Why you should not throw away the box from a new smartphone: 3 good reasons

Many of us are happy to get rid of a bulky cardboard box right after unpacking a new phone so it doesn’t take up space. However, experts of Engadget strongly recommend not to do this. Here's why.

1. Rescue in theft or loss

On the side of the package, a unique IMEI code of the device is always indicated. If a smartphone is stolen or lost, this number will be the main argument for police and telecom operators to lock the device and identify it. When the phone itself is not on hand, the box remains the fastest and most reliable way to find out these numbers.

2. Guarantee refund

The rules for returning or exchanging equipment in stores often require a complete factory kit. The seller has the right to refuse the operation if you brought only a “naked” gadget without a native packaging, even if only a few days have passed since the purchase.

3. Profitable resale

According to a study by Consumer Reports, a smartphone sold in the original box with all the liners looks much more reliable in the eyes of the buyer. This allows you to sell the device faster and at a higher price.

What to do if there is no place to store cardboard?

No problem. IMEI can be found without a box: in the settings of the phone itself, through a cloud account (for example, Apple ID or Google account) or on the official website of the manufacturer by serial number.

But the simplest life hack from journalists: immediately after purchase, take a photo of the sticker with the code on the box or rewrite the numbers into secure notes on the phone.