Americans own a total of 396 million mobile devices — that’s more than 116 for every 100 people! From smartphones to classic flip phones, each has its unique identifier, the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number.
The IMEI number is like a phone’s fingerprint. It allows the device to connect to cellular networks, enabling calls, texts, and mobile data. This number is permanent and unchangeable, making it a critical identifier for every phone.
For cell phone store owners, keeping track of IMEI numbers is a daily necessity. But tracking them manually? That’s a hassle no one needs.
Instead, invest in IMEI tracking inventory management software with features specific to your business. We’ll highlight which features are a must-have for cell phone repair stores, and the top software providers to consider.
What Is IMEI Tracking?
An IMEI number consists of 15 digits, and every mobile device has a unique code — there are no duplicates. IMEI tracking uses these unique identifiers to monitor and manage the devices in your store.
For a cell phone store manager, IMEI tracking unlocks the ability to:
-
Monitor your new inventory. You can use inventory management software to track individual devices. Specialized software solutions have a dedicated IMEI field that lets you scan or manually enter it.
-
Track repairs. Does your cell phone store handle repairs? Instead of tracking devices by make and model, you can keep tabs on them using the IMEI, eliminating confusion.
-
Avoid purchasing lost or stolen devices. If a customer’s phone is lost or stolen, they can contact their carrier to have the device’s IMEI blocked. IMEI lookup tools also allow you to check if a specific number is blacklisted, helping you avoid the risk of purchasing and reselling stolen devices.
IMEI tracking is an integral part of your store’s daily operations. Whether you’re managing a small business or a larger operation that includes device repairs, you may need to track hundreds or even thousands of devices, each with its own number.
IMEI Tracking in Inventory Management Software: What To Look For
Are you exploring point of sale (POS) software for your cell phone repair store? While many systems include inventory management tools, they often lack the specialized features to track and manage IMEI numbers.
Before choosing a program, make sure it offers these essential IMEI tracking inventory management software capabilities.
1. Instant IMEI Lookup
Constantly switching to external tools to check IMEI numbers is a hassle. Why not simplify things? With POS systems that include built-in IMEI tracking, you can check devices right from your inventory manager. It’s faster, easier, and helps keep your store safe from fraud.
2. IMEI Tracking for Resale Inventory
With the right software, buying back a customer’s older device can be simple. By entering the IMEI number on the purchase receipt, you can ensure that the device’s unique identifier is added to your inventory management system immediately.
3. Sorting Inventory by IMEI
POS and inventory management software tailored for cell phone stores should allow you to sort devices by IMEI, brand, model, and serial number. This makes locating a specific device in your store quicker and more efficient.
Top Phone Software Providers with IMEI Tracking Features
With so many POS and inventory management solutions available, it’s easy to end up with one that falls short of your needs. To help you choose, here are three of the top IMEI-tracking inventory management software options available:
1. CellSmart POS
CellSmart POS is a versatile point of sale software designed for cell phone stores. Whether your business specializes in selling new devices, buying used ones, or handling repairs, it offers comprehensive inventory and repair tracking features with built-in IMEI tracking.
With CellSmart, you can even perform IMEI checks within the platform, simplifying your operations and making sure you avoid dealing with blacklisted devices.
Customer reviews:
“I have been using CellSmart POS for the past four years now, and it has probably been one of my best investments ever.” — Mark P.
“Repair tracking module is the best feature in the software.” — Abdul A.
2. ERP Gold
ERP Gold is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) tool that combines POS and inventory tracking capabilities. It is developed for cell phone retailers and wholesalers and includes a specialized IMEI-tracking inventory management software suite.
With ERP Gold, you can track and manage IMEI devices in a wholesale inventory setting. The software also offers features to maintain a separate list for devices under repair, and allows you to locate a specific device quickly within your store or warehouse.
Customer reviews
“Easy to use for small business, good response from the support team. Now we have all our things in one system.” — Jerry J.
“The serialized inventory management software solution for inventory is perfect and easy to use. It is perfect for our workflow needs, accounting, inventory, and order processing.” — Vincent B.
3. CellStore
CellStore is a tailored inventory management and POS solution built for cell phone retail stores and repair centers. One of its key features is the dedicated IMEI and serial number manager, which consolidates all devices in your inventory into a single, searchable list for easy management.
CellStore also lets you view and maintain a complete history for each device, including details of any repairs or maintenance performed on a specific IMEI.
Customer reviews
“The software is so easy to use, can be customized for your individual needs, [and] gives a great overview of all aspects of what is happening in your business.” — Lori A.
“I love the ability to track everything and keep up with all of our needs in one place instead of having three or four programs to keep up with.” — Barbara E.
IMEI Inventory Management Tracking With CellSmart POS
No matter the size of your cell phone store, IMEI tracking inventory management software has everything you need to simplify your day-to-day operations. Instant lookups reduce the risk of fraud while buying used phones from customers, whereas IMEI sorting features make managing the inventory a simple task. You can even use IMEI tracking features to sort and organize devices in your repair shop more quickly. Save time and keep devices moving, whether you’re selling, buying, or repairing them!
Are you ready to ditch the hassle and improve your store’s efficiency? Request a demo today and transform how you manage your inventory with CellSmart POS and its IMEI tracking capabilities.
