Grading Your Own Stock: A Practical Guide to A–E and BER Classification

Why Consistent Grading Matters

A buyer cannot price what they cannot assess. When a stocklist arrives with vague descriptions — 'good condition', 'slightly used', 'mixed' — the buyer has to assume the worst to protect their margin. Accurate, consistent grading using industry-standard criteria removes that uncertainty and leads directly to better pricing for the seller.

The Standard A–E and BER Scale

• Grade A — Fully working. No visible scratches on screen when lit. Minor marks on frame or rear only under close inspection. All functions tested and operational.
• Grade B — Fully working. Light visible scratches on screen under bright light. Cosmetic marks on frame. No cracks. All functions operational.
• Grade C — Fully working. Clear scratches on screen visible in normal lighting. Possible small crack on rear glass. Frame may have dents. All functions operational.
• Grade D — Working or partially working. Significant cosmetic damage. Screen may have hairline cracks. Some functions may be impaired (e.g. camera, button).
• Grade E / Faulty — Non-working or severely damaged. Broken screen, major faults, significant structural damage.
• BER — Beyond Economic Repair. No viable refurbishment route. Priced on parts recovery value only.

Common Grading Mistakes

Over-grading is the most common issue — and it leads to price renegotiation on delivery, which damages trust and delays payment. When in doubt, grade down. A buyer who receives better-than-expected stock will reward you with faster future pricing. A buyer who receives worse-than-declared stock will apply deductions and become cautious on future lots.

Handling Unknown Faults

If you have not tested a device, say so. 'Untested — possible faults' is a legitimate declaration. Buyers will price accordingly, but they will not penalise you the same way they would for undisclosed faults discovered on arrival.