Every Product sold through the Platform or through any affiliated Marketplace Platform must pass the Company's five-stage quality testing protocol before being assigned a cosmetic grade and listed for sale. This protocol is designed to meet or exceed the certification requirements of Back Market and Refurbed.
In the first stage, all prior owner data is securely erased using industry-standard methods compliant with applicable data protection requirements. In the second stage, a comprehensive hardware diagnostic is conducted using professional-grade testing software, covering the processor, RAM, storage, battery, display, camera, all ports and connectors, wireless modules (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and cellular where applicable), biometric sensors (Touch ID, Face ID), and all physical controls. Any component that fails is either replaced or the device is removed from sale pending investigation. In the third stage, the operating system is freshly reinstalled or restored to factory settings and updated to the latest compatible firmware. In the fourth stage, a cosmetic inspection is carried out under standardised lighting and a cosmetic grade is assigned. In the fifth and final stage, a Quality Certification is issued for the specific unit, referencing its serial number, the tests passed, and the grade assigned; this certificate is available to the Consumer on request.
Cosmetic Grading
The cosmetic grade reflects the visual condition of the device only and has no bearing on functional performance or warranty coverage. All grades carry identical statutory and Commercial Warranty entitlements.
Grade A — Excellent Condition: the device shows no visible scratches, scuffs, dents, or marks under normal viewing conditions. The screen is free of scratches, dead pixels, and discolouration. Grade B — Good Condition: the device may show light scratches or minor scuffs visible under close inspection, but there are no significant dents, deep scratches, or structural damage, and the screen functions perfectly.
Grade C — Acceptable Condition: the device shows more visible cosmetic wear including moderate scratches or light dents on the casing. The screen remains fully functional. Photographs of Grade C imperfections are provided in the Product listing and the price reflects the cosmetic condition. In all grades the device is fully functional and meets the Company's hardware performance standards.
Battery Health and Accessories
All batteries are tested and battery health is disclosed as a percentage in every Product listing. The Company's minimum threshold for sale is 80% original capacity, which corresponds to Apple's own service replacement standard. Where battery health falls below this threshold at the time of testing, the battery is replaced before listing. Normal degradation from Consumer use after delivery is not covered by warranty.
Each Product listing clearly states which accessories are included. Where listed accessories are absent from delivery, this constitutes a lack of conformity. Where a Product is listed as device only, no accessories are included and their absence is not a defect. The Company uses genuine Apple accessories where available; where compatible third-party accessories are used, this is stated in the listing.