Complete Guide: What to Do Before Selling or Trading In Your iPhone [2025]

Part 1. Verify Before You Sell Old iPhone: IMEI Check & iPhone Valuation

IMEI checks are the easiest approach to avoid such issues.

1.1 What Is an IMEI Number and Why Does It Matter

IMEI numbers are unique to each iPhone, even the iPhone 17. The 15-digit International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) code for your phone is like a fingerprint. Mobile networks use it to authenticate your device. Before sell old iphone, check its IMEI. This single step gives important details like:

• Your iPhone's carrier lock or unlock
• Warranty and activation status
• If the device was stolen or lost

Why IMEI Checks Protect Sellers

Many internet incidents show merchants being deceived or prevented from trade-ins due to flagged IMEIs. This is why experts advise checking IMEI before selling. It cleans your phone's record and prevents fraud.

Where to Find Your iPhone's IMEI Number

Find your IMEI easily via numerous ways:

1. Scroll down to "About" in "Settings > General."



2. Look in the SIM tray or back of the device (older models).



3. Use *#06# on your iPhone to view the IMEI quickly.
4. Use Finder or iTunes on a computer-connected iPhone.

1.2 Step 1: How to Find Your iPhone's IMEI Number

Find your IMEI number before erasing or selling your old iPhone. This minor step is crucial before selling your iPhone because your IMEI verifies its identification and status.

Where to Find Your IMEI

You may find it easily using these methods:

Option 1: Through Settings

Step 1. Go to "Settings > General > About."

Step 2. Scroll down to "IMEI/MEID."

Step 3. Copy the number by long-pressing.

Option 2: SIM Tray or Device Back

Eject your SIM tray and look for a little IMEI marking on its side. The back case of older iPhones may also show it.

Option 3: Computer Finder/iTunes

Step 1. Connect the iPhone to the computer.

Step 2. Launch "Finder" on macOS Catalina 10.15 or later.

• Opening iTunes on macOS Mojave or earlier.
• Launch iTunes or Apple Devices on Windows.

Step 3. Find your device. In the "General tab," click the model name.

Step 4. Displays Serial Number, EID, and IMEI/MEID.

Step 5. Copy the serial number fast with "Edit > Serial Number."

Option 4: Call *#06#

Enter *#06# into your dialer to see your IMEI immediately.

More Ways to Find Serial Number, EID, or IMEI/MEID

Using Another Apple Device

Step 1. Open "Settings > [Your Name]" on another Apple ID-signed device.

Step 2. Scroll down for paired devices.

Step 3. Tap "This iPhone" for IMEI and serial number.

On the Original Box or Packaging

If you have the box, check the barcode. Your IMEI/MEID, EID, and serial number are listed.

1.3 Step 2: Use Dr.Fone to Get Full Device Report Online

Use your IMEI for a quick and full device check. Dr.Fone Online Unlock is a trusted tool for safely checking and unlocking devices before resale or trade-in. Dr.Fone Online Unlock by Wondershare is a reliable IMEI or serial number verification platform. It confirms whether your iPhone is carrier-locked, banned, or ready for sale, an important step before selling your iPhone.

IMEI Check Guide: Dr.Fone IMEI Check Online (Free)

1. Step 1. Visit the Dr.Fone IMEI Check website. Select your "check type" (carrier lock, blacklist status, warranty details) from the menu.



2. Step 2. Search for your IMEI and click "Check Now." Click "Illustrated Tutorial" to help you find your IMEI.



3. Step 3. Within seconds, you'll receive a complete check report. Download results via "Save Report." You can show buyers this file to ensure your iPhone is ready to sell.

1.4 Step 3: Assess iPhone 17 Resell Value

Check IMEI and resale value before selling your iPhone. Your phone's value helps you determine whether to sell old iphone privately or for store credit.

Price-affecting factors:

1. Carrier Status Unlocked iPhones always sell for more. Before selling your carrier-locked cellphone, use Dr.Fone Online Unlock to unlock it and increase its value.
2. Storage Capacity Higher storage increases resale value. For instance, 512 GB models cost 20—30% more than 128 GB ones.
3. Physical Condition Phones without cracks, scratches, or battery issues sell faster and cost more. A clean and factory-restored iPhone looks new for trade-in.
4. Age and Model Newer iPhones like the 17 and 16 are worth more. Find market pricing on trade-in sites.
5. Included Accessories Selling with the original box, charger, and cord can boost your offer by 10%.

Where to Check Resale Prices

1. The Apple Trade-In Program Exchange your old iPhone for quick credit or gift cards from Apple. The safest choice may have a lesser monetary value than private sales.
2. Online buyback stores like Gazelle or uSell They quote instantly and pay via PayPal or bank transfer. Ideal for busy users seeking rapid sales.
3. Swappa/Facebook Marketplace Set your pricing and negotiate with buyers on these channels. To build buyer trust, meet in public and exhibit your IMEI report.
4. Carrier Trade-Ins Check your carrier's promos to trade your old iPhone for a discount on a new plan if you plan to stay with them.

Part 2. Prepare Your iPhone: Backup, Sign Out & Secure Wipe

This section discusses backing up and safely erasing your iPhone before selling it.

2.1. Step 1: Create a Final Data Backup

Back up before resetting or erasing. Images, messages, settings, and passwords are protected. Your new iPhone will feel like your old one if you restore your backup.

Option 1: iCloud Backup

Step 1. Choose "Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud Backup."

Step 2. Tap "Back Up Now."

Step 3. Keep your iPhone on Wi-Fi during the process.

Option 2: Computer Backup (Highly Secure)

Mac or Windows computers are better for backing up passwords, health data, and app settings.

Finder backup steps (macOS Catalina or later):

Step 1. USB-connect your iPhone to your Mac.

Step 2. Enter your passcode or trust this computer if asked.

Step 3. Select your iPhone under "Locations" in Finder.

Step 4. Encrypt the local backup and password to save Health and Activity data.

Step 5. Click "Back Up Now" and wait.

Step 6. Check the "Last backup" box for the latest backup time.

2.2. Step 2: Sign Out of iCloud and Services

Log out of iCloud after backing up. Deleting the iPhone without signing out activates Activation Lock, making it worthless to the next owner.

The Golden Rule

Always log out before deleting. Uninstall Apple ID and iCloud from the device.

To sign out on the iPhone:

Step 1. Start the "Settings" app and tap your name at the top.

Step 2. Tap "Sign Out" below.

Step 3. Select "Erase this [Device]" or Sign Out, But Don't Erase.

Step 4. Confirm using your Apple ID password.

Step 5. Tap "Sign Out" again to conclude.

To Mac users:

Step 1. Navigate to "Apple menu > System Settings > [Your Name] > Sign Out."

Step 2. Check the boxes before signing out to keep iCloud data on your Mac.

Step 3. Signing out lets you safely wipe and transfer your device.

2.3. Step 3: Wipe Your iPhone 17 Completely

To make your iPhone look new again, wipe all your data after logging out.

Method A: Erase via Settings (If You Know the Passcode)

This method is the most frequent and simple.

Step 1. Go to "Settings> General > Transfer or Reset iPhone."

Step 2. Tap "Erase All Content and Settings."

Step 3. Confirm and input the passcode.

Method B: Erase via Computer (If You Forgot Passcode)

If you forget your passcode or the phone is locked:

Step 1. Connect the iPhone to the computer.

Step 2. Launch Finder, iTunes, or Apple Devices.

Step 3. Choose "iPhone" and click "Restore iphone."

Method C: Use Dr.Fone — Data Eraser (Recommended for Deep Clean)

Dr.Fone - Data Eraser is great for privacy and security before selling a used iPhone. To ensure safety, it permanently deletes all iPhone data beyond recovery. Professional tool Dr.Fone - Data Eraser erases all data.

Key Features:

• This feature permanently deletes all personal data, including photos, messages, phone logs, passwords, contacts, and more.
• Three-time data overwrites are performed following the U.S. DoD 5220.22-M standard for comprehensive security.
• IMEI, model, lock status, and more in data erasure and diagnostics.
• A verified erasure report increases buyer trust for older iPhones and Androids.
• Compatible with nearly all iPhones and Androids.
• Smart algorithms wipe quickly and safely.