Originally Posted by
mrploddy
https://119.sofmap.com/buying_service/?id=counter
Looks like there are a number of places in Tokyo that support buying - you'll need sufficient id eg drivers license / passport as they need photographic id / proof of address.
Few notes -
1) You'll need to reset / remove activation lock etc from the phone / factory reset.
2) When it's not Apple doing the buyback they'll be harsh on things like scratches and whether or not you have the box and all the accessories - be aware scratches / lack of box will cause valuation drop.
3) VERY IMPORTANT - whats your battery health ? Is it below 80% ? If so and you still have Apple care get a battery replacement done. Devices that are in "Battery service required" status will have a big drop in value. I had a apple watch that didn't realise was below 80% - sent it for valuation and there was a 30 - 40% drop in price. Thankfully was still under Apple care so got it back and replace it out and then re-evaluated.
If you don't have the box or the like you might find it's better to go via Apple as all they care about is the actual device and none of the accessories / box etc.
The phone is flawless, but my battery health is 'service required' and at 78% - so maybe it's best not to do the trade in and just sell it privately, or bite the bullet and get it at the Apple Store and pay the tax since the Apple Store does not adjust the value for battery health.
Editing to add - Japan Apple Store trade-in values are much lower than the USA. When I use the Japan website to calculate my cost, the phone (with local tax) is US$1,250 equivalent, while if I bought the phone in the USA and did the trade, it would cost me $1,173 with local tax included. Another option is to buy the phone at Bic Camera for $1,350 no tax, then do the trade-in when I get home and receive a US Apple Gift card for $320 to use towards my M4 Macbook Air.
Decisions, decisions.