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 the functionality of your device. Go to “Account” > “Start diagnostics”.
Jump to
How do I set up my device?
Does my order include a SIM card?
Will my device be compatible if I switch carriers?
I bought an unlocked device, but my SIM card isn’t recognized
The listing says my carrier is supported, but my carrier says it’s incompatible
My Android is supposed to be unlocked for my specific carrier, but it’s turning on with another carrier’s logo
How do I set up my device?
We searched the internet to find you the best guides for setting up your newest device.
Apple
Learn how to set up your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch via Apple
Learn how to move from Android to iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch via Apple
Learn how to transfer data from Pixel to iPhone via Wondershare
Samsung
See how to transfer from an old device to a new Galaxy via Samsung
Google Pixel
Learn how to set up your Pixel phone via Google Support
Learn how to transfer from an iPhone to a Pixel via Google Support
Learn how to transfer from an Android to a Pixel via Google Support
Other laptops and tablets
Check out CNET’s guide on setting up your Mac
Check out CNET’s guide on setting up your PC or laptop
Check out Samsung’s guide on setting up your Galaxy Tab A
Check out Microsoft’s guide on setting up your Surface
Check out TechSolutions’ guide on setting up your Amazon Fire tablet
Does my order include a SIM card?
No, Back Market devices don’t come with a SIM card. Just pick the carrier that’s best for you, and get set up with a SIM card.
Learn all about SIM cards, dual SIMs, and eSIM with our guide
See if a prepaid SIM card is right for your refurbished device
Will my device be compatible if I switch carriers?
It depends on whether your phone is locked or unlocked.
Locked phones can only be used with a specific carrier. Unlocked phones can be used with any network or carrier in the country where you purchased the phone. Just insert the SIM card into the phone, and you’re all set.
At Back Market, all our phones are labeled as locked or unlocked. You’ll see this listed in the title of the device on each product details page.
Learn more about the difference between locked and unlocked
Troubleshoot if you can't use your unlocked phone with your carrier
Check if your new phone will work with your carrier
I bought an unlocked device, but my SIM card isn’t recognized
If your carrier isn’t AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile, you’ll need to register your phone’s IMEI number with that carrier. Your carrier will then use your IMEI number to authorize your device to connect to its network.
To do so, just go to your carrier’s website to access your account and follow their registration instructions. You can also register your device at an in-store location, but you may be asked to pay a fee.
Learn how to find your IMEI number
Troubleshoot if your eSIM isn’t working
The listing says my carrier is supported, but my carrier says it’s incompatible
Check for yourself by entering your IMEI number in your carrier’s “BYOD” (bring your own device) checker. Learn how to find your IMEI number
If you’ve ordered your phone and it isn’t compatible, we apologize for the inconvenience. Please let us know by logging in to your Back Market account > “Orders” > “Get help”. We’ll get back to you within 1 business day — so sit tight, and know this is a priority for us.
Log in to your Back Market account
My Android is supposed to be unlocked for my specific carrier, but it’s turning on with another carrier’s logo
Don’t worry! This may happen if the phone was once locked to that carrier, but it shouldn’t affect your ability to use it with your own carrier.