Xiaomi Preparation for Sale: Step-by-step instructions from an expert

Selling a Xiaomi smartphone is not only an opportunity to make money on an old device, but also a responsible process that requires attention to detail. Many users miss critical points, from incomplete deletion of personal data to ignoring verification. IMEI, This article will help you avoid typical mistakes and prepare your phone so that the transaction goes smoothly and you get the maximum benefit.

Xiaomi devices feature close integration with ecosystem MIUI A simple factory reset is not enough: you need to log out of your Mi Account correctly, untie the device from Find Device, and even take into account the nuances of unlocking the bootloader, if it was done. We will discuss every stage of preparation, from technical aspects to legal subtleties that are often ignored.

1. Data backup: what to save and how

The first step before any manipulation of the phone is to back up, and even if you plan to transfer data to a new device later, you better be safe. Xiaomi has built-in backup tools, but they're not always reliable.

Settings menu → The phone. → Backup is available with Local Backup option. It saves:

• 📱 Contacts and call log
• 📸 Photos and videos (only miniatures, originals will have to be copied manually)
• 📝 Communications (SMS/MMS)
• 🎵 Application settings (but not the applications themselves)

However, this method does not save data from messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram) or games, and they will require separate backups:

• 💬 WhatsApp: Settings → chat → Backup (save in Google Drive)
• 🎮 Use Google Play Games or Game Center accounts
• 📁 Files: copy folders DCIM, Downloads and Pictures on PC via MTP-protocol

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If you have Xiaomi with an unlocked bootloader, make a backup partition EFS through TWRP — it will save IMEI failed-dump.

⚠️ Warning: Don't rely on Mi Cloud cloud services to store a single copy of data. In 2023, users faced loss of access to accounts due to blocking on suspicion of fraud. Always duplicate important information on a physical medium.

2. Checking the condition of the phone: diagnosis before sale

Xiaomi customers often check the device for hidden defects, so it’s best to identify them beforehand.

Type in the phone app code ##4636##, and it will open the test menu.

• 🔋 Battery Information: If the battery is below 80%, the battery needs to be replaced
• 📶 The work of sensors: gyroscope, accelerometer, proximity sensor
• 🔊 Speakers and microphone (use Audio test)

For a deep check, use the Mi Check app (available from the Mi App Store).

Pay special attention to the verification IMEI: If it's changed or missing, the phone can be locked by the operator. IMEI You can use the command *#06# or in the settings About the phone → General information. Check it against the number under the battery (if the case is removable) or on the box.

3. Exit from Mi Account and uncoupling of the device

One of the most critical stages is the correct exit from the Mi Account. If this is not done, the new owner will not be able to use the phone: it will be blocked by Mi Cloud Lock. MIUI 12 and newer:

For MIUI 12+:

1. Go to Settings. → Mi Account
2. Tap the avatar. → Exit
3. Enter the password and confirm the exit
4. Back to Settings → Memory. → Clear the data and select Delete account data

For older versions of MIUI:

1. Go to Settings. → Additionally. → Reset
2. Select Delete your Mi Account
3. Confirm the action with a password

Once you exit, check the status of your device on i.mi.com in the Find Device section. The phone should disappear from the list of associated devices. If that doesn't happen, repeat the procedure or reset your phone via Fastboot.

⚠️ Warning: On devices with unlocked bootloader (Bootloader Unlocked) after reset may appear warning about unofficial software. This is not a lock, but the buyer should be warned in advance - some are afraid of such messages.

4. Reset to factory settings: the right algorithm

A simple reset via the settings menu doesn’t always completely clear the data. Xiaomi recommends a combined approach:

Method 1: Through settings (for most users):

1. Settings → About the phone → Resetting settings
2. Choose to erase all data
3. Activate the option to Clear internal memory (if available)
4. Confirm the reset

Method 2: Through Recovery (to clean it completely):

1. Turn off the phone.
2. Press Volume Up + Power before the Mi logo appears
3. Choose Wipe Data → Wipe All Data
4. Confirm the action and restart.

For devices with MIUI 14 and later after the reset, you may need to re-assign to your Mi Account to unlock. That's OK - just log in and log out again right away.

Delete all Google accounts|Disable Find My Device|Get out. SIM and SD-map|Charge your phone at least 50 times%-->

5. Checking the legal purity of the phone

Few people think about the legal aspects of selling a phone, but it can save you from problems.

• 📄 Availability of a check or warranty card (if the phone is on the warranty, check with the buyer whether he is ready to issue a re-issuance)
• 🔍 Stolen Device Status: Use services like SNDeeP or IMEI.info
• 📱 Operator binding: If the phone is purchased on credit or on contract, make sure it is not blacklisted (check via *#06# and operator website)

Second, prepare documents for transfer:

• 📝 Act of sale (can be made in a simple written form with the indication of the IMEI, modelling)
• 📋 Copy of the passport (at the request of the buyer)
• 📦 Box and equipment (charger, cable, documentation)

If you sell your phone through Avito or Yula, use their built-in tools to make a deal - this gives additional guarantees to both parties.Remember: when transferring money in cash, demand a receipt.

6. Optimization of appearance and configuration

The first impression of the buyer is formed by the appearance of the phone, and even if the device is completely functional, scuffling or dirt can reduce its cost on the phone. 10-15%. Do cosmetic repairs:

• 🧼 Clean the body with an alcohol napkin (do not use abrasives!)
• 🔧 Replace the protective glass if it is cracked (cost: 200-500₽)
• 🎨 For plastic cases (Redmi Note series), you can use polymer to restore shine.
• 🔋 If the battery is swelling, replace it (this is a safety critical moment)

Check the package. The standard set for Xiaomi includes:

• 📱 Phone.
• 🔌 Charger (original, marked with marking) MDY-11-ED or similar)
• 🔗 Type-C cable (at least 1 meter long)
• 📄 Documentation (guarantee card, instruction)
• 🎧 Headphones (if included)

The lack of an original charger could reduce the price of the 500-1000₽. If you lost the box, you can order a replacement on AliExpress (search for "Xiaomi [model] box").

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A clean phone with a full set is sold on 15-20% more expensive than a device with scuffs and without a box.

7. Determination of market price and preparation of announcement

Pricing is the key to a successful sale. Use multifactor analysis:

Use:

• 📊 Services like Avito (filter on "sold" ads)
• 📈 Cian or Yula for regional analysis
• 🌍 International platforms (eBay, Swappa) for rare models

In the preparation of the announcement:

• 📸 Add in. 8-10 Photo: front/back case, screen turned on, IMEI, configuration
• 📝 Specify: model, condition, year of purchase, reason for sale, warranty
• 🚫 Avoid phrases like “no bargaining” – this reduces the number of responses

8.Secure transfer of the phone to the buyer

The last step is meeting the customer, and it's important to balance trust and caution.

1. Arrange for a meeting in a crowded place (bank branch, communication salon)
2. Before the phone is transferred:

Make a receipt in two copies with the indication:

• IMEI phone
• Passport data of the parties
• Amounts and dates of transfer
• Hand over the phone only after receiving the money (check the bills for authenticity)

If you sell through a secure message board (such as Avito Protection), follow their instructions. Do not agree to prepayment or transfers to third-party cards - these are frequent fraud schemes.

⚠️ Note: When selling Xiaomi phones with NFC Customers often check contactless payment to ensure that the Mi Pay feature is disabled and card data is removed from Google Pay/Mi Wallet.

FAQ: Frequent Questions About Selling Xiaomi