The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning customers to consider both pro’s and con’s before selling their used technology in a buy back program.
Many programs allow consumer to trade in gadgets like cell phones, laptops, TVs, MP3 players, and more in exchange for a new product and/or cash.
However, the BBB wants consumers to make sure they’re getting the fair trade. Here’s some tips they offer before you decide to turn in the old for the new:
Buy-back programs can provide a sense of insurance on your product. Buy-back programs essentially guarantee a resale value, meaning they act as insurance against loss of value. But like any insurance policy, its true value can become nominal and hard to define. Before becoming a member of a buy-back program, make sure to read the fine print. Many buy-back options have conditions and constraints that could ultimately keep you from being able to sell back your used gadget.
Remember that the interest of the retailer is usually at heart. In exchange for your old gadget, your return will come back in the form of a gift card more times than not .The plan and gift card mean you are locked into using the issuing retailer for your next technology purchase. Not to mention, that you may end up paying triple the sales tax when all exchanges are said and done. While sales tax rules vary from state to state and buy-back programs vary from program to program, you are the one responsible for paying the tax. By paying the tax once when you buy the gadget and again when you return it, and then again when you use the gift card, you could end up paying triple the tax in the end.
Gadget-buy backs are not ideal for the forgetful or the disorganized. If you haven’t saved your original receipts, power cords and manuals, you could be at a loss or your payout could be less than expected. Most buy-back programs insist that the original items be brought back to the store at the time of the exchange.
Mobile phone contracts are not covered. When you purchase a new phone and add the retailer’s buy-back program, you can resell your phone back to the retailer for the agreed upon dollar amount. But, keep in mind that even when you sell your phone back to the retailer, your cell phone provider will keep billing you for the duration of your contract.
You can compromise your identity. Before selling your electronics back to the retailer take care of your personal data. Many electronic items such as your smartphone or laptop can hold a ton of personal information. If this information gets into the wrong hands, your identity could be compromised. Be sure to fully wipe out all personal data.
You could get more for your electronic gadgets elsewhere. Reselling electronics is not new. Many consumers use sites like eBay and Craigslist to sell their gadgets. In most instances you could get more for your electronics by using these sites than opting for a retailer’s buy-back program.
For more consumer tips, visit the BBB website by clicking here.
We want to hear your Buy Back stories:
Have you tried a Buy Back program? If so, did it work well for you, it not why not?
