IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is the 15-digit serial number assigned to every GSM-compatible handset. It uniquely identifies the device on cellular networks globally and is the primary reference number used in wholesale verification.
IMEI is used to verify:
- Blacklist status, whether the device has been reported lost, stolen, or unpaid (queried via GSMA database, CheckMEND).
- Carrier lock status, whether the device is locked to a specific carrier's network.
- Activation Lock / FMI, for iPhones, whether iCloud Find My iPhone is active.
- Warranty status, for Apple devices via GSX; for Samsung via Knox Configure; for others via OEM serial check.
- Country of origin / model number, the IMEI's TAC (Type Allocation Code, first 8 digits) reveals manufacturer and model variant.
You can find an IMEI by dialling *#06#, in Settings > About, on the SIM tray, or printed on the original retail box. Wholesale lots are typically delivered with a per-unit IMEI manifest spreadsheet that buyers verify before payment release.