If you’re looking to upgrade your iPhone in Canada, the idea of getting a few hundred dollars off a new device probably sounds pretty nice, but figuring out whether to trade in at an Apple Store, mail it in, or shop around with a third party can be confusing—especially when values differ by hundreds. This guide walks you through each option so you can decide where your old device is worth the most.
Apple Trade-In credit range for iPhone in Canada: $50–$955 CAD · Apple Trade-In credit range for Apple Watch in Canada: $40–$375 CAD · Apple Trade-In partner in Canada (as of 2025): Likewize
Quick snapshot
- Apple Trade-In is available in Canada both in-store and online (Apple Canada official trade-in page)
- Trade-in values vary by device condition, model, and age (Apple Canada SMB Trade In) (Apple Canada official trade-in page)
- Best Buy Canada offers trade-in for Apple devices (Best Buy Canada Apple Trade-In page)
- Exact trade-in value for future iPhone models (e.g., iPhone 17) is not yet known
- Whether Apple will continue using Likewize as its trade-in partner in the long term
- Whether Apple will extend the temporary trade-in increase beyond June 2025
- Apple temporarily increased iPhone trade-in values in Canada through June 18, 2025 (MacRumors Apple Trade-In Guide)
- Apple may introduce new trade-in promotions for the iPhone 17 launch
- Third-party buyback services continue to compete for Canadian customers
The following table summarizes the key trade-in values and partners for Apple devices in Canada.
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Apple Trade-In credit range (iPhone, Canada) | $50–$955 CAD (Apple Canada SMB Trade In) |
| Apple Trade-In credit range (Apple Watch, Canada) | $40–$375 CAD (Apple Canada SMB Trade In) |
| Apple Trade-In partner in Canada | Likewize (as of 2025) |
| Best Buy Canada Trade-In | Gift card for working Apple devices (Best Buy Canada Apple Trade-In) |
| US Apple Trade-In max for iPhone 16 Pro Max | Up to $685 USD vs Canada’s $985 CAD (Apple US Trade In) |
| Best Buy max gift card for qualifying iPhone | Up to $1,125 CAD (Best Buy Canada Apple Trade-In) |
| Jump+ iPhone 13 trade-in value | $699 CAD (Jump+ Apple Premium Partner) |
Can you do Apple trade-in in-store Canada?
Yes, Apple Trade-In is available at all Apple retail stores across Canada for iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches (Apple Canada official trade-in page). In-store trade-in gives you an immediate credit toward a new device, and the estimate can be adjusted after the Apple Specialist inspects the device (Apple Canada SMB Trade In).
How to trade in at an Apple Store in Canada
- Bring your device, a valid government-issued photo ID, and any accessories (though Apple will recycle non-eligible devices for free).
- An Apple Specialist will inspect the device and confirm the trade-in value.
- If you accept, the credit is applied instantly to your new purchase.
Apple requires valid government-issued photo ID for in-store trade-ins (Studocu Apple Canada Terms). Note that sales tax is assessed on the full value of the new device before the trade-in credit is applied in Canada (Studocu Apple Canada Terms).
What to bring for an in-store trade-in
- The device (backed up and ready to erase).
- Government-issued photo ID (driver’s licence, passport, etc.).
- Any charging cables or accessories you want to include (though not required).
You can check your device model under Settings > General > About (Apple Canada SMB Trade In).
For most Canadians, in-store trade-in is the fastest route to a discount — you walk out with a new device and the trade-in credit applied immediately. The trade-off: you might leave $100–$200 on the table compared to selling privately, but you skip the hassle of listing and shipping.
What is the Apple trade-in value for my device in Canada?
Apple’s trade-in estimates vary by model, condition, and age. The online calculator at Apple Canada’s trade-in page provides an instant estimate. For example, an iPhone 16 Pro Max in good condition can fetch up to $985 CAD — notably higher than the US maximum of $685 USD (Apple US Trade In).
Apple trade-in calculator Canada
Use Apple’s online tool to get a preliminary quote. The final value may differ after device inspection (Apple Canada SMB Trade In).
Factors affecting trade-in value: condition, model, age
- Model: Newer models command higher credits — iPhone 16 Pro Max tops out at $985 CAD, while older models like iPhone 11 may be worth $200–$300.
- Condition: No cracks, no liquid damage, functional battery. A cracked screen can reduce the offer significantly.
- Age: Phones older than 5 years often fall to the minimum $50 CAD.
Apple’s trade-in values are valid only when purchasing a new device (MacRumors Apple Trade-In Guide).
Apple’s trade-in credit is not cash — it’s a discount on your new purchase or an Apple Gift Card for online orders. If you want actual cash, third-party buyers like Decluttr or eBay are better bets, but they come with more risk.
The implication: Apple’s system prioritizes convenience over maximum payout, so decide based on your need for speed versus cash.
Who pays the most for Apple trade-in?
The answer depends on whether you prioritize speed or cash. Apple Trade-In is convenient but may not yield the highest dollar amount. Best Buy Canada, for example, offered up to $1,125 CAD for qualifying iPhones as a gift card (Best Buy Canada Apple Trade-In). Jump+, an Apple Premium Partner, quoted $699 CAD for an iPhone 13 (Jump+ Apple Premium Partner).
Comparing Apple Trade-In vs Best Buy Trade-In vs Costco Trade-In
- Apple: Immediate credit, in-store or online, max $985 CAD for iPhone 16 Pro Max.
- Best Buy Canada: Gift card up to $1,125 CAD for iPhone; also trade-in for MacBooks up to $1,200 (Best Buy Canada Apple Trade-In). Requires manuals and packaging for best value.
- Costco: Offers trade-in through a partner; values are similar to Best Buy but vary by location.
Best Buy excludes certain stores in Kelowna BC, Winnipeg MB, and Sudbury QC due to municipal by-laws (Best Buy Canada Apple Trade-In).
Independent resale platforms (e.g., eBay, Facebook Marketplace) – risks and rewards
- Rewards: You can often get 20–40% more than trade-in offers. For example, Decluttr once offered $517 for an iPhone X vs Apple’s $349–$450 (MacRumors Apple Trade-In Guide).
- Risks: Scams, chargebacks, shipping damage, and no guarantee of sale. Takes time and effort.
The pattern: Trade-in programs pay less because they bundle convenience and risk. If you have a low-risk device and a few hours, selling independently can net you an extra $100–$200.
Do I need to book store appointment for iPhone trade-in?
Apple recommends booking a Genius Bar or trade-in appointment online before visiting (Apple Canada SMB Trade In). Walk-ins are accepted but may involve longer wait times.
How to book an Apple Store appointment for trade-in in Canada
- Go to Apple Store retail page (Canada).
- Select your preferred store and choose “Trade-In” or “Genius Bar” as the service.
- Pick a date and time — it’s free.
Walk-in trade-in policy at Apple Stores Canada
- Walk-ins are generally welcome, but you may wait 15–45 minutes depending on store traffic.
- Appointments guarantee a dedicated staff member.
Why this matters: Booking ahead saves time and ensures you don’t have to leave the device overnight. In peak periods (new iPhone launches), walk-ins are strongly discouraged.
Does Apple trade internationally?
Apple Trade-In is generally limited to the country where the device was purchased. Apple’s Global Trade Compliance outlines restrictions (Apple Legal – Global Trade Compliance). Trade-in credits are issued in local currency and are not transferable across borders.
Can I trade in a device bought outside Canada?
- Apple Canada typically only accepts devices bought in Canada.
- If you buy an iPhone abroad, you must trade it in at an Apple Store in that country.
International trade-in restrictions
- Trade-in credits are in CAD for Canada, USD for the US, etc.
- You cannot, for example, trade in a US iPhone at a Canadian Apple Store for credit.
The trade-off: Cross-border shoppers should factor this in — buying an iPhone in the US might save on price, but you lose the option to trade it in Canada later.
Pros & Cons of Apple Trade-In in Canada
Upsides
- Instant credit toward a new device — no waiting for cash.
- Free recycling for non-eligible devices.
- No shipping costs for in-store trade-ins.
- Backed by Apple’s warranty and support.
Downsides
- Trade-in value is usually lower than private sale (by $100–$300).
- Only valid with a new purchase; no cash payout.
- Sales tax charged on full price before credit.
- In-store inspection may reduce estimate if condition differs.
Step-by-step: How to trade in your Apple device in Canada
- Back up your data — iCloud or computer.
- Check your device model under Settings > General > About (Apple Canada SMB Trade In).
- Get an estimate — use Apple’s online trade-in calculator or visit a store.
- Choose how to trade in:
- Online: Mail-in kit arrives in 2–3 business days. Ship device, get credit after inspection.
- In-store: Book an appointment, bring ID and device, get instant credit.
- Erase all content and settings (Find My must be off).
- Remove SIM card if you plan to keep it.
- Wait for inspection — Apple will email you the final value. Accept or decline.
- If accepted: Credit applied to new purchase or Apple Gift Card. If declined, device is returned for free.
Third-party options like Best Buy Canada follow a similar process but issue a gift card. Jump+ (Jump+ Apple Premium Partner) allows mail-in or in-store drop-off.
Quotes from the trade-in community
Trade in your eligible device for credit toward a new one, or recycle it for free. It’s good for you and the planet.
— Apple Canada (official trade-in page)
We accept working devices in good condition and issue a Best Buy gift card. To get the best value, bring manuals, accessories, and packaging.
If you’re not in a rush, selling on Facebook Marketplace or Kijiji can net you 20-30% more than trade-in. Just be careful with scammers.
— User comment on Reddit r/apple
For a comparison of how Apple’s trade-in program works in another country, check out this Apple Trade In Ireland guide for detailed values and process.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Apple trade-in take in Canada?
Online trade-in: 2–3 business days for the kit, then 1–2 business days after delivery for inspection. In-store: same day.
Can I trade in an iPhone with a cracked screen?
Yes, but the value will be reduced. Apple may still accept it, or recycle it for free if the damage is severe.
What happens if I disagree with the trade-in value?
You can decline the offer and have the device returned to you for free (Apple Canada SMB Trade In).
Do I need to reset my iPhone before trading it in?
Yes. Back up your data, then go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings. Turn off Find My.
Can I trade in multiple devices at once at Apple Store Canada?
Yes, Apple accepts multiple trade-ins per transaction. Each device is evaluated separately.
Is Apple trade-in available in Quebec?
Yes, all Apple Stores in Quebec participate, including Montreal and Quebec City.
What payment methods can I use for the trade-in credit?
In-store: credit applied to purchase. Online: credit issued as Apple Gift Card or applied to payment method.
For Canadian shoppers, the trade-in landscape offers a clear hierarchy: Apple for convenience, Best Buy for slightly higher gift cards, and private sales for maximum cash. If you’re upgrading this year, the temporary boost through June 2025 makes now a good time to trade. For Canadians planning to hold onto their iPhone 16 Pro Max until the next release, selling privately on Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace could net an extra $200–$300 — but only if you’re willing to deal with the hassle.
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