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ZDNET key takeaways
- Trade old tech for gift cards and get a discount on new devices.
- Shipping is free with a prepaid UPS label from Amazon.
- Credit usually arrives within 10 to 14 days after your trade-in.
Amazon is gearing up for its Black Friday sale (only a few weeks away!), and if you still have a ton of holiday shopping left to do (like me), this tech tip can help make your purchases a bit more affordable.
Say it with me: Amazon gift cards. Normally, you'd have to buy these, but if you trade in old, dust-collecting electronics that you no longer use through Amazon's Trade-In Program, the company will reward you with gift card credit and even discounts (like up to 20% off a new device). That's free spending money for you, and less e-waste for Mother Nature.
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Your old gadgets aren't gaining value sitting in a drawer, especially with new models launching constantly. While other trade-in services might offer higher payouts or support more brands, Amazon's program is worth considering because of its easy shipping process, extra discounts and rebates, and gift card credits applied straight to your account.
How to use Amazon's Trade-In Program
What you'll need: Old tech you want to trade and an Amazon account.
Go to Amazon's Trade-In portal. From there, you can choose from Amazon's own device categories (like Kindle e-readers, Fire tablets, Fire TV streaming devices, and Echo speakers), or you can select one of the categories that accept eligible electronics from other brands, such as Cell Phones and Video Game Systems.
Opening a category page will show you a search bar and a list of products associated with your Amazon account (if any). Select the items you'd like to trade in. Each product will display an estimated trade-in value, and if it's an Amazon device, you might see an extra discount or rebate offer listed as well.
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For example, right now, Amazon is offering an additional 20% off eligible Kindles, Echos, Fire TV Sticks, Ring and Blink devices, Fire tablets, and Eero routers.
After selecting your device, Amazon will ask a few qualifying questions about its condition to provide an accurate appraisal. It may ask whether the device powers on and holds a charge, if all accessories are included, and whether there are any cracks or defects. You'll also need to confirm the overall condition of the device.
Be as honest and accurate as possible, because Amazon's inspectors will verify your answers. If the condition doesn't match your description, Amazon will adjust the trade-in offer.
Once you've answered everything and clicked the appraisal button, you'll receive an offer to review and accept.
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When I tried this process with an old Fire TV Cube, Amazon offered me a $3 gift card and a 20% trade-in rebate toward my next Fire Tablet purchase. The offer applies if I send in the device by Jan. 18, 2026, and Amazon verifies its condition. I was also offered $20 for an Amazon Fire Kids Tablet, plus another 20% rebate.
Once you've accepted an offer, Amazon will generate a prepaid UPS shipping label for you. It should go directly to the email associated with your Amazon account. Shipping is free -- just print the label and slap it on your box (I usually reuse an old Amazon box for this). You'll have up to 45 days to send your device.
You can drop off the package at any UPS store and be sure to get a receipt for tracking. In many areas, you may also be able to drop off trade-in items at certain Amazon-affiliated locations (like select Whole Foods or Amazon Hub counters) if that's more convenient. Just make sure you use the provided label.
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Tip: Before trading in a phone, tablet, or any device with personal data, back it up, factory reset it, and sign out of all accounts. Also, take photos of its condition for proof in case of shipping issues or inspection discrepancies.
Now comes the easy part: sit back and let Amazon handle the rest.
Once your package arrives, Amazon says it usually takes about 14 days or less to evaluate your items and issue the credit. The trade-in value will be added to your account as an Amazon gift card, and any rebate (like 20% off a new device) will automatically apply at checkout for your next purchase.
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The email containing your shipping label also includes links to track your trade-in progress and shop for new devices eligible for your rebate.
According to Amazon, you should "allow up to 14 days for device condition verification once your device is shipped," though trade-in credit is typically issued within 10 days after your items arrive at the sorting facility.
Amazon may adjust trade-in rates over time, especially if newer models are released, so it's best to start the process as soon as you're happy with the quoted credit.
Amazon's Trade-In Program accepts items that range from non-functional to good condition. Depending on how damaged or pristine the electronic is, you'll receive less or more credit in return.
You have 45 days after the prepaid shipping label is provided to ship your device or devices.
Your best bet is to drop off the shipment at a local UPS store as soon as possible and ask for a drop-off receipt to confirm its delivery. Trade-ins can also be dropped off at some Hub Lockers and Whole Foods stores.
The answer depends on what you're looking to get out of the trade-in. If you just want to get rid of your electronics and not have to worry about buying shipping labels or paying listing fees, and you're interested in extra discounts on a new purchase, then yes, Amazon's program is a good deal.
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If you're hoping for the highest return value, resale platforms like eBay and Swappa might be better. Just remember, while you could sell your tech for more money, you'll have to cover the service and shipping fees.
Possibly. You can try to cancel your order by going to Your Trade-In Account and select "Cancel Order" under the trade-in order number. But if you change your mind after Amazon receives your device, cancelling isn't possible.
You can find an Amazon gift card balance by logging in to your account on the website or app and heading to the "Gift Cards" or "Manage gift card balance" section. Or you can just go directly to this link.
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