If you’ve been thinking, “I want to sell my iPhone 16 Plus but I don’t know where to start,” you’re not alone. The iPhone 16 Plus is Apple’s latest large-screen powerhouse, but with the arrival of the next upgrade or a shift in personal needs, many people are exploring trade-in or resale options.
Selling your iPhone the right way means more than just finding a buyer — it’s about knowing your device’s worth, choosing the right platform, and understanding the trade-offs between convenience and profit.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to get the most value for your iPhone 16 Plus, whether you trade it in with Apple, sell it to a third-party buyer, or list it yourself.
Step 1: Figure Out Your iPhone 16 Plus Value
Before you start packing your phone for shipment, you need a baseline idea of its market price. Several factors influence this:
- Condition – Is the screen flawless? Are there any scratches, cracks, or battery issues?
- Storage Size – Higher storage (256GB, 512GB) usually fetches better prices.
- Carrier Lock Status – Unlocked devices typically sell for more than those tied to a carrier.
- Accessories & Packaging – Having the original box, charger, and cable can sometimes add to resale appeal.
As of now, trade-in and resale values for an iPhone 16 Plus range from $500 to over $800 depending on where and how you sell it.
Step 2: Decide Where to Sell
There are three main routes to consider when you decide, “I’m ready to sell my iPhone 16 Plus.”
1. Apple Trade In – The Hassle-Free Option
Apple’s Trade-In program is the easiest and safest way to exchange your phone. Here’s how it works:
- Visit Apple’s website or store and select your iPhone model.
- Answer a few questions about its condition.
- Get a trade-in estimate.
- Send it in via free shipping or bring it in-store for instant credit toward a purchase.
Pros: Quick, secure, and integrated with Apple purchases.
Cons: You may not get the highest cash value.
2. Third-Party Trade-In Sites – The Balance Between Convenience & Payout
Websites like Swappa, BankMyCell, and SellCell allow you to sell your iPhone directly or compare trade-in offers from multiple buyers.
- Swappa – Direct-to-buyer sales, usually higher than Apple’s offer.
- BankMyCell – Compares multiple vendors in real time for top pricing.
- SellCell – Aggregates 40+ buyers to maximize your return.
Pros: Higher payouts than Apple.
Cons: Requires shipping and sometimes more effort.
3. Selling Privately – Maximum Profit Potential
Platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and eBay can give you the most money if you’re willing to handle buyer communication and payment security yourself.
Pros: Highest possible sale price.
Cons: Time-consuming, risk of scams, requires meeting strangers or shipping.
Step 3: Prepare Your iPhone for Sale
Whether you’re trading in or selling directly, prepping your phone can increase its value and ensure your data is safe.
- Backup Your Data – Use iCloud or your computer.
- Sign Out of Apple ID – Go to Settings → [Your Name] → Sign Out.
- Erase All Content & Settings – Restore to factory defaults.
- Clean It Up – Wipe the screen and casing for presentation.
Step 4: Compare Offers
Here’s a sample comparison for an Unlocked iPhone 16 Plus, 256GB, in excellent condition:
| Selling Option | Estimated Value | Time to Get Paid | Effort Level |
| Apple Trade-In | $620 | Instant (in-store) or 5–7 days | Low |
| BankMyCell | $720 | 3–5 days | Medium |
| Swappa (Private Sale) | $800+ | When sold | High |
Tip: Always compare offers before making a decision. Prices can vary by hundreds of dollars.
Step 5: Complete the Sale Safely
If selling privately:
- Meet in a public place or use a safe exchange zone (often available at police stations).
- Accept secure payment methods like cash in hand or trusted digital transfers.
- Avoid sharing personal details beyond what’s necessary.
Conclusion
Selling your iPhone 16 Plus doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you choose the convenience of Apple Trade-In, the balanced approach of third-party trade-in platforms, or the potentially higher profit of a private sale, the key is preparation and comparison.
The next time you think, “It’s time to sell my iPhone 16 Plus,” follow these steps to ensure you get the maximum return with minimal hassle.
FAQs
How much can I get if I sell my iPhone 16 Plus?
Depending on the storage, condition, and where you sell, you could get anywhere from $500 to $850 or more. Private sales usually bring in higher amounts than trade-in programs.
Can I sell my iPhone 16 Plus if it’s locked to a carrier?
Yes, but you’ll likely get less money compared to an unlocked model. If possible, request an unlock from your carrier before selling.
What’s the fastest way to sell my iPhone 16 Plus?
Apple Trade In and certain third-party vendors like Decluttr or BankMyCell offer quick processing — sometimes paying within a few days.
Do I need the original box to sell my iPhone 16 Plus?
Not necessarily. Most buyers focus on the phone’s condition. Still, having the box and charger can make your listing more appealing, especially in private sales.
Is it safe to sell my iPhone 16 Plus online?
Yes, if you use trusted platforms and follow safety steps: factory reset your device, remove your Apple ID, and avoid sharing unnecessary personal info.
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