iPhone Resale Checklist: How to Maximize Resale Value and Profit

Why iPhone Resale Value Matters

iPhone resellers and wholesalers aim to maximize returns on their iPhone inventory. The goal is to identify iPhones that retain the highest value and command strong resale prices. Popularity and profitability of iPhone models depend on specifications (storage, processing power), color, condition, and price.

The ideal combination of iPhone model, color, and condition leads to higher sales and profits. WeSellCellular has observed trends in iPhone resale that provide insights into these key decisions.

Step 1: Choose the Right iPhone Model for Resale

iPhones for the last several generations have come in a base model (the regular iPhone), a larger-screen-size model (the iPhone Plus), and two higher-spec Pro models (the Pro and Pro Max). In both markets, the standard iPhone remains the best-selling model.

CIRP data from primary market sales since 2022 indicate that the base model iPhone accounts for 45% of iPhone sales. The next most popular is the iPhone Pro Max at 25%, followed by the iPhone Pro at 20%, and the iPhone Plus at 10%. This data can be taken as an approximate guide to model stocking for the secondary market.

Apart from the model, the price and condition are the principal factors influencing purchasing decisions. The most popular iPhones are those in the best shape, with the fewest blemishes and defects. In the highest grading tiers, competitively priced iPhones sell the quickest.

Step 2: Understand Market Timing for Maximum Resale Value

The timing of new iPhone releases drives the iPhone resale market. Predictably, the release of new iPhones in September pushes down prices for the previous generation by 15% to 20%. From June to September each year, used iPhone prices rise as the inventory of older models decreases. From September to December, the market sees a surge in used iPhones as consumers trade in devices to upgrade.

Step 3: Prioritize Condition and Grading

Accurate grading can make the difference between profitability and losses for resellers. Devices must meet the stated condition level, whether buying or selling.

Building long-term relationships with trusted wholesalers and distributors is key to consistent grading in the iPhone resale market. When business partners accurately represent inventory quality, purchasing becomes easier and less risky.

Buyers in the Apple iPhone resale market will spend the most on devices in the best condition. Top grades typically generate the most revenue; however, profit depends on the difference between the cost of acquisition and the final sale price. Like-new iPhones cost more to acquire, so profit may not necessarily be higher on those models. Middle-tier grades may offer higher profits, depending on the acquisition costs and customer demand. Testing the market with various specs, colors, and grades can help identify where demand is the strongest.

Step 4: Know the Best iPhone Colors for Resale

iPhones are available in a variety of colors, but some consistently perform better in resale. Black/midnight is the top-selling color across models and generations, making it the best iPhone color for resale​. Blue ranks second, followed by purple in third. New colors introduced with each iPhone generation often experience a surge in popularity, but these core shades tend to be the most consistent.

Step 5: Use Trusted Wholesale or Resale Platforms

Consistent and precise grading ensures that phones match their online descriptions, providing a key advantage in the resale process. Just as sourcing quality products is important, selecting a solid selling platform is equally crucial.

Whether operating a fully branded online storefront or selling on a major marketplace, both options come with their own set of benefits and challenges.

	Pros	Cons
An E-Commerce Site Under Your Brand	Own the customer relationship and cultivate loyalty High brand visibility No marketplace transaction fees	You must drive traffic to the site Limited exposure to marketplace customers Requires ongoing technical maintenance Selling on Major Online Marketplace
Selling on Major Online Marketplaces	Minimal setup costs, easy to get started Built-in customer base provided by the marketplace Marketplace handles technical infrastructure like payments	Highly competitive, leading to downward pressure on pricing Limited branding visibility Reduced customer loyalty

iPhone Resale Best Practices

The key to building a successful iPhone resale business involves five essential steps: selecting the right mix of models, timing purchases and sales effectively, understanding grading nuances, focusing on popular colors, and establishing reliable partnerships with suppliers and customers. By consistently applying these strategies, resellers can create a solid foundation for long-term success and growth in the market.