Official Amazon Trade-In FAQ 4.0 - READ 1st POST

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handsomepete

handsomepete

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

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. 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!

[quote name='Indigo_Streetlight']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.[/QUOTE]

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 NORAM 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
Click to expand...
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
Click to expand...
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.
Click to expand...
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GENERAL FAQ (Updated 06/07/2011)
Can I post a question on this thread?
  • Only if you can't find the answer from below. :lol: And please let me know if it needs to be added to FAQ.
Can I edit this FAQ? (updated 6/7/11)
  • You bet! Up top there is a section for notable TIVs - feel free to add anything in there (and if you can remember, clean up after yourself in a few days when the TIV has undoubtedly dropped). You can edit the FAQ too, please just make sure it's useful and well formatted! Thanks!
Since when did Amazon start doing trades?
  • The program began in 2009 and is handled by a third party merchant, NorAm International.
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. The address is:
    NorAm International
    22 Hampshire Dr
    Hudson, NH 03051
    (This is also an option when submitting your trades)
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. 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?
  • 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.
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 6/8/11)
  • Usually a day or with little delay at all, but the longest reported days so far is 4.
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 NorAm 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!
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 NorAm.
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/gamestaq/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 NORAM 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)
      Click to expand...

      [*]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
      Click to expand...

      [*]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)
      Click to expand...
    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 6/9/11)
  • Not sure yet, but that's the name on the trade-in shipping labels now instead of NORAM. May just be NORAM with a different name. This will be updated as we learn more.
Post away!
 
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Thanks for the tip on Amalur - it is a little too early, though, as it is indicating I have to ship by the 14th and the coupon doesn't start until the 15th. I know you can usually get away with a day or two, but that's really at the limit especially for those of us far from NorAm (where UPS takes 7-10 days to deliver).
 
io iv sent things 2-3 weeks after i locked them in and have always been good.
ymmv tho definately.
iv got 4 mp3's sitting in amazon limbo right now being processed.

i guess with next weeks b2g1f at bestbuy, you could flip nsmb right back for 30 off total, but eh.
so that's like 50 + 50 100 + tax, so like 110 -30, so like 80... so turns 2 $50 games into 2 $40 games... seems a bit much for me tho...
edit - or for fun, trade 2 in for 60 and get your $50 game for $50... wait a second... this heat is getting to me....
 
[quote name='DudeImGodly']it's 25 days from when you submit.[/QUOTE]

Exactly - so considering it takes 8-10 days shipment from the West Coast, if you wait till 8 or 9 days (since I probably can't get to BBY the same day the coupon starts and also mail them to NorAm that same day) it is pushing 20 right there. I guess it would be OK to lock it in right now (as I did) but I wouldn't go any further out than that.

Actually, I bought the game from GS used several weeks back during a B2G1 so I suppose I could just send that copy in anyway and upgrade myself to a new copy with the BBY sale - assuming it isn't some alternative UPC version. I'll have to check on that. Also assuming I can find one at Best Buy - not guaranteed.
 
Can't decide if I want to trade-in Saints Row the Third. Paid $40 for it, just beat the story, but haven't 100% it or done any of the DLC. Amazon is offering $15 for it. Should I sell it or play the DLC?
 
[quote name='ChosenOne1']Can't decide if I want to trade-in Saints Row the Third. Paid $40 for it, just beat the story, but haven't 100% it or done any of the DLC. Amazon is offering $15 for it. Should I sell it or play the DLC?[/QUOTE]

check half.com or GS, I think one of them has a higher trade value.
 
Does anyone use the Amazon trade in history tracker in the Op? I downloaded google chrome and signed in but when I look at a game in the trade in section I don't see anything that leads me to the tracker. Help?
 
Alamaur or whatever dropped to $19 on PS3 and still holding at $16.20 360

roughly 19 days if you locked in yesterday to get the game from bestbuy and send them off.
 
[quote name='handsomepete']Another 'if you picked up', if you snagged SSX :360: w/ bby coupon, it's trading for $20.25 now.[/QUOTE]

Nice find. Guess I won't get around to playing SSX.
 
[quote name='handsomepete']Another 'if you picked up', if you snagged SSX :360: w/ bby coupon, it's trading for $20.25 now.[/QUOTE]

Thanks for the heads up. It's at $16 now.
 
Probably last chance to lock Kingdoms of Amalur before the coupon frenzy starts tomorrow, likely tanking the value to hell and back. Still at 16 :360:/19 :ps3:. Also, Soul Calibur V finally rebounded on 360 back to ~$15 if you're looking to ditch your cheap bby copy.

One more, umvc3 :vita: is up to 24.30. I'm trading mine towards a psn card so I can (eventually) get it digital as it seems like I'd prefer just being able to launch it whenever without doing the card swap mambo.
 
[quote name='theking20']anyone ever trade in a Canadian game to amazon? wonder if the upc's are different.[/QUOTE]

Go to Amazon's trade-in site, and type the UPC into the search bar. If a game shows up, then you're good. If it doesn't show up, then it's hit-or-miss.
 
hopefully bestbuy accepts the games i sent in without manual it was tiger woods and fifa 13. I haven't trade in amazon in a while so not sure what the rules are on that.
 
[quote name='perdition(troy']Should I send a trade in that is new in the package or open it?[/QUOTE]

Doesn't matter - send it in new to ease any doubt on the condition requirements.
 
[quote name='bringerofdeath']hopefully bestbuy accepts the games i sent in without manual it was tiger woods and fifa 13. I haven't trade in amazon in a while so not sure what the rules are on that.[/QUOTE]
Those games, like most EA games these days don't come with a manual so I'm pretty sure you are ok. Good job getting Fifa 13 before release:)
 
i should have sent my fifa 13 for 30 tiv with no manual. i got scurred and went for 19 at bestbuy instead. i broke even, but i wish i would have made a profit. tis life
 
[quote name='Velo214']i should have sent my fifa 13 for 30 tiv with no manual. i got scurred and went for 19 at bestbuy instead. i broke even, but i wish i would have made a profit. tis life[/QUOTE]


Yeah, I sent in 2 without the manual and they both got accepted just fine for the full $29.70
 
[quote name='esalw822']Yeah, I sent in 2 without the manual and they both got accepted just fine for the full $29.70[/QUOTE]

Ditto. On another note, sent in Tom Clancy's future soldier walmart version. Hopefully, it will be accepted.
 
[quote name='Uso']Ditto. On another note, sent in Tom Clancy's future soldier walmart version. Hopefully, it will be accepted.[/QUOTE]
You run a 50/50 chance of being rejected if the UPC is different from the stock copy.
 
[quote name='@FIF']You run a 50/50 chance of being rejected if the UPC is different from the stock copy.[/QUOTE]

How do you know the odds? Do you work at the trade in facility? I imagine you are just making up that fact.
 
oh well. i just didnt want to send off and get rejected. i should have asked cag tho, cuz the moment i did that a bunch told me it was just another manual-less ea game. same with the 360 amalur i just sent off new. strange they give the ps3 manuals, even if tiny and black n white, but not 360. peace
 
My :360: FIFA 12 Good got rejected for not having the manual, so you never know. Whatever, I can actually get more now that it went off sale at Gamestop.
 
[quote name='handsomepete']so the shipping labels I printed for my last trade were to Kentucky, and holy cats! Shipped on Tuesday, processed today.[/QUOTE]

Hmm - I didn't notice that. I don't think it will make much difference for me.

But, man, this reuse of tracking numbers is a little strange. Check this out:

--------, United States 07/18/2012 1:49 A.M. Departure Scan
--------, United States 07/17/2012 11:00 P.M. Departure Scan
07/17/2012 5:34 P.M. The shipment has been dropped off and is now at The UPS Store®.
Nashua, NH, United States 08/09/2011 9:23 A.M. Delivered
United States 07/09/2012 2:58 A.M. Order Processed: Ready for UPS
Click to expand...

So, yeah, apparently, my package went back in time and got delivered at the old NorAm site in New Hampshire last August!
 
Looking to trade in some old guides that'll never trade but for some reason are worth a little on trade in. Got two questions though:

1. Should I send them in sealed or remove the packaging?

2. Its a limit of two of the same item per 6 months, right? I have many of one kind of guide and I just want to be sure.
 
[quote name='Devil May Cry']Looking to trade in some old guides that'll never trade but for some reason are worth a little on trade in. Got two questions though:

1. Should I send them in sealed or remove the packaging?

2. Its a limit of two of the same item per 6 months, right? I have many of one kind of guide and I just want to be sure.[/QUOTE]

Sealed is fine, 2 x every 6 months I believe is still the norm, but I haven't checked in a while.
 
[quote name='perdition(troy']Anybody have a package end up at Cincinnati? First time one of mine has gone there...[/QUOTE]

yea, they have a new address.
 
Oh ok, makes sense. I sent one last week, and then one this week and the last one went to the normal location, this one to cincinnati. Works for me though, packages will get there much faster now :)
 
Must say that I shipped Left 4 Dead 2 on Amazon and was returned as "Disc Damaged". The game had some scratches but it wasn't that bad. To make matters worse, they put a HUGE STICKER on the actual disk saying "DAMAGED" (on the side read by the console) which left sticky residue on the disk. This pissed me off like crazy. Good job Amazon fucking up my game!

Amazon is not perfect fanboys.
 
[quote name='oasisboy']Must say that I shipped Left 4 Dead 2 on Amazon and was returned as "Disc Damaged". The game had some scratches but it wasn't that bad. To make matters worse, they put a HUGE STICKER on the actual disk saying "DAMAGED" (on the side read by the console) which left sticky residue on the disk. This pissed me off like crazy. Good job Amazon fucking up my game!

Amazon is not perfect fanboys.[/QUOTE]
You didn't send your game to Amazon. You sent it to Noram.

:roll:
 
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