Getting started with your refurbished device

Setting up your refurbished device is no different from setting up a brand-new one. Simply turn it on and follow the prompts on the screen.

Pro tip: Once your device is set up, download the Back Market app and use our diagnostics feature to test your device. Go to “Account” > “Start diagnostics”.

We’ve collected the best guides from around the internet to help you get started.

Set up your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch (Apple)

Transfer data from your previous Apple device (Apple)

Move from Android to iPhone (Apple)

Transfer content to a new Galaxy with Smart Switch (Samsung UK)

Set up your Pixel phone (Google)

Transfer from iPhone to Pixel (Google)

Transfer from Android to Pixel (Google)

Set up your Mac (Apple)

Set up a new Windows PC (Microsoft)

Set up your Galaxy Tab A (Samsung UK)

Set up your Surface (Microsoft)

Set up an Amazon Fire tablet (Amazon UK)

No. Back Market devices don’t come with a SIM card. Choose the UK network that’s right for you and get set up with a SIM or eSIM.

Learn about SIM cards, dual SIMs, and eSIM

See if a prepaid (PAYG) SIM is right for you

It depends on whether your phone is locked or unlocked.

Locked phones can only be used with a specific network. Unlocked phones can be used with any compatible UK network. Just insert the SIM (or activate an eSIM) and you’re all set.

At Back Market, all our phones are labelled as locked or unlocked. You’ll see this in the product title on each listing.

Learn more about the difference between locked and unlocked

Troubleshoot if your unlocked phone won’t work with your network

Check if your phone will work with your network

Some UK networks may require your device’s IMEI to be registered before it connects (common with certain plans/MVNOs). Log in to your network account on their website/app and follow their steps to add your device. You can also visit a store for help.

Learn how to find your IMEI number

Troubleshoot if your eSIM isn’t working

Double‑check by entering your IMEI in your network’s “bring your own device” (compatibility) checker. Learn how to find your IMEI number

If you’ve ordered your phone and it isn’t compatible, we’re sorry for the inconvenience. Please log in to your Back Market account > “Orders” > “Get help”. We’ll respond within 1 business day — this is a priority for us.

Log in to your Back Market account

Don’t worry — this can happen if the phone was originally sold by another network. It shouldn’t affect your ability to use it as long as it’s truly network‑unlocked and compatible with your UK network.