Amazon is now offering customers the opportunity to exchange their used electronic devices for a gift card.
The Trade-In system means that people can recycle old smartphones and video game consoles on the platform, and is part of the online giant’s plan to be more environmentally friendly.
In addition to Amazon devices like Fire Sticks, Echo speakers, and Kindle tablets, other redeemable items include home security devices and a range of smartphones and game consoles.
The new service will also compete with other websites that already offer commercial ratings such as Music Magpie and CeX.
Amazon Trade-in will offer customers gift certificates in exchange for electronic items
However, these stores will offer cash back for merchandise instead of coupons.
This Money takes a look at Trade-In, and reveals how it works, how much you can earn, and how it compares to other trading sites.
How do customers trade items?
According to Amazon, there are only three steps customers must follow to trade their goods:
1. Select the device you want to exchange and answer six questions about its condition
2. Print a shipping label and ship your device for free within 21 days
3. Once you submit your device and receive your review, an Amazon.co.uk Gift Card will be credited to your account
When answering device condition questions, customers can decide what to do if Amazon needs to change the replacement value, for example if Amazon determines that the condition is not in line with the information provided.
Customers can then choose to accept a different amount or not accept the variable value and take back the device at no additional cost.
Trade-in is available on both mobile and desktop devices.
Appliances accepted for exchange are tested and evaluated to determine their condition and the device will be resold or recycled.
The site said that items returned to Amazon can be recycled or refurbished in an effort to be greener
Why is Amazon offering this now?
Amazon says the program is one way it is working to reduce its environmental impact.
It wants to increase the number of recycled or refurbished devices, making it more convenient for customers to buy new ones.
It’s part of Amazon Second Chance where customers can find ways to exchange, recycle, or return Amazon products, as well as purchase used and refurbished items.
How does it compare to other commerce sites?
That’s money compared to what customers can get for their electrical items on Amazon Trade-In compared to competitors CeX and Music Magpie.
NS iPhone 8 (64 GB) In near perfect condition, Amazon Trade-In offered up to £110.
He asked if the phone was on and fully functional, if the phone’s screen or body was cracked or damaged, and if it had been removed from the owner’s online account.
Music Magpie has also offered £110 for the same phone.
However, at CeX, the same phone model can be sold, under the same conditions, for £150 in cash or £207 if customers opt for a CeX voucher.
This gives customers a lot of money if they choose to trade away from Amazon.
Meanwhile, a Echo Dot (3rd generation) Its owner can only earn £5 on Amazon, but the speaker can fetch up to £11 in cash or £16 off a CeX voucher online.
Music Magpie didn’t have Echo speakers for sale.
NS Ring Video Doorbell 2 (Silver), Amazon offered a £30 gift card while, again, CeX was willing to pay more: £46 cash or £56 for a voucher.
Music Magpie did not sell these devices.
One of the most popular game consoles, which is Nintendo SwitchThey can be exchanged on Amazon for £65, if in perfect condition.
At CeX, customers can sell for £94 in cash or £133 for an in-store voucher.
Music Magpie customers can also sell their devices for £135.
Overall, Amazon Trade-In doesn’t seem to offer the best deal for a range of products — including its own hardware.
Therefore, customers looking to sell or trade their vintage products should compare how much they can earn on different sites, as well as how fast and convenient the process is, before committing and sending their products.
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