Amazon Trade-In FAQ 5.0

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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
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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gamestop's website was waaay more fun when all of those broken features also meant broken stacking promos that resulted in $1-2 games and half price preorders. Sad that they fixed that but stuff like, I dunno, contacting customer service and self service order management are still wonky. I thought that when I was randombanned from their site a couple years ago I'd miss it, but I haven't.
I should of learned after the Injustice thing. Tried to cancel, couldn't because it was in a box and they shipped me the wrong item. Called them and returned it, they sent me another one two weeks later instead of giving me a refund. Once I had the right item I just returned it to the store.

 
Sorry if this has already been asked, but do the Steelbook versions of Tomb Raider and the regular version have different UPCs? Might just trade in my extra copy.

 
so far I have not been able to sell this new marvel ultimate alliance 2 or Modern Warefare 2 Hardened edition on amazon. Not sure how long I should wait before just trading them both in.
I'd buy Marvel from you.

 
Hmm, I have a BBY TR CE that I am tempted to send in. I'll wait and see if that one goes through and hold onto the GS CE I just bought since it's still sealed.

I need AMZ site to come back up. So many trade-ins to take care of, so little time!

 
Quick question, Want to send in 3 out of the 4 games I have on my trade list order.  There's no consequence for not turning in the missing game that will affect the other 3 games in my order right?

 
I need help transfer $60 to gamestop, any ideas? Have orange box the fifa 13. What are others I wont lose money on or could even profit from with the 50% bonus?

 
Remember the Defiance thing where they rejected all of them for wrong UPC yet still opened almost all of them?
Huh? I don't remember anyone receiving their Defiance CEs back opened if they were sent in sealed. I received all 4 of mine back unopened.

 
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There might be potential to make a little change on the buy a 360 game and upgrade for $10 deal.  I was thinking of this scenario, buy madden 25 at gamestop and then they will give you the voucher to claim an xbox one game for $10.  That coupon can be redeemed by 12/31

Once you are ready to upgrade you can then trade the 360 game into amazon instead and use the coupon gamestop gives you for something else.  For example, if you see one of those games that are eligible for this deal on sale on black friday for really cheap you can then buy it, take it to gamestop and use your coupon with it.

None of this is guaranteed to work, just trying to think of possible scenarios that might help others.  Plus if you are intending on buying these games anyways, then you have nothing to lose.

 
Once you are ready to upgrade you can then trade the 360 game into amazon instead and use the coupon gamestop gives you for something else. For example, if you see one of those games that are eligible for this deal on sale on black friday for really cheap you can then buy it, take it to gamestop and use your coupon with it.
FYI. As worded in their press statement, the coupon doesn't let you "buy" anything else; it only guarantees you $50 in credit for trading in the current gen version. It's not a real coupon for $50 towards anything. So if you send in the current gen copy to Amazon, the coupon is useless.

(based on what we know so far...but you're right, depending on how they actually implement it...could be opportunities...)

 
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FYI. As worded in their press statement, the coupon doesn't let you "buy" anything else; it only guarantees you $50 in credit for trading in the current gen version. It's not a real coupon for $50 towards anything. So if you send in the current gen copy to Amazon, the coupon is useless.

(based on what we know so far...but you're right, depending on how they actually implement it...could be opportunities...)

Yea, that's what I meant. I feel like there is might be more opportunity for 360 games to be cheaper on black friday sales. Then all you would have to do is pick up the same game you originally purchased to get the voucher.

I'm thinking of scenarios like $30-40 for madden 25. If you bought that somewhere else to replenish your gamestop copy you would be coming out ahead. Then if the gamestop deal requires you to upgrade the xbox one game to the same title then you would just have to return it to the store for credit and purchase something else in its place.

 
Hi folks, I got a blazblue xbox 360 game from ebay for $11 to trade in to amazon for $23.55. Received the game today and its in perfect condition. The bonus DVD is still sealed in plastic wrap. There are absolutely no scratches on the dvd and everything is in perfect condition. Just wondering if I am better off selling/trading it somewhere else or I should trade it in to amazon for $23.55?

 
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Hi folks, I got a blazblue xbox 360 game from ebay for $11 to trade in to amazon for $23.55. Received the game today and its in perfect condition. The bonus DVD is still sealed in plastic wrap. There are absolutely no scratches on the dvd and everything is in perfect condition. Just wondering if I am better off selling/trading it somewhere else or I should trade it in to amazon for $23.55?
Amazon. Trust me, after fees/shipping, you won't get much more anywhere. You might even get less.

 
Thanks for the quick reply. To amazon it'll go.
You can't beat free shipping and you can pack it in any box you want.

@Miami Flash15 I agree, even though sometimes I prefer real money and would take less real money rather than credit, it's just not worth the hassle in this case. And unless you're selling to craigslist, CAG, you're not gonna receive/ be able to use the money for at least a week - three weeks. (ebay, Amazon seller).

 
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You can't beat free shipping and you can pack it in any box you want.

@Miami Flash15 I agree, even though sometimes I prefer real money and would take less real money rather than credit, it's just not worth the hassle in this case. And unless you're selling to craigslist, CAG, you're not gonna receive/ be able to use the money for at least a week - three weeks. (ebay, Amazon seller).
Yup and to me Amazon credit is just as good as cash. Buy groceries and use them for textbooks and all that goodstuff. Especially now, just saving credit up for next-gen

 
Huh? I don't remember anyone receiving their Defiance CEs back opened if they were sent in sealed. I received all 4 of mine back unopened.
Maybe it wasn't all of them but most of the people who posted in the wake of it that sent it in new were saying it was opened anyway.

 
Maybe it wasn't all of them but most of the people who posted in the wake of it that sent it in new were saying it was opened anyway.
I sent in 2 copies unopened and received them back, both unopened. They also sent me back a 360 version that was opened, but I never sent a 360 version in...

 
I sent in 2 copies unopened and received them back, both unopened. They also sent me back a 360 version that was opened, but I never sent a 360 version in...
Maybe it was just the vocal minority who were now freaking out about having to sell it opened. Maybe I just imagined the whole thing. :whee:

 
Maybe it was just the vocal minority who were now freaking out about having to sell it opened. Maybe I just imagined the whole thing. :whee:
Haha I think the ones who were most outraged were the ones whose copies did get opened. They, in theory, would also be more likely to post about their increased disappointment. I do remember hearing about other's horror stories and was very worried about mine before I got them back. I was able to return my 2 copies to Amazon and got my credit back, though!

 
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Haha I think the ones who were most outraged were the ones whose copies did get opened. They, in theory, would also be more likely to post about their increased disappointment. I do remember hearing about other's horror stories and was very worried about mine before I got them back. I was able to return my 2 copies to Amazon and got my credit back, though!
Hearing that not everyone got quite as screwed on that as it sounded makes me a little less worried about these Tomb Raider CEs that they wouldn't let me cancel. Figure I can submit one and throw the other up on eBay for a high price and I'll have enough time to send in the second one if the first goes through and the second hasn't sold yet.

 
Sorry if this has already been asked, but do the Steelbook versions of Tomb Raider and the regular version have different UPCs? Might just trade in my extra copy.
Yes, they have different UPCs. The Steelbook UPC is unique to Target stores only.
I'm trying to remember for sure but I think people have received the steelbook version after ordering from AWD. If I'm remembering that right then they're probably accepting them.

 
If I am sending them disc only, do you guys think it matters if I send them in xbox 360 cases or not?

I want to buy some jewel cases and just keep the boxes.

 
Quick question on how this works for the X1 upgrade.

Am I guaranteed that I will only have to pay $10 to upgrade madden if I trade it in before 12/31?

Do I wait to initiate the trade when I'm ready to dump my 360 game and then get the X1 version?

Just a little confused on the logistics of the deal.
 
Quick question on how this works for the X1 upgrade.

Am I guaranteed that I will only have to pay $10 to upgrade madden if I trade it in before 12/31?

Do I wait to initiate the trade when I'm ready to dump my 360 game and then get the X1 version?

Just a little confused on the logistics of the deal.
it'll hopefully make more sense when madden 25 drops and we can see how the tiv works. it sounds like a guaranteed minimum $25 tiv on listed titles plus a $25 promo credit towards those titles once verified (which will actually nuke the tax burden a bit which is nice).

edit: essentially yes though, send in the 360 version and have it verified prior to 12/31 and you should end up with at least $25 trade in credit and $25 promo credit towards the upgraded version. you should be able to use the trade in credit towards anything sold by amazon, and the promo credit will reduce the x1 version of the game by $25 (i.e. it'll become $35 when you check out). Or that's my guess.
 
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Quick question on how this works for the X1 upgrade.

Am I guaranteed that I will only have to pay $10 to upgrade madden if I trade it in before 12/31?

Do I wait to initiate the trade when I'm ready to dump my 360 game and then get the X1 version?

Just a little confused on the logistics of the deal.
I didn't read all the fine print with the Amazon one but the GS one guarantees that if you trade it by the deadline then you get a $50 TIV as long as the Xone version of the same game is bought at the same time. I would assume that the Amazon one's going to be similar where once they receive it you probably get the normal TIV in credit and a promotional code that only applies to the Xone version that's the difference between $50 and the TIV when you submitted it.

 
If I am sending them disc only, do you guys think it matters if I send them in xbox 360 cases or not?

I want to buy some jewel cases and just keep the boxes.
You should be good with just a jewel case. The last 2 disc-only games I've had got accepted that way. Good luck!

 
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I sent the copies of Fight Night 3 I got today in the sleeves that GS uses because the generic cases they had were scribbled on with marker saying they were something different.  Figured it was best to simplify it for them.

 
I know the trade in limit is 2 but my g/f wants to trade some stuff in to get credit saved up for her Christmas shopping for her family.

If she trades in games that ive already traded 2 of on her own account, do you think she would be able to or will they see the address match up and we might get both our accounts banned?

I thought maybe it would be bad but not sure.

 
I know the trade in limit is 2 but my g/f wants to trade some stuff in to get credit saved up for her Christmas shopping for her family.

If she trades in games that ive already traded 2 of on her own account, do you think she would be able to or will they see the address match up and we might get both our accounts banned?

I thought maybe it would be bad but not sure.
It's okay and as far as I know no one has been banned for it yet. Seems their monitoring software doesn't extend to to cover trade-ins... yet!

 
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I know the trade in limit is 2 but my g/f wants to trade some stuff in to get credit saved up for her Christmas shopping for her family.

If she trades in games that ive already traded 2 of on her own account, do you think she would be able to or will they see the address match up and we might get both our accounts banned?

I thought maybe it would be bad but not sure.
just add a different address on your address book. I have sent in the same games as my brother and i use his address because i live in an apartment.

 
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