Value Books Japan Scam Warning
「"Beware of This Japanese Buyback Service: My 2DS Was Valued at $0 for No Reason"」
The moment I felt, “This is basically a scam...” was when I used a service called ValueBooks, a Japanese company offering trade-ins by mail.
I sent them a New Nintendo 2DS LL, which currently holds high resale value in the secondhand market. However, they assessed it at 0 yen, claiming there was “a serious defect with the cartridge slot that could lead to major malfunction.”
Because the item was valued at zero, I asked for it to be returned. But they told me it was not possible because they use a system called “Sokufuri” — which means immediate payment after appraisal, with no option for return.
After persistent negotiations, I finally managed to get my 2DS back. When I tested it, it worked perfectly. I even checked with Nintendo’s repair support, and they confirmed: “No repairs needed.”
In other words, the console was never broken. And yet — it was still valued at zero.
ValueBooks’ “Sokufuri” system means that once the appraisal is done, the transaction is automatically completedand returns are generally not allowed. I was lucky to get mine back after pushing hard, but most people would probably just give up and take the loss.
To dig deeper, I created a fake identity and contacted ValueBooks again using a different email address. I asked them if they had professional staff specialized in inspecting or repairing game consoles. Their answer? No, they don’t.
But then how can a regular appraiser judge whether a device has a “serious defect”?
Despite this, even expensive devices can be appraised as “defective” and marked down to 0 yen — and with Sokufuri, the deal is done instantly.
This system feels incredibly shady. Is it intentional? Honestly, it’s hard not to suspect so.
When I shared my experience on social media to warn others, ValueBooks sent me a takedown request — but never provided any explanation or counterargument.
What’s worse, when I inquired about other devices like the Nintendo Switch, they replied:
“If we confirm similar conditions, we may not be able to offer any price for those items either.”
In other words, even a Nintendo Switch could be marked down to 0 yen at the discretion of the appraiser.
With the upcoming launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, trade-ins of older models are expected to surge. If this kind of questionable appraisal continues, more people could fall victim. That’s why I’m sharing this as a warning.
If you're considering selling high-value electronics in Japan, please remember:
Avoid using “Sokufuri” at all costs when sending valuable items.
Record video or photo evidence of the device working before shipping.
Don’t give up if you get a bad appraisal — negotiate for a return.
What do you think?
Doesn't this system seem scammy to you?