What is an ESN, IMEI and/or MEID?

An ESN, IMEI and MEID are all terms which refer to mobile devices that help to uniquely identify them. Think of them as a serial number which indicates that the device is able to connect to a mobile network.

An ESN is an Electronic Serial Number which is unique to your device and used to identify your device on CDMA networks such as Verizon and Sprint

An IMEI is an International Mobile Equipment Identity number which is unique to your device and used to identify your device on GSM networks such as AT&T and T-Mobile.

An MEID is a Mobile Equipment ID which began to replace the ESN in the late 2000's. 

These terms are important when it comes to selling your device because they determine if your device is clear for activation on your respective mobile network. If they are NOT CLEAR, we cannot purchase your device and you will be unable to be paid.

An ESN, MEID, or IMEI may NOT BE clear for activation due to the following reasons:

• the device is still "active" on your account with the carrier
• the device has an outstanding balance
• the device has been reported lost or stolen

If your device is NOT CLEAR for activation, we will notify you via email with instructions on how to clear it. If we do not hear back from you within 3 days, we will send you another offer with a lower value for your device in "parts only" condition since it cannot be used on your network as a functioning device. You will have 5 days to accept or reject this revised offer.

In order to check if your ESN or IMEI is clear for activation, you can call your carrier directly by pressing 611 on your device or using the 800 numbers below:

• AT&T: 1-800-331-0500
• Verizon: 1-800-922-0204 or online using the Verizon Bring Your Own Device check
• Sprint: 1-888-211-4727
• T-Mobile: [phone] or online using the T-Mobile IMEI STATUS CHECK 

When you contact your network, they may ask you for your ESN, IMEI or MEID which will be referenced in the email we send you if we already have your device or you can find it by typing *#06# into your device if you haven't mailed it in yet and the number will appear on your screen. 

PLEASE NOTE: We are unable to purchase any devices which are reported lost or stolen so you will not receive a revised offer for devices with this status.