What if you could turn them into Costco gift cards? Costco’s new trade-in program lets you swap your used electronics for gift cards, no Costco membership is required. Imagine using those old devices to get up to $1,080 in store credit. Let’s know more about it.
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How does Trade-In Program Works?
Costco’s trade-in program is managed by a third-party company called Phobio. Here’s how it works.
- Visit Costco’s Website: Click the link for the trade-in program on Costco’s site. It’ll take you to Phobio’s platform.
- Get a Quote: Choose your device’s model, answer some questions about its condition, and get a quote for how much it’s worth.
- Ship Your Device: You can either print a shipping label or get a box sent to you. Just make sure to erase all your data before sending it off.
- Receive Your Gift Card: If your device meets the criteria, you’ll get a Costco Shop Card. The amount you get depends on your device’s condition and market value.
In which devices I can trade?
Costco’s program currently accepts used Apple products, including.
- Phones
- Laptops
- Tablets
- Smartwatches
- Desktops
- Displays
- Media Players
For Mac or iMac models, they need to be from 2013 or newer. Even if your device isn’t in perfect shape, don’t worry. Older or slightly damaged items can still be valuable.
Samuel Davity from tufting.com says that even a broken screen or outdated model might fetch a decent amount. And Jonas Torrang from IsBrave.com agrees—older, well-maintained models can be surprisingly valuable.
How Much will You Get?
You can earn up to $1,080 for your used device, depending on its type and condition:
- Apple Laptops: Up to $1,080
- Desktops: Up to $1,025
- Smartphones: Up to $750
- Tablets: Up to $450
- Screens: Up to $400
- Smartwatches: Up to $200
- Media Players: Up to $40
However, the whole process can take a bit of time. It might take up to three weeks for Phobio to value your device and send you the gift card. Opting for a digital card can speed things up a bit.
Tips to Maximize Your Trade-In Value
Before sending your device, here are a few tips,
- Keep the Packaging: Keeping your device’s original packaging might help you get a better trade-in value.
- Monitor Trade-In Values: Trade-in values can change, especially when new models are about to launch. Waiting until just before a new version is released might get you a better deal.
- Consider the Convenience: While the trade-in value might not always be as high as selling directly to someone else, the convenience of getting a Costco gift card can be a big plus especially if you’re a regular Costco shopper.
So, if you’ve got old gadgets gathering dust, why not turn them into Costco credit? It’s a simple way to make some extra money and get yourself a nice treat at Costco.
FAQs
Do I need a Costco membership to use the trade-in program?
No, you don’t need a Costco membership to use the trade-in program.
How do I get a quote for my device?
Visit Costco’s website, follow the link to Phobio, select your device’s model, answer some questions, and get a quote.
What types of devices can I trade in?
You can trade in used Apple devices, including phones, laptops, tablets, smartwatches, desktops, displays, and media players.
How long does it take to receive my Costco gift card?
The process can take up to three weeks, but choosing a digital card might speed it up.
Can I still trade in a damaged or older device?
Yes, even older or slightly damaged devices can still have value.
How much can I earn from trading in my device?
You can earn up to $1,080 depending on the device type and condition.
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