How to check a used phone is a question you can answer before the meetup: ask for the IMEI number, device origin and battery health, then at the meetup verify the serial number, screen, charging and camera performance. A buyer who prepares a short checklist in advance spots hidden flaws faster and finds it easier to decide whether to close the deal at all.
This checklist is written for people in Slovenia who meet a seller in Ljubljana, Maribor, Celje or anywhere else and have fifteen minutes for the inspection. Many readers open it on their phone, in the middle of a café or in front of a shopping centre entrance. That's why the steps are short and can be done without a laptop.
The rules for used devices in Slovenia are fairly simple as long as it's a deal between two private individuals. In that case, the same protection as when buying in a store doesn't apply, so proof of how the deal went is more important than the price itself. Below are first the questions for the seller, then a step-by-step inspection, a table of common issues, and finally how to close the deal without complications.
What to ask the seller before the meetup
Your first message should contain three requests: a photo of the device settings screen, the IMEI number and a short description of why they're selling the phone. Anyone who dodges the question and only sends screenshots from the listing probably doesn't have the device with them. On EX & GO, the seller's history and ratings are visible on the listing, so check whether the account is old and whether they've had other deals. You can read the rules on posting and conduct in the platform rules at /sl/rules.
Questions to ask in writing
Written answers are proof if it later turns out the device was different from what was stated. Ask:
- Was the device bought in Slovenia or imported, and has it ever been repaired?
- Is it locked to a carrier or can it be used freely with any SIM card?
- How old is the battery and what percentage of capacity does it show in settings?
- Has the device ever been in contact with water, or has any component been replaced?
- Which operating system is installed, and are there any modifications such as root or jailbreak?
- Are the original receipt, packaging and charger included?
If the seller doesn't want to send the IMEI number before the inspection, that's not necessarily a sign of fraud, as the number is sensitive information. In that case, suggest that you check it together at the meetup, live, in the device settings.
Which documents help
A private individual in Slovenia is not required to issue a receipt for a used device they bought for their own use. Still, it's helpful if they have the original receipt or proof of purchase, as it shows the date and place of purchase. If there's no receipt, ask the seller to write in the message that they're selling the device as used and without warranty. Save that message. When buying from a business, different logic applies, as a receipt must be issued, so before the deal find out whether it's a private or business sale.
Step-by-step device inspection
At the meetup, take ten to fifteen minutes and follow the order from the outside in. If any step fails, stop and discuss the price or walk away before the money changes hands. The order matters because some flaws only show up under certain settings.
- Compare the IMEI or serial number in the settings with the label on the packaging and the record on the receipt. If the numbers don't match, don't buy the device.
- Check whether the device is unlocked and whether the manufacturer's account lock is disabled in settings, for example on Apple or Google. Without this, the device can't be used normally.
- Look at the screen on a white and black background. Look for lines, spots, pressure marks and discoloration at the edges.
- Test the keyboard, speaker sound and microphone with a short recording or call.
- Check both cameras, including the front one, and record a short video. See if the image is sharp and if there's dust in the lens.
- Plug in the charger and see if the device charges and if the connector doesn't wiggle. Also check wireless charging if the device supports it.
- Check the battery health in settings and compare it with what the seller stated in the message.
- Test the SIM card, mobile network and Wi-Fi connection. Make a short call or check data transfer.
- Check whether the buttons, fingerprint or face sensor work, and whether the device starts normally after a restart.
- Finally, check water resistance if the device claims it. Don't submerge the device, as you risk damage and losing the chance to negotiate.
If a doubt arises during the inspection, write it in a message and ask the seller for written confirmation. A written agreement is easier to prove than a verbal one on the street.
What to check before the deal and where hidden flaws lurk
The most common hidden flaws relate to the battery, screen and previous use. The battery wears out with age, so its condition should be compared with the device's age. The screen is often replaced, which isn't necessarily bad, but the buyer must be informed. Previous use leaves traces in the form of installed apps, profiles and locked accounts.
The table below lists the main checks, how to verify them and the signs that indicate a problem. The table is meant to be used on your phone during the inspection.
| What to check | How to check | What a problem looks like |
|---|---|---|
| IMEI and serial number | Compare settings with label and receipt | Numbers don't match or label is missing |
| Account lock | Review settings for manufacturer account | Device asks for a password the seller doesn't know |
| Screen | White and black background, check edges | Lines, spots, discoloration, touch not working everywhere |
| Battery | Battery health settings, compare with message | Deviation from stated condition, fast draining |
| Charging | Plug in charger and test connector | Charging stops when cable is moved |
| Camera and sound | Short recording, call, sound playback | Blurry image, dust in lens, quiet speaker |
| Network | SIM card, Wi-Fi, data transfer | No signal, connection drops or repeats |
| Water resistance | Check seals and signs of case opening | Visible scratches on edges, replaced cover |
When buying from a business, the terms differ from a private sale, so it's worth checking who the seller is and what obligations they have. If you're deciding between several listings, use the comparison of prices and device condition from different sellers used phones.
How to buy a used phone safely and close the deal
A safe purchase means the money changes hands only after all steps are completed and you have proof of the deal. It's best to meet in a public place, such as a shopping centre or petrol station, and to complete the deal during the day. Avoid paying in advance and transfers to foreign accounts, as you then lose the chance to see the device before paying.
For payment, cash on delivery is the safest, as the deal is closed immediately. If the seller insists on a transfer, do it only after the inspection and after you've received a receipt. In the message before the meetup, write down the price, device condition and any included accessories, such as a charger or case. That message remains as proof of the agreement.
After the purchase, save the receipt, messages and a photo of the serial number. If it turns out the device doesn't work as agreed, contact the seller first. If the deal takes place through the platform, check where to report the issue and which rules apply, as described in support at /sl/support. In a private sale in Slovenia, enforcing claims depends on what was agreed and proven, so a written agreement is important.
If you're buying a device you'll use for business, consider buying from a company where a receipt is issued and the terms are clear. Compare offers and check whether the device is still under warranty used phones in Ljubljana.
Frequently asked questions about buying a used phone
How do I check if the phone is stolen?
Before the meetup, ask the seller for the IMEI number and compare it with the number in the device settings. In Slovenia, you can also check with your carrier whether the device is reported lost or stolen. If the numbers don't match or the seller refuses to show the settings, don't proceed. Save a photo of the serial number and the messages as proof of your conversation.
What should I do if the seller won't issue a receipt?
A private individual in Slovenia is usually not required to issue a receipt for a used device they used themselves. Still, ask them to state in writing that they are selling it as used and without warranty, and to note its condition and any defects. Keep that message. If it's a business, a receipt must be issued, so check before the deal who the seller is and what obligations they have.
Is it worth buying a phone with a replaced screen?
A replaced screen isn't necessarily bad if a quality part was installed and the seller disclosed it in advance. Check touch response across the entire surface, colors on white and black backgrounds, and the light sensor. If you notice lines, spots or dead zones, negotiate a lower price or walk away. Also ask when and where the repair was done.
How do I check battery health before buying?
In the device settings, find the battery health information and compare it with what the seller stated in their message. Ask if the battery has ever been replaced and when. During the inspection, check that the device charges and that the percentage increases while charging. If the health is much lower than stated or the device drains quickly during use, factor in the cost of a possible replacement.
Your next step
Before you head to the inspection, save this list on your phone and ask the seller questions about origin, battery and account lock in your message. At the meetup, follow the steps in order and take enough time. If any answer doesn't add up, simply walk away and look for another listing. Use the comparison of offers and check the seller's history on the platform where the deal can be proven.