What Happens If a Recycler Revises My Offer?

Occasionally, a recycler will make a revised offer after inspecting your phone — usually because the condition doesn't match the grade you selected when placing your order. Here's what happens, and what your options are.

When your phone arrives at the recycler, it goes through a physical inspection to verify the model, storage, and condition against your order. If everything matches, your original quoted price is paid. If the recycler assesses the condition as lower than you declared — for example, they find screen scratches not disclosed, or a fault not mentioned — they'll make a revised, lower offer. You are never obligated to accept a revised offer. If you decline, the recycler will return your phone to you at no charge. Most recyclers aim to complete inspections within 1–3 working days of receiving your device.

Tips

1 · Accurate grading is the best prevention
Take time to assess your phone honestly before placing your order. Check the screen in good light at multiple angles, test every feature, and choose the grade that reflects what the recycler will actually find.
See our condition grading guide →
2 · You always have the right to decline
If you're not happy with a revised offer, you can decline it and have your phone returned. No reputable recycler charges a return fee in this situation.
3 · Respond to revised offers promptly
Recyclers typically hold revised offers open for a set period — often 5–7 days. If you don't respond within that window, check the recycler's terms, as some may process automatically.
4 · Consider re-listing at the correct grade
If a revised offer is significantly lower than your original quote, you could decline, have the phone returned, and compare again on sellmobilephones.com at the lower condition grade. Another recycler may pay more at that grade.

Frequently asked questions

Why has the recycler offered me less than the quoted price?

The recycler has assessed your phone's condition as lower than the grade you selected when placing your order. Common reasons include undisclosed screen scratches, an unmentioned fault, or a battery health below expectations.

Do I have to accept a revised offer?

No. You can always decline a revised offer and have your phone returned to you. There is no obligation to accept.

Will I have to pay for the phone to be returned?

No reputable recycler charges a return fee if you decline a revised offer. Check the recycler's terms on their profile to confirm their returns policy before placing your order.

How do I avoid getting a revised offer?

Accurate condition grading when placing your order is key. Inspect your phone thoroughly — check the screen in good light, test every feature, and don't overstate the condition.

Read our condition grading guide →
How long do I have to respond to a revised offer?

This varies by recycler. Most give you between 3 and 7 days. The email notification from the recycler will specify the deadline for your response.