Trade-in Guide
How to trade in your phone — step by step.
From getting a quote to getting paid, here's everything you need to know about selling your device to Cellphone King, including how to wipe your data and pack it safely.
How the buyback process works
Five simple steps from quote to cash.
1. Get your instant quote
Visit our Sell Your Device page, select your brand, model, storage, and condition. Answer a few quick questions about functionality and you'll receive an estimated offer in seconds — no obligation.
2. Accept your offer
Happy with the estimate? Submit your contact details and choose how you want to get paid. We'll review your submission and send a confirmed offer, usually within one business day.
3. Prepare & pack your device
Back up your data, sign out of all accounts, and factory reset (steps below). Pack your device securely in a box with padding so it survives the trip to us.
4. Ship it (mail-in) or drop off
Choose mail-in and we'll email you a prepaid shipping label, or drop your device off at our Honolulu store. Track your shipment anytime from the buyback status page.
5. Get paid
Once we receive and inspect your device, we issue your final offer. Accept it and we'll send payment your way — check, store credit, or direct transfer.
Prepare Your Phone
Get your phone ready to trade in
Follow our simple step-by-step guide to protect your personal information and get your device ready for Cellphone King Store.
Before handing over your phone, back up your important information, remove your personal accounts, and prepare your device for a safe handoff. Choose your device type below to see the instructions.
Before erasing your phone, make sure your photos, contacts, messages, and other important data are backed up. Make sure you can access the accounts associated with your device. If you are unsure how to prepare your phone, contact Cellphone King Store before resetting it.
Protect your data before you ship
Follow these steps to wipe your personal info so your device is ready for its next owner.
Back up your data
Save photos, contacts, and files to iCloud, Google, or a computer. Once you reset, anything left on the device is gone for good.
Sign out of all accounts
Sign out of iCloud / Apple ID (iPhone) or remove your Google account (Android) before resetting. This disables activation lock so the next owner can use it.
Factory reset
iPhone: Settings → General → Transfer or Reset → Erase All Content. Android: Settings → System → Reset → Erase all data.
Remove SIM & SD cards
Pop out your SIM card and any microSD storage. These stay with you, not the device.
Packing tips for mail-in trades
A well-packed device arrives safely and gets inspected faster.
Charge it first
A charged device lets us power it on and inspect it quickly. Aim for at least 50% battery.
Take clear photos
Snap a few photos of the screen, back, and edges before packing. They help if there's ever a question about condition.
Pad it well
Wrap the device in bubble wrap or soft cloth and fill empty space in the box so it doesn't shift in transit.
