How to Prepare Your Phone for Sale (Including Unlocking)

Published on: June 17, 2025

Selling your old phone is a great way to recoup some cash for your next upgrade. But before you hand it over to a new owner, it's crucial to prepare it properly. This not only protects your personal data but also ensures a smooth transaction and a happy buyer. Here's a comprehensive checklist, including the important step of unlocking.

1. Back Up Your Data

This is the most important step! You don't want to lose your photos, contacts, messages, and app data.

• iPhones: Use iCloud Backup (Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup) or back up to your computer using iTunes/Finder.
• Android Phones: Use Google One backup (Settings > Google > Backup) or your manufacturer's backup solution (e.g., Samsung Smart Switch). You can also transfer files to a computer via USB.

2. Remove Your Accounts and Disable Security Locks

This prevents the buyer from being locked out by iCloud Activation Lock or Google FRP Lock.

• iPhones:
  1. If you have an Apple Watch paired, unpair it.
  2. Sign out of iCloud and the iTunes & App Store: Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Sign Out. Enter your Apple ID password to turn off Find My iPhone and remove Activation Lock.
• Android Phones:
  1. Remove your Google Account: Go to Settings > Accounts (or Users & accounts) > select your Google account > Remove account. This is crucial to disable FRP.
  2. Remove any other accounts (Samsung, manufacturer-specific accounts).
  3. Remove screen locks (PIN, pattern, password, fingerprint, face ID).

Why is this critical? Failing to remove these accounts will leave the phone activation locked, making it unusable for the buyer and likely leading to a return or dispute. We've previously written about preparing your Android phone and removing FRP specifically.

3. Perform a Carrier Unlock (Highly Recommended)

An unlocked phone is more attractive to buyers and can command a higher price. It allows the new owner to use the phone with any compatible carrier.

• Check if your phone is locked: You can usually do this by inserting a SIM card from a different carrier. If it works, your phone is unlocked.
• Contact your carrier: If your phone is eligible (e.g., contract fulfilled, device paid off), your carrier should unlock it for you. Policies vary, so check their website.
• Use a Third-Party Unlocking Service: If your carrier won't unlock it, or if you bought it used and locked, a reputable IMEI unlocking service like Easy Unlock can help. We offer unlocking for most carriers and models.

Clearly state in your sale listing whether the phone is carrier locked or unlocked.

4. Factory Reset the Device

After backing up and removing accounts, erase all your personal data from the phone.

• iPhones: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
• Android Phones: Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset). The exact path may vary slightly by manufacturer.

Once the reset is complete, the phone should boot up to the initial setup screen, just like a new device.

5. Remove SIM Card and Memory Card

Don't forget to take out your SIM card! Also, if your phone has a microSD card slot, remove your memory card unless you intend to include it in the sale (make sure it's wiped too if so).

6. Clean the Phone Physically

A clean phone makes a better impression. Wipe down the screen and body with a microfiber cloth. Use a small amount of isopropyl alcohol on the cloth if needed for tougher grime, but avoid getting moisture into ports.

7. Gather Accessories

Include the original box, charger, cable, and any other accessories if you still have them. This can add value to your sale.

8. Take Good Photos for Your Listing

If selling online, take clear, well-lit photos of the phone from all angles, highlighting its condition. Be honest about any scratches or cosmetic imperfections.

By following these steps, you can ensure a secure and successful sale, protecting your data and providing the buyer with a ready-to-use device. If you need assistance with carrier unlocking or checking the status of your device before selling, Easy Unlock offers reliable and professional services.