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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Darby27 said:
Is that god of war psp still worth anything tiv wise? I just found one
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No, the TIV dropped to $71. It was $143 LN TIV. There were 4 for $66 on AWD, I brought 2.

I just talked to Amazon chat and they refunded me $42 (out of the $140 I paid) for both PSP's. So $100 out of pocket for the two. I'm going to trade in 1 and return the other since I was given the option to return it and get the refund.

Time to buy The Italian Job UMD and a used official PSP charger to go with it.

 
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CaseX said:
"Incorrect Item" (Defiance CE... :whistle2:( )
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Opening myself up to rage, but I actually got mine accepted, when they were rejected for "Wrong item" I called them on their lie (Considering I literally bought one of them RIGHT FROM AMAZON!) and got them to, that if they were accepted the second time around, to cover the difference in credit :)

 
No problem getting 2x each of  :ps3: No More Heroes and :ps3: Dynasty Warriors: Gundam both accepted as Good. I guess :360: Dead Or Alive Xtreme 2 was the "Manager Special" this month. :roll:

 
Nier tanked in TIV again -.- at $3

Should have traded it in since I dont have time to play it.

 
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Vigilante said:
$3.99/$3.59 -> $9.58/$7.33

http://www.amazon.com/Last-Rebellion-Playstation-3/dp/B002DC8GRC/
http://www.gamestop.com/ps3/games/last-rebellion/77000
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klimb22 said:
That's what I say. Look at all the folks who just buy Amazon cards with GS credit. Anything is better than 1:1 if you're not going out of your way.
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It's down to $5 now. I still just buy more Kindle cards than I deal with trades (though I did get a No More Heroes and an Earth Defense Force 2025 traded in the last couple of weeks).

But the trades are so few and far between that I've resorted to the 1:1 when I run out of Amazon credit. Either I miss them (like this) or there are none within 100 miles (30+ stores) while all you guys find them everywhere (so annoying!). And now I'm starting to run out of GS credit as well. I haven't been completely out of GS credit in 6+ years, but it is running pretty low now. The only reason I didn't run out earlier was that I upgraded a few of the family phones and traded in 2 of the old ones to GS last Fall for $400+.
 
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I locked in something a few weeks ago. It expired today, but it also finished processing today. On the top, under Transaction Status, it says Verified and Processed, but to the side, it says Expired. Will it finish processing and will I get my credit or will it stay expired?

 
Eternal Session said:
I locked in something a few weeks ago. It expired today, but it also finished processing today. On the top, under Transaction Status, it says Verified and Processed, but to the side, it says Expired. Will it finish processing and will I get my credit or will it stay expired?
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It has gone through for me all the times that it stayed like that.

It's up to the grader and that's it.

Nothing more we can tell you.

 
Eternal Session said:
I locked in something a few weeks ago. It expired today, but it also finished processing today. On the top, under Transaction Status, it says Verified and Processed, but to the side, it says Expired. Will it finish processing and will I get my credit or will it stay expired?
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Usually you end up getting the credit but I've also had one sent back. Worked out though since I managed to get like $20 more a couple weeks after I got it back.

 
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Megamania said:
I have sent in my Ceramic White PS2 As Acceptable as well.

I'll let you guys know if it goes it.
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did you submit it under the singstar bundle? $172.xx! Funny thing is we got one of these sealed from a raffle at a hockey game. It was when the PS3 MGS bundle was just released and knowing I'd go to the PS3 w/SW BC (still have it), there was no reason to break this out of it's box. It's outta here! Thanks for the heads up.

 
bob330i said:
did you submit it under the singstar bundle? $172.xx! Funny thing is we got one of these sealed from a raffle at a hockey game. It was when the PS3 MGS bundle was just released and knowing I'd go to the PS3 w/SW BC (still have it), there was no reason to break this out of it's box. It's outta here! Thanks for the heads up.
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Yeah, honestly I hope it gets accepted. No reason not to.

 
Megamania said:
Yeah, honestly I hope it gets accepted. No reason not to.
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well yes and no. If it has the accessories for it, then I'd agree. I think that the guys/gals sending in acceptable consoles w/o the noted accessories been 50/50 at best. Look at Rock Revolution/Guitar Hero/Sing It and others, seems like a mixed bag. Good if you do, just seems like taking advantage of the system a bit knowing that it was a bundle and you're not including the bundle items or at least some of the accessories. I'm not willing to go through the hassle of sending it in multiple times on the off chance you get it approved.

 
bob330i said:
well yes and no. If it has the accessories for it, then I'd agree. I think that the guys/gals sending in acceptable consoles w/o the noted accessories been 50/50 at best. Look at Rock Revolution/Guitar Hero/Sing It and others, seems like a mixed bag. Good if you do, just seems like taking advantage of the system a bit knowing that it was a bundle and you're not including the bundle items or at least some of the accessories. I'm not willing to go through the hassle of sending it in multiple times on the off chance you get it approved.
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Yeah, I know but I have been lucky, lol.

Honestly it's just been sitting there. So I am taking my chances.

 
Is it possible to still ship something and have it accepted after the "mail by" date?  Won't be able to ship MGS until later next week and the cutoff date is in two days.

 
Kanik said:
Is it possible to still ship something and have it accepted after the "mail by" date? Won't be able to ship MGS until later next week and the cutoff date is in two days.
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Yes--despite the mail-by date being 1 week from when you initiated the trade-in, you actually have 25 days from the initiation date for the trade-in to be accepted before you risk the trade-in being canceled.

 
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Vigilante said:
Yes--despite the mail-by date being 1 week from when you initiated the trade-in, you actually have 25 days from the initiation date for the trade-in to be accepted before you risk the trade-in being canceled.
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Good to hear, thanks for the info and the maximum time I have to trade in!

 
Had to talk to Amazon CS today about a supposed "crack" on a disc.  Definitely wasn't there when I sent it.  Reading other people's similar tales in this thread, I wonder what they do to crack it.  I doubt it is the mail because the case and box/package should protect it.  Perhaps they stack boxes too high and the bottom ones get squished, or maybe it is used as a Frisbee.

 
Quintessence said:
Had to talk to Amazon CS today about a supposed "crack" on a disc. Definitely wasn't there when I sent it. Reading other people's similar tales in this thread, I wonder what they do to crack it. I doubt it is the mail because the case and box/package should protect it. Perhaps they stack boxes too high and the bottom ones get squished, or maybe it is used as a Frisbee.
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Sometimes there is no crack

 
Does anyone remember the highest Fritz Chess DS has gotten to?

Picked up a copy that my GS got shipped to them the other day for $10 after PUR, BD, and tax.

(does anyone know what the print run on the DS version was?)

 
Darby27 said:
Does anyone remember the highest Fritz Chess DS has gotten to?

Picked up a copy that my GS got shipped to them the other day for $10 after PUR, BD, and tax.

(does anyone know what the print run on the DS version was?)
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I want to say the print run was pretty close to between 10k-15k

 
I would like to trade nintendoland with luigi wii remote plus but keep the wii remote if I send it in as acceptable what are chances it will be rejected?
 
nattubbz said:
I would like to trade nintendoland with wii remote plus but keep the wii remote if I send it in as acceptable what are chances it will be rejected?luigi
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mine got rejected for wrong item, depends on who checks it, as in the past i got a wii play bundle accepted without the wiimote.

actually it got rejected for incorrect upc, which is funny since it didnt have a upc since i have the cover art right here with me.

 
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I somewhat remember receiving items from Amazon and do realize things can get hung up on waiting for whatever shipping you choose?  One warehouse facility was in Louisville, KY my Smurf DVD set was delayed at that center.  They held the package for 28 days and I did NOT receive it until end of July last year 2013.  I can't even compare this wait with Ebay, Ebay uses fast services provide excellent customer assistance and I did NOT wait.  I ordered an Adrian pool cue made specially hand crafted inside his own garage.  He used a table saw to saw the Mahogony wood finish "including" three layers of graphite, lead and birchwood.  This was only at the "bottom" part of the cue.  The top portion was all Mahogony with a felted tip.  The inlays made a well designed product for a very affordable cost.  I fell in love with the cue and use it on the 7" Tiger Hurry table I own at home.  Nice stroke and has improved my game 100X over.  Anyway the Smurf DVD set was delayed 30 days held in Louisville until it finally was transferred to Rockford, IL warehouse then Skokie, IL warehouse and lastly made it to my home in Naperville, IL.  I did NOT mind the wait except for how incredibly rude Amazon customer service was in handling this matter.  They simply said we "lost your package" in process of it transitioning to you!  We can solidify your worries by offering you a $30.00 gift card and free shipping on your following six orders.

 
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