Buying Policy · Transparent Grading

Condition & Grading Standards

Our cash offers are based on a clear, consistent condition grade. This page defines exactly what Brand New, Like New, Good, Fair, and For Parts mean for phones, Macs, cameras, lenses, and drones — so there are no surprises between your locked photo quote and the final price at the meetup.

Last updated: October 16, 2026

1How We Grade Your Device

Every device is graded on a five-tier scale that weighs cosmetic condition, functional condition, and included accessories. We inspect in person at the Shrewsbury meetup and confirm the final grade before payment.

Honest photos up front = your locked quote honored at the meetup. The clearest, most accurate photos get the most accurate offers. See the Estimator to get started.

2Brand New / Sealed

Tier 1 · Highest Offer

Factory-sealed, never activated

  • Original factory seal intact, box undamaged.
  • Never turned on, never set up, no accounts signed in.
  • All original accessories and documentation present.
  • Top of the market for that model — best possible payout.

3Like New (Mint)

Tier 2 · Near-max Offer

Used but looks new

  • No scratches, dents, or screen imperfections visible to the naked eye.
  • Battery health near new (iPhone 90%+, Mac cycle count low).
  • Fully functional with no defects or repairs.
  • Original box and charger preferred but not required.

4Good (Gently Used)

Tier 3 · Strong Offer

Light daily wear, fully working

  • Minor scratches or light scuffs on the body, screen free of cracks.
  • Battery health moderate (typical for a year or two of use).
  • All features work — cameras, charging, speakers, buttons.
  • The most common grade — still a solid, fair offer.

5Fair (Worn)

Tier 4 · Reduced Offer

Visible wear or age

  • Noticeable scratches, dings, or worn corners; possibly a small non-critical defect.
  • Lower battery health or older model.
  • Fully functional despite cosmetic wear.
  • We still buy it — the offer reflects the condition.

6For Parts / Damaged

Tier 5 · Parts Offer

Cracked, broken, or non-functional

  • Cracked screen, broken glass, water damage, or won't power on.
  • May still have value for parts, boards, or components.
  • Offer is significantly lower and based on recoverable value.
  • Tell us the full damage up front for the most honest parts quote.
A damaged or swollen lithium battery doesn't automatically kill the sale, but safety comes first — see our Lithium Battery Safety page before bringing a damaged device.

7Factors That Move Your Price

Up

  • Complete original box, charger, and unused accessories.
  • High remaining battery health and low charge cycle count.
  • Higher storage capacity and the newest generation of the model.
  • Unlocked and fully paid off — no carrier or financing lock.

Down

  • Cracked glass, dents, bends, or liquid exposure.
  • Activation lock or account still tied to the device.
  • Financed/leased device still under carrier lock or installment plan.
  • Missing charger, box, or battery that affects usability.

8Grading at the Meetup

We inspect the device in front of you, confirm the grade against the photos you submitted, and state the final price before any money changes hands. If the in-person condition matches your submission, your locked quote holds. If not, we'll show you exactly what changed and offer a revised, fair price — you're never obligated to accept.

9Locked Photo Quote vs. Final Offer

A locked photo quote is our commitment based on the photos and description you submit. The final offer is confirmed after physical inspection. They match when the device's actual condition matches what you showed us. Material differences (a crack not visible in photos, a lower battery health, an active lock) can revise the price — but you always see the final number before agreeing to the sale.

See our Terms & Conditions for the full offer and pricing terms.

10Contact Us

Want a grade estimate before the meetup, or not sure which tier your device falls into? Send clear photos through the Estimator or call us at 508-571-0410 or email us at hello@eliteonlineservice.com, Monday through Sunday, 8am–8pm.