Amazon Trade-In FAQ 5.0

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handsomepete

handsomepete

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Welcome to the Official CAG Amazon.com Trade-In Thread

THIS IS NOT A FLIPPING THREAD. USEFUL CREDIT TRANSFER OPPORTUNITIES WELCOME, BUT KEEP THE PROFIT MARGIN TALK / SNEAKY OR LYING SHENANIGANS OUT

Hey trade-in pals! SENDING THINGS IN DISC / CARTRIDGE ONLY / GENERIC CASE NO MANUAL / ANYTHING BUT COMPLETE COULD RESULT IN REJECTION. THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS TO THIS. YOU MIGHT GET ACCEPTED, YOU MIGHT NOT. NO ONE KNOWS. IF YOU CUT OUT A UPC OR DO ANYTHING TO TRICK THE FINE(?) FOLKS AT AFS EXPECT IT TO BE OPENED AND REJECTED. THERE ARE NO HARD AND FAST RULES. IF IT IS ACCEPTED, IT WILL ALMOST CERTAINLY ONLY BE CONSIDERED "ACCEPTABLE." RISK YOUR TIME AND EFFORT AT YOUR PERIL!

I'm getting an acceptance rate of about one per day; it makes me think some supervisor is standing around with a glass of absinthe next to a couple of dumptruck loads of games...while the one responsible for the glitch is made to scan each item and recite its TIV with tears in their eyes. - Indigo_Streetlight
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Amazon.com Trade-in Home Page

------- FAQ BELOW - LEAVE ME ALONE PLEASE -------
Useful links:

-- BlueLobstah

-- CheapAssGamer

THANKS TO DISILLUSION386 and GI60 FOR POSTING AND MAINTAINING THE PREVIOUS AMAZON TRADE-IN FAQ THREADS

This thread’s primary purpose is to discuss Amazon.com’s video game trade-in program. Conspiracy theories about AFS smashing games before sending them back / stealing children / sneezing and touching public door handles / etc welcome, but try to avoid going nutso. PLEASE READ THE TRADE-IN DEAL DETAILS AND FAQ BEFORE ASKING ANY QUESTIONS.
Trade-In Procedure

1. SELECT ITEMS: Search for items to trade in. Your trade-in items must meet the product eligibility criteria.
2. SHIP GAMES FREE: Print a shipping label and packing slip, package your games, and ship them
3. GET A GIFT CARD: An Amazon.com Gift Card will be deposited into your account upon receipt of games

Shipping Instructions

1. Print this entire page. (Packing slip and shipping label once you have submitted a trade)
2. Cut out the shipping label and the packing slip.
3. Make sure your items are in good working condition and include the case and cover art.
4. Securely pack the items in a box or envelope and include the packing slip in the package.
5. Attach the shipping label squarely onto the outside of the package and add your return address.
6. Take it to your nearest UPS Store and mail it by (one week from submission of trade)
7. Or you can ship to:
note to self: look up new address
Trade-In Product Eligibility

Trade-in items must match the exact version displayed in the Amazon Trade-In Store, not be damaged, include original packaging (e.g. the manual, cover art, and case), and be postmarked no later than 7 days after submission. You will receive an e-mail confirmation and an Amazon.com Gift Card will be deposited into your account within 2 business days of item receipt and verification by the merchant. Items not accepted by the merchant will be returned to you approximately 14 days after receipt.
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GENERAL FAQ (Updated 12/26/2012)
Can I post a question on this thread?
Only if you can't find the answer from below. And please let me know if it needs to be added to FAQ.

Can I edit this FAQ? (updated 6/7/11)
You bet!

Since when did Amazon start doing trades?
The program began in 2009 and is handled by a third party merchant, previously known as NorAm International. Now known as AFS (Amazon Fulfillment Services).

What kind of shipping does Amazon provide us?
Free UPS ground ---- USPS is no longer available for free. There is now also an option to provide your own shipping.

Do I have to provide my own box or envelope?
Yes.

Do all my games in the same trade-in submission have to be shipped in the same box? (updated 3/9/11)
Not necessarily - people have sent in multiple boxes for the same trade-in submission successfully. It's even possible to send half at one time and the other half at the end of the valid shipping period. However, it's probably best to always ship everything at once.

Can I put separate trades in to a single box? (updated 6/7/11)
Sure, and they'll likely be accepted just fine. However, it isn't recommended since you would only have proof that you sent one of the trades (whichever mailing label you used). So it can be pretty risky.

Can I send in sealed games?
Yes. They won't reject games that still have the original shrink wrap.

Can I add Delivery Confirmation and Insurance to my shipment?
UPS Ground already provides you with tracking information, and I imagine you could get some sort of insurance added at a UPS store or location if you were so inclined.

I don't trust UPS ground. Can I pay for postage myself? What's the address?
Yes. You're more than welcome to do so. Just use the address on the amazon provided shipping label and make sure to get some sort of tracking.

When do I have to send my games once I have submitted my trade order?
You have 1 week (7 days) to send your games. There have been reports of submitting trades up to 15 - 20 days late, but that is definitely ymmv and not in the written rules. Send on time for the best chance at success!

Crap, I have one day to go before my shipment deadline, but the website states that my deadline has already passed. How do I print out a shipping label and packing slip? (Updated 9/9/13)
Load up any existing order (if you don't have any, check your browser's history or just submit a new one to use the link), and substitute the transaction ID for the trade-in order you need at the end of the URL.

Some step by step directions:
1. Go to your trade-in page on Amazon and find the Trade-In ID of the transaction:

Trade-In Placed:

August 24, 2013

  • Total Amount Submitted: $35.00
  • Amount Paid: $0.00
2. Copy the entire Trade-In ID (i.e. TRN-1234567-1234567) to your clipboard by highlighting it and hitting Ctrl+C or right click -> copy with your mouse

3. Paste the Trade-In ID to the end of this link:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/tradein/multicondition-your-account/print-label/ref=trdrt_ya_yaprnt?ie=UTF8&orderID=

So it should look like this:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/tradein/multicondition-your-account/print-label/ref=trdrt_ya_yaprnt?ie=UTF8&orderID=TRN-1234567-1234567

The Print Shipping Label screen for that trade should now come up.

How long does the whole trade-in process usually take?
From the time you send in your games, it may take up to 14 business days for the package to arrive. Most people usually receive their credit (Amazon GiftCard) in 3 to 5 business days, however.

How long does the "processing" status usually take? (Updated 10/11/12)
Usually a day or two with little delay at all. It may take multiple days or even weeks if it's an usual item/hardware.

My games were received on Friday (based on Delivery Confirmation), will I have to wait until Monday to receive credit?
People have received credit on a Saturday.

I do not have the manual, cover art, or original case for a game I want to trade in. Will they accept it? (updated 6/9/11)
While the details specifically state that original packaging is necessary, people have reported in the past that their trades were accepted despite missing some of these. This is extremely YMMV, however since some were also rejected by missing manual or cover art. On the other hand, older gen games; such as SNES, N64, and GB cartridges, normally get accepted without the original box and manual, but still YMMV.

It should be noted that with the new condition requirements (see later in the FAQ), you may be able to send an item in missing some or all of the required items (manual / cover art / case) and still have it accepted in "Acceptable" condition.

I do not have the manual, accessories, original box, original included game, etc for a console or accessory I want to trade in. Will they accept it? (updated 3/9/11)
The current wisdom is "probably not" - it's pretty YMMV but AFS seems stricter than they should be on this. Your chances seem to be better for them accepting a console or accessory without the box / manual / etc if it's older generation or rare. You're more than welcome to give it a shot though if you're feeling lucky - just pack it well and include as much as you can! Don't expect greater than 'acceptable' condition though.

My game is really beat up, what are the chances they’ll accept it?
This is YMMV. Some people have reported in the past that they sent in games in bad shape that were still accepted. Your best bet is still to trade in games in mint condition. Minor scratches are expected as these are used games.

My game came with DLC codes and I used them. Will my game be accepted? (Updated 12/28/11)
It is expected that included DLC codes have already been redeemed, so you should be fine. It is a kindness however if you have no use for it to not redeem it and let the next lucky soul who buys it from awd or wherever have a crack at it. Up to you!

My cover art (PLATINUM HITS) differs from the pic on amazon, will my trade be accepted?
It all depends on the UPC so just turn your game around, type in the UPC into the amazon search box. If the game comes up, then it's accepted regardless of cover art. Click on that result to submit your trade.

I have a game from a limited edition bundle, will they accept it?
If the game’s cover art has a UPC barcode, they will most likely accept it. If your game's cover states "Not for Resale" and does not have a UPC barcode, the game will most likely get rejected. Some people have had their games accepted in the past, but this is very YMMV.

The UPC barcode is not intact on my game's cover art, will that be accepted? (updated 3/9/11)
This is YMMV, but probably not. The UPC is all powerful within the walls of AFS..

I sent in my games, all of which were in pristine condition with the original packaging, but they said that one game is damaged and is now being returned.
Always pack your games well. Put a lot of newspaper around your games in the box to secure them and to prevent any damages from haphazard box cutting. People in the past have requested their entire trade-in order if it’s obvious the damage wasn’t their fault, and Amazon ended up accepting the rejected game. This is YMMV as well.

Can I trade in multiple copies of the same game?
Yes. Once you click “Trade in” for a particular game, you may change the quantities. Once you submit, you can no longer change quantities on that trade-in batch.

How many multiple copies of the same game can I trade-in (updated 1/11/11)?
Maximum of 2 copies within 3 a month period.

I locked in X copies of a game but I now only have Y available to send. Can I just send in Y without being penalized? (updated 3/9/11)
Yes, you can always just send in a portion of your trade-in order and they'll just credit you for whatever they receive. However, the quantities you submitted for will stay locked in that instance (I think) so if you, for example, submitted for 2 copies and only sent 1, you may not be able to trade any more copies of that game for 3 months (see previous question).

Will the Trade-in of the Day TIV stay for 24 hours?
It's been reported that there is a limit (maximum # of copies) that will get the promoted TIV so lock yours.

So if I find a good flip, I can just send 2 copies of that game and not worry about Amazon accusing me of stolen merchandise?
Technically yes, but do keep in mind that other CAGs might want to participate in the current deal, and trading in a large number of the same game will definitely lower the TIV of said game. Let’s be nice to other people. This is probably moot for most folks now with the per account / address trade-in limit.

Wow, these TIVs suck (updated 3/9/11)!
Really? Hrm. While that may be true, they're often better than other comparable places. Your options of what to do with your used games are greater now than they've ever been, so feel free to shop your trades around or just sell them off on glyde/ebay/whatever. Also, not a question.

What the fuck? The TIV of a game I just bought for this deal tanked! What do I do?
The TIVs on Amazon fluctuate depending on the number of trades that are submitted, and we really can’t do anything about it. The best course of action for trading in games is to lock in your trade if you already have the games or are absolutely sure that you can obtain them. You can always cancel the trade submission if you end up not finding the games.
LOCK = SUBMIT YOUR TRADE, Don't just put it in the cart.

Can I edit a submitted trade?
Nope - once upon a time you could modify trade in quantities of submitted trades, but that ability has been removed.

Can I use my credit on items that are not video game-related?
Yes. This is the other perk for trading in games at Amazon since you're not limited to just video games.

Can I use my credit on items sold by third-party merchants on Amazon?
According to the fine print of the Amazon gift card use, some merchants are excluded. Your best bet is to try it on the checkout page of your order.

Strategy guides? I can trade in game/strategy guides? Whaaaaa?
Go to the Textbook Buyback section (http://www.amazon.com/Textbooks-Trad...ode=2205237011[/URL]). You can either search on the title of a strategy guide you have to see if they'll accept it, or search for guides. The two best search strings to start with are 'prima guides' and 'bradygames'. Might try 'doublejump' if you want to trade in some of those. (Thanks eugaet)

I locked in some hilariously overvalued trade for some weird rare game/accessory/etc that I can pick up for cheap cheap cheap. They didn't accept it. What should I do? (updated 3/9/11)
The truth is that AFS can reject things for any reason they see fit. While some people have managed to get silly things like a $200 credit for some cheerleading game (or for a PS2 - just ask io!), it's sooooooo YMMV that often it's not worth the effort. EXPECT REJECTION ON THINGS THAT ARE CLEARLY MISVALUED. That said, as long as you're willing to risk it, go for it!

What's all this item condition nonsense? And how can I get screwed over by it? (updated 6/9/11)
We're still kinda sussing out the details surrounding the new item condition portion of Amazon Trade-Ins, but it looks like there's a couple things to consider:
Good Condition eligibility (games):
- The video game, original manufacturer packaging and all original elements are included, but shows wear from normal use
- Game still plays perfectly
- Disc may have light scratches and other elements may have minor damage
- Item may have been personalized (marked or identified)

Acceptable eligibility (games):
- Game still plays perfectly
- Item may have been personalized (marked or identified)
- Item may be missing or have irreparable damage to one or all of the following: case, manual, artwork, bundled accessories, UPC

Note that a game will almost certainly not be accepted if it meets any of these conditions:
- Game does not play perfectly
- Disc is cracked
- Marked Not for Resale (or is otherwise marked not for sale)

Consoles/accessories have some slightly different criteria, but the idea is the same.

Did it seriously just ask me if I wanted my game / other item returned if they refuse to give me credit for it? (updated 6/9/11)
Yes, that just happened.

Unless you're purposefully sending them things you deem to be trash, please remember to choose the option that has them return your item to you during the checkout phase.

Who is AFS? (updated 9/14/13)
Amazon Fulfillment Services (previously known as NorAm). Dunno if they changed names, were bought up by Amazon, or what. Not too interested anyhow.

Why does my package jump back and forth between states? (updated 9/14/13)
Look at a map of the involved cities and it'll make sense. Something to do with UPS hubs and proximity to the state border/cities.

Post away!

 
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Has anyone else submitted trade-ins been acting crazy? I submitted a game got the email for it but don't see it on my trade in page

 
Yea I've has it happen for a few things on chrome crazy thing is if I go incognito it works without a problem.On the ones that showed up ghost in the email I can still get to the page to print the label for them .I'm wondering if I still send them in will amazon still be able to track the trade-in ID for the credit or would I run into any problems

 
hi - if we are trading in a collectors edition like Prestige COD, can we remove the Season Pass voucher?  Or does the trade in company require everything? 

Thanks!

 
  • Game still plays perfectly
  • Item may have been personalized (marked or identified)
  • Item may be missing or have irreparable damage to one or all of the following: case, manual, artwork, bundled accessories, UPC
This is the description for sending in as acceptable, does this mean I can send in a collectors edition (game and box) without all the extras?
 
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Blade3D said:
  • Game still plays perfectly
  • Item may have been personalized (marked or identified)
  • Item may be missing or have irreparable damage to one or all of the following: case, manual, artwork, bundled accessories, UPC
This is the description for sending in as acceptable, does this mean I can send in a collectors edition (game and box) without all the extras?
Click to expand...
YMMV, but you're supposed to be able too.

 
DealSeeker2U said:
This is back up in value:

:gc: GameCube Platinum (Includes Super Smash Brothers Melee) TIV $94.02
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Yigytugd said:
^Damn you college text books! I'm still going to aim for acceptable (for $68) for that Gamecube. Should be fairly easy finding a platinum console for cords for cheap.

EDIT: As with all these older Nintendo consoles, it's easy to find them but hard to find w/ cables or controllers. For $135~ TIV for two, I'll see.
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slowdive21 said:
I was just going to post this! I forgot to send mine in, so I have to send in at least 1 this time. :) I have 1 plat sitting right here, but I know I have several in storage.
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Questions I have about this (I saw the above note about required conditions trade-in must meet):

- You DON'T have to send in Super Smash Bros?

- No need for the box or instructions?

- This bundle originally came with silver controllers, but can I send it in with a black controller?

 
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skateraXVIII said:
Questions I have about this (I saw the above note about required conditions trade-in must meet):

- You DON'T have to send in Super Smash Bros?

- No need for the box or instructions?

- This bundle originally came with silver controllers, but can I send it in with a black controller?
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1. For acceptable, not really

2. For acceptable, not really

3. For acceptable, not really

However, for anything above acceptable you do need to meet all those criterias. Also, make sure you include the cords or they will likely reject it for whatever reason.

 
SadPanda99 said:
The pic shows Wii Sports and not Wii Sports Resort, which game do you need to send in with it ?
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It was my understanding that you might not need to include the game for the Acceptable condition, unless you have the original packaging for a white Wii lying around and want to try for Good or Like New.

 
Vigilante said:
It was my understanding that you might not need to include the game for the Acceptable condition, unless you have the original packaging for a white Wii lying around and want to try for Good or Like New.
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Like Vigilante said the game will only be essential if you have the box and intend to submit it as good (not likely going to get it without the box). Otherwise, you should be fine without one or to be safe submit one of them.

 
Might be a bit much for me to invest into trading in. The Wii's would be $60 - $70 and the Gamecube's would be $40 - $50. I'd still make good money but don't want so much money into Amazon. 

Hopefully I can still get 4 consoles for cheap. If not I'll just let the trade in expire.

 
GamerDude316 said:
for anyone who sent these in before...did you have to include silver controller as well? I might try and pick one up on the cheap but now sure what I need as far as cords, controllers, etc.
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Sent this out last time it was this high and got it rejected for being the wrong item. Sent the silver controller and cables but not Smash Bros. Locked it in again guess I'll try it again
 
DealSeeker2U said:
1. For acceptable, not really

2. For acceptable, not really

3. For acceptable, not really

However, for anything above acceptable you do need to meet all those criterias. Also, make sure you include the cords or they will likely reject it for whatever reason.
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Locked in two "acceptable" gamecubes. The gamecube I'm getting tomorrow apparently comes with 2 black controllers, not "platinum" (silver). Will send in and see what happens.

 
I've seen so many gamecubes while looking for games at goodwill before. YMMV, but whenever mine gets one they only ask 6.99. Granted that's with no controllers or cables, but if you have extras it may be worthwhile to give it a shot.
 
When trading in consoles as Acceptable, I've found it best to also print [and paperclip with the packaging slip] a screenshot of selecting a trade-in condition (New, Very Good, or however they label it). I believe you just click the word "Acceptable" and it will tell you 'item maybe missing game, cords, etc. Print, then highlight all of Acceptable's terms. 

 
Coper3000 said:
When trading in consoles as Acceptable, I've found it best to also print [and paperclip with the packaging slip] a screenshot of selecting a trade-in condition (New, Very Good, or however they label it). I believe you just click the word "Acceptable" and it will tell you 'item maybe missing game, cords, etc. Print, then highlight all of Acceptable's terms.
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I could see that I would do that and get someone who that would just piss off and they would reject it on the spot. :whee:

 
has anyone else experienced this: ups tracking shows my trade in was delivered 1/14 11:30am yet on my trade-in account summary the trade in status is listed as "not yet received."  how long do you recommend waiting before contacting Amazon?

 
johnston306 said:
has anyone else experienced this: ups tracking shows my trade in was delivered 1/14 11:30am yet on my trade-in account summary the trade in status is listed as "not yet received." how long do you recommend waiting before contacting Amazon?
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There has been times recently that I've gotten my credit while not even going through the processing stage. And by rule you supposed to be receiving it within 5 business days from when they receive it so I would wait a little if I was you.
 
[quote name="johnston306" post="11449437" timestamp="1389896663"]has anyone else experienced this: ups tracking shows my trade in was delivered 1/14 11:30am yet on my trade-in account summary the trade in status is listed as "not yet received." how long do you recommend waiting before contacting Amazon?[/quote]

I've got this stays for two trade ins that were delivered right now.
 
boogie4114 said:
There has been times recently that I've gotten my credit while not even going through the processing stage. And by rule you supposed to be receiving it within 5 business days from when they receive it so I would wait a little if I was you.
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Was going to say something similar to this. It took them 4 business days to "process" my traded in copy of Killzone Mercenary after they received it.

 
johnston306 said:
has anyone else experienced this: ups tracking shows my trade in was delivered 1/14 11:30am yet on my trade-in account summary the trade in status is listed as "not yet received." how long do you recommend waiting before contacting Amazon?
Click to expand...
It means they haven't even opened the package yet, relax.
 
I was at my local gamestop today and the NBA 2k13 Dynasty Edition 360 is going to be converted to used tomorrow.  Currently the trade in value is $46.60 on Amazon.  The manager was super cool and sold me the one they had as used anyway.  I dont know about the PS3 version because they only had the 360.  I have it locked in for $75 from back in August that never expired....wish me luck!

 
r00kie said:
I was at my local gamestop today and the NBA 2k13 Dynasty Edition 360 is going to be converted to used tomorrow. Currently the trade in value is $46.60 on Amazon. The manager was super cool and sold me the one they had as used anyway. I dont know about the PS3 version because they only had the 360. I have it locked in for $75 from back in August that never expired....wish me luck!
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I think I saw one at my GS a month or two ago. Maybe it's still there. I'll have to check. Thanks for the heads up.

 
r00kie said:
I was at my local gamestop today and the NBA 2k13 Dynasty Edition 360 is going to be converted to used tomorrow. Currently the trade in value is $46.60 on Amazon. The manager was super cool and sold me the one they had as used anyway. I dont know about the PS3 version because they only had the 360. I have it locked in for $75 from back in August that never expired....wish me luck!
Click to expand...
Much much did he charge you? Guessing $18?

 
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