Can I import refurbished or used phones into the US?

Often yes, but three things decide whether a lot clears and can be resold: the phones must be authorized for the US by the FCC, they must be genuine (CBP seizes counterfeit-branded devices), and they must be entered properly with duties paid. Used condition doesn't remove any of those checks.

1. FCC rules

Phones are radio frequency devices. Under 47 CFR 2.803, "No person may market a radio frequency device unless the radio frequency device is authorized pursuant to a valid FCC equipment authorization," and marketing includes selling, leasing or offering to sell. The same section says imported devices remain subject to the import rules in subpart K of Part 2, which is the basis for FCC Form 740 at the border.

What this means in practice:

• Stick to models that have an FCC authorization for the US market.
• Be careful with phones built for another region. A model sold abroad may not be the same as the US-authorized version, so check its FCC ID before you buy.
• Check the FCC ID on the device against the FCC database before you buy a lot.

If a lot includes phones that were modified during refurbishing, or models you can't match to a US authorization, ask an FCC attorney before you resell them.

2. CBP and counterfeits

CBP enforces trademarks that owners have recorded with it. A recorded mark gives CBP authority to detain and seize infringing goods. CBP news releases show it regularly seizes counterfeit Apple-branded phones, chargers and accessories at ports.

The risks for a used-phone lot:

• Counterfeit phones, or genuine phones with non-genuine parts or logos
• Third-party replacement screens or batteries carrying a brand mark
• Accessories in the box that are fakes

A genuine, repaired phone is a different case from a counterfeit. Keep repair records and supplier invoices so you can show what is in the lot if CBP asks.

3. Entry, classification and duties

• The shipment needs an entry, duties and fees at the rate for its tariff classification and country of origin. Find the HS code first (see our guide on HS codes) and confirm with a broker.
• Describe the goods honestly on the invoice: used or refurbished, quantity, model and value.
• The $800 de minimis exemption is suspended, so small lots are not duty-free. See our guide on de minimis.
• Ocean freight needs an Importer Security Filing. Phones contain lithium batteries, so ask your carrier or forwarder about battery shipping rules before you book.

4. Buyer-side checks

• Blacklist status. A phone reported lost or stolen can be unusable. See our guide on checking a used iPhone before buying a lot.
• Activation lock and carrier lock. Test a sample.
• Verify the supplier before you pay. See our guide on verifying a new overseas supplier.

Paying for the lot

Pay a supplier you've verified, from an account that keeps a record of what you paid. Shield gives resellers US business accounts, a business credit card and overseas supplier payments, with dollars or stablecoins. Where a supplier takes cards, you can pay by card, and where it doesn't, you can send a wire from your credit line. Owners can live outside the US, with a US company.

FAQ

Do refurbished phones need an FCC ID? Radio frequency devices must be authorized before they are marketed (47 CFR 2.803). Check that the model has a US FCC authorization.

Will CBP seize used phones? It seizes counterfeit goods bearing recorded trademarks. Genuine used phones are a different matter, but a mixed lot with fakes can be detained.

Do I pay duty on used phones? Duty depends on classification, origin and value, and used goods are not exempt by default. Ask a broker for your HS code.

Next step

To see how Shield helps electronics resellers pay suppliers, visit Shield cards for electronics.