1. TEST YOUR LOCATION
Make sure you can receive cell phone signals in the area you would most likely be using your cell phone. Have your friends with cell phones go to the location and see if the signal is strong and clear. Write down the companies that have the strongest signals to your preferred location.
2. VERIFY THE "ESN" NUMBER
The ESN (Electronic Serial Number) is used to identify the phone AND to whom the usage minutes are billed. You do not want someone's used cell phone that is stolen or has an unpaid balance. When you call the network, explain you purchased a used phone, they will clear the last owner's ESN and register you as the new user of that phone.
NOTE: Some used phones not eligible for direct carrier activation but can be usable with a prepaid access card. If you wish to reactivate a used cell phone through a carrier, verify suitability by confirming the ESN (electronic serial number) with your chosen carrier FIRST.
3. DECIDE WHAT AREAS YOU WILL CALL
Decide what area you will generally be using your cell phone. Will it be National, Regional or just local? Why pay for nationwide service when you are only making local calls? Here's more information of the two common wireless technologies currently available in the United States.
4. LOCATE CARRIERS
To locate carriers and see what cell phones they work with, use our online carrier search engine.
5. MAKE YOUR PURCHASE
Buy the used phone of your choice then select the carrier or prepaid option best suited for your needs.
Why people buy Used Cell Phones?
- To replace your lost phone
You can activate the remainder of your existing contract on a used phone
If the used phone you purchase is locked to a carrier, make certain the phone matches your existing carrier - As parts for your existing phone and service
Component parts each cost as much as the full retail of a used phone - To Use Prepaid phone service
No monthly contractsPay only for what you use
Pay only for what you use
Limitations include lack of inbound call capability
Access when you really need - To Activate a Carrier Network Contract
Reactivate phone where applicable through established carrier networks - To Use as an Emergency Phone
911 is a FREE call from every cell phone
Requires no network service activation
Please check with your network carrier to ensure a phone can be reactivated by giving them the appropriate Electronic Serial Number.
