Have questions about Trading in your Cell Phone? Here are our most frequently asked questions.

Q: Why do I have to fill out a form when other sites have automated systems?

A: In order to pay out the maximum dollar amount for your cell phone, we use several price factors to determine each phones actual value. In some cases - we pay more than our competition. In almost all instances - we pay out more than anyone else out there. An automated system can not determine these factors and a real human will actually respond to you with a "real" price quote. If you receive a higher price quote elsewhere - let us know the source and we will most likely meet or beat the quote you receive.

Q: What types of cell phone equipment and other electronics does The Blue Dot buy?

A: We buy mostly all Cell Phones, including PDAs, BlackBerrys and AirCards. We take all makes and models from any Cellular Phone Carrier - (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Sprint and more).

In addition to cell phones we also consider MP3 Players, Game Consoles, Digital Cameras, GPS Units, TVs, and Laptops at this time. Mostly all major consumer electronics will be considered for trade-in value.

 

Q: How much is my wireless equipment worth?

A: The value of your equipment is calculated on many factors including age, condition, features and market demand for each particular make/model. The Blue Dot will Resell, Refurbish, or Recycle your device. We pay anywhere between $1 to over $300.00 for each mobile device and for some electronics we have paid much more. Pricing changes on a weekly basis so submit your price quote right away to receive the highest value price quotes.

Q: How can I ensure I receive full value for the phones I have sent in?

A: To ensure full value, the device must only meet the following criteria:

1. Powers up successfully
2. Has a good LCD / screen
3. Completes a test call successfully
4. No signs of water damage
5. Comes with noted accessories
6. Cosmetic condition stated on form is met
7. No cracked housing
8. Any IT Policy on equipment must be removed
9. 100% of Operating System must be in place

The price quote we provide is guaranteed for 3 days from the time you recieve it. If the equipment does not meet the above listed criteria, we may still pay out on your used wireless equipment. The equipment would be classified as D-stock and the value would be 75% of the listed price guide value.

Q: How can I send my wireless devices to you?

A: It couldn’t be easier. Simply box up your equipment for shipping and we’ll do the rest. We provide you a pre-paid postage label through USPS. Simply place the phone in any postal box nationwide.

Q: How is my wireless service plan affected?

A: Before sending any wireless device to The Blue Dot, clients agree to disconnect the service on that device. We are not responsible and will not be liable for any and all airtime charges or any other charges accrued prior to, during, or after processing by The Blue Dot technicians. The original owner and wireless carrier/service provider are responsible for resolving payment issues regarding any and all carrier-based service charges.

Q: What if my wireless devices are broken or too old to activate?

A: Devices that are not working or unable to be activated in today’s networks will be considered “non payable” by our inspection department. We will gladly return any such device to you (upon request) at your expense.

As a courtesy to our customers, The Blue Dot will store any non-payable devices for 5 days after the devides are tested, after which they will be recycled and cannot be replaced or returned. The shipment of your devices confirms your acceptance of our price and condition offer. Devices deemed “old technology” may include working phones that are not allowed to reactivated by cellular service providers.

Q: Do you pay for used wireless accessories?

A: No - unfortunately, used ceullular accessories do not have a trade-in value at this time. As a convenience to our customers, however, any accessories that cannot be used again may be included in your shipment to us and we will recycle them at no cost to you.

Q: When will I receive payment for my used devices?

A: We send your payment by check within 15 business days upon receipt of your shipment.

Q: What happens with the used equipment?

A: The Blue Dot Certified Technicians test and recondition the devices for reuse in the United States and other countries. If the equipment is not acceptable due to condition or technological reasons, we will recycle it.

Q: How can I identify my wireless model?

A: If not indicated on the front of the device, most model numbers are printed on the back of the device, underneath the battery. The numbers towards the top of the sticker on the back of the phone generally indicate the phones model. You can also call your cell phone provider and have them walk you through finding this information.

Q: What if we have too many devices to identify individually?

A: That’s easy – simply email The Blue Dot at and we will send UPS to pick up your wireless devices at no charge to you. Our Certified Wireless Technicians will identify the make and model of each device for no charge. You will then receive a complete and accurate list with the amount we will pay for each device.

Q: If a wireless device has never been used, is it worth more?

A: Yes - New, unused devices typically have the highest market value. Be sure note on The Blue Dot price quote form - "New" before the "Make" of the device so a more accurate quote can be made. To be considered “New in the box” quality, the device must include all original unopened accessories, software, battery and user’s manual. The device must still have the protective lens tape on it with zero signs of wear and no call time on the timer. The box itself needs to be in “like new” condition with no major dents, tears or writing on it.

Q: Do you activate or renew wireless service?

A: No. The Blue Dot is only in business to buy previously used and outdated equipment. Our customers are then free to purchase new devices and/or data products from the wireless carrier of their choice.

Q: What happens to personal information and stored data on devices?

A: For your convenience and safety, The Blue Dot technicians can guide you through the relatively simple "master delete process" to ensure that your personal information is not shared with the next owner of your used devices. We also recommend that you remove the SIM card (if applicable) and shred it to ensure deletion of information. While we do our best to delete all personal information from a device, The Blue Dot does not guarantee that devices donated or purchased will have their information removed (including phonebook information, personal codes, e-mails, addresses, instant messages, photos and downloaded files) from the memory before being resold.

Back to the Cell Phone Trade-In Form.