PHONES GUIDE
Where to sell broken phones: check the fault, data and handover
A broken phone may still suit a paid purchase, repair or parts use, but the model and fault decide what is possible. Start with a clear description and a safe handover plan.
Write down the fault instead of guessing a repair
Record the exact phone model, storage capacity and any known repairs. Describe the symptoms: a cracked screen that still responds, a display with no image, a charging problem, liquid exposure or a handset that will not turn on. Say when the problem started and whether it happens every time.
Clear photographs of the screen, rear and damaged areas help an enquiry. Do not buy parts just to make a phone seem easier to sell without first understanding the repair cost and likely sale outcome. An honest account of what you know, including untested functions, is more useful than an uncertain diagnosis.
Check which buyers accept your particular fault
Consider a specialist buyer that assesses faulty devices, a repair business willing to buy your model or a private buyer who understands its condition. Each route has its own acceptance rules. A business that buys working phones does not necessarily buy every damaged handset.
Ask whether the stated amount is conditional on inspection, what happens if the fault differs and who arranges transport. Compare offers using the same device description and included accessories. Keep the written conversation and do not send a parcel until the recipient has agreed to consider it.
Make a separate plan for your personal information
If the phone still works, check that your important photos, messages and account access are backed up before preparing it for sale. Use Apple's sale preparation instructions or Google's old-device reset guidance for your device. Remove SIM and personal memory cards where fitted.
A phone that will not start cannot be assumed to have been erased. Tell the proposed buyer what preparation you can and cannot complete, including any remaining account lock. If you need to recover important information, resolve that before a sale. Never include an account password or recovery code in an enquiry or parcel.
Report battery damage before considering transport
Do not ship a phone with a swollen or damaged battery. The Post Office's Royal Mail restrictions prohibit damaged or defective lithium batteries, including those installed in devices. A buyer's willingness to assess a broken screen does not make every damaged phone suitable for the post.
Describe battery damage to an appropriate local receiving organisation and agree suitable handling. Do not open the phone or try to remove an internal battery yourself. Use the electrical recycling locator to find a possible local route and check its acceptance arrangements first.
Request an EXE assessment and keep recycling as an option
EXE considers some faulty phones, with acceptance and any offer reviewed manually. Send the model, fault description and relevant photographs through the free, no-obligation enquiry. Payment for an agreed purchase follows inspection and agreement, by bank transfer.
Redhill visits are by appointment and UK post-in needs agreement. Collection is considered only for eligible higher-value items or suitable batches and must be confirmed. If the phone cannot support a paid offer, responsible electrical recycling may be the appropriate outcome; there is no automatic cash payment for every broken phone.
Sources and further guidance
Follow the official instructions for your own device and software version.
www.exe.co.uk — www.exe.co.uk — contactwww.exe.co.uk — recyclesupport.apple.com — 109511support.google.com — 17299872www.postoffice.co.uk — what can i sendrecycleyourelectricals.org.uk —Tell us what you have.
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