → Backup if needed
- 📱 Apps & Settings → Note your installed apps
Step 2: Remove Accounts & Locks
- iPhone: Settings → [Your Name] → Sign Out → Turn OFF Find My iPhone
- Android: Settings → Accounts → Remove all accounts → Turn OFF Find My Device
- Log out of: Email, Banking apps, Social media, Messaging apps
Step 3: Factory Reset
- iPhone: Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings
- Android: Settings → System → Reset → Factory data reset
Step 4: Physical Preparation
- Remove SIM card (keep for new phone)
- Remove SD/memory card if applicable
- Remove phone case and screen protector
- Clean device with microfiber cloth
- Turn device OFF
🔴 CRITICAL - DO NOT SKIP: If you forget to remove iCloud or Google account locks, your device will be rejected and sent back! This is the #1 reason for order cancellations.
✨ Your buyer will send detailed instructions specific to your device model after you place your order. Follow both their guide and this checklist!
What is an IMEI number and where do I find it?
IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is your phone's unique 15-digit serial number.
Why it matters:
- Identifies your specific device (like a fingerprint)
- Used to check if phone is blacklisted
- Required by some buyers for verification
- Helps track device if lost/stolen
🔍 How to Find Your IMEI:
Method 1: Dial Code (Fastest)
- Open phone dialer
- Type: *#06#
- IMEI displays immediately (no need to press call)
Method 2: Settings Menu
iPhone:
- Settings → General → About → scroll to IMEI
Android:
- Settings → About Phone → Status → IMEI
Method 3: Physical Device
- iPhone: Check SIM tray or back of phone (older models)
- Android: Under battery (if removable) or on back
💡 Pro Tip: Write down your IMEI before factory resetting! You might need it later for warranty claims or carrier support.
Can I sell a phone with iCloud or Google account lock?
⚠️ YOU MUST REMOVE ACCOUNT LOCKS BEFORE SELLING!
Devices with iCloud (Find My iPhone) or Google (FRP) locks still active are essentially worthless to buyers because they cannot be activated or used.
🔴 What Happens If You Don't Remove Locks:
- Your order will be rejected
- Device shipped back to you (wasted time)
- OR buyer pays only "parts" value (90% less money)
✅ How to Remove iCloud Lock (iPhone/iPad):
Method 1: From Device (If You Have It)
- Settings → [Your Name] at top
- Scroll down → Sign Out
- Enter Apple ID password when prompted
- Settings → General → Transfer or Reset → Erase All Content
- Verify Find My iPhone is OFF during reset
Method 2: Remotely (If Device Already Sent)
- Go to iCloud.com on computer
- Sign in with your Apple ID
- Click Find My iPhone
- Select your device from "All Devices" dropdown
- Click "Remove from Account"
✅ How to Remove Google Account Lock (Android):
- Settings → Accounts → Remove all Google accounts
- Settings → Security → Find My Device → Turn OFF
- Settings → System → Reset → Factory data reset
- During setup, skip account sign-in to verify it's removed
🔴 THIS IS THE #1 REASON ORDERS GET REJECTED! Always double-check locks are removed BEFORE shipping. Take 5 extra minutes to verify - it could save you weeks of hassle!
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
Our customer support team is here to help you!
📧 Email: contact@cashmycell.com