iPhone owners selling older models for discounts on newer devices help drive profits for companies that refurbish devices and resell them as “like new.” A major business publication notes this trend, highlighting the growing importance of the used-phone market in North America and beyond. (WSJ).
“Your dusty old iPhone is part of a $64.5 billion used phone market, and the business is booming,” the article states, underscoring how the secondary market reshapes consumer electronics. In North America, collectors and everyday buyers alike fuel demand for devices that have been cleaned, tested, and restored to full functionality.
The report explains that during refurbishment, devices are stored in secure facilities. In the example cited, the storage was located in New Jersey, reflecting how regional hubs play a role in the logistics of reconditioning and redistributing devices across markets in the United States and Canada.
In practice, two clear paths emerge for these iPhones after refurbishment. Some units are boxed and sent out as used devices, often finding buyers in regions where customers are more price-sensitive or less prepared to purchase brand-new models. This channel helps meet demand in price-conscious markets while keeping supply steady for retailers and wholesalers in North America and overseas.
The second path involves saving iPhones to a high standard of condition and then selling them as “like new” through official marketplaces or established retail networks. These units undergo rigorous testing and certification to ensure functionality and cosmetic appeal before they are offered at a premium relative to typical used devices.
As the process unfolds, examples illustrate the economics: after thorough restoration, an iPhone 11 initially priced around $200 can fetch as much as $350 in resale markets. The refurbishment workflow includes deleting prior data, verifying display, speakers, and buttons, and capturing photographic evidence of the device’s condition. Such steps help sellers and buyers alike feel confident in the quality and safety of the product. (WSJ).
Experts emphasize careful packaging once refurbishment concludes, ensuring devices withstand the rigors of transportation and handling. Proper packing helps reduce damage risk and supports efficient distribution to retailers, wholesalers, and international buyers who value restored devices within North American supply chains.
Beyond market mechanics, industry observers note that warranty terms for Apple devices vary by region and retailer. In some jurisdictions, warranties on refurbished devices have become more flexible, while in others, customers may encounter shorter coverage windows or different service options. For consumers in Canada and the United States, understanding regional warranty policies is crucial when considering refurbished iPhones and the potential total cost of ownership across the product lifecycle. (Attribution: WSJ).