An "ESN" is an Electronic Serial Number. An MEID ( M obile E quipment ID) and ESN uniquely identify a CDMA cellphone. In the 2005 time frame, the MEID began to replace the 32-bit ESN. An IMEI ( I nternational M obile E quipment I dentity) is unique number assigned to a GSM, UMTS or IDEN cellphones.

An ESN, IMEI or MEID may be active for the following reasons:

The device still holds an "Active" account status with the carrier

The account associated with the device has an outstanding balance

The device has been reported as lost or stolen

This number is tied to a carrier and helps record the activity and status of the device. Prior to our inspection, we will check to ensure that the ESN has been deactivated.

If the ESN is not clear for activation , we will notify you via email and hold the item for 5 days. To clear and active number, you must contact your wireless service provider and clear any issues that are causing your item's ESN to be active so that we can complete the evaluation process.After this hold period expires, we will issue a revised value for your phone in "parts only" condition. You will have another 5 days to decide if you would like to Accept or Decline the revised offer.

Helpful Hint - You may need this number as a reference. On many phones you can find your ESN, MEID or IMEI by typing in *#06# and your phone and the number will appear on your screen.

Verizon phones can now be checked through their "Activate Phone or Device" page. For other carriers you may choose their Chat function on their Customer Service page.