More Important Questions about Phone Rental

• Is it better to buy or rent the phones from you? There is no simple answer for this. If your rental period approaches 2 months, you would be better off buying the phone. Also, if you travel often, it makes sense not having to keep paying for shipping. Renting a phone is a good way to try out our phone and see if you like it. If you decide to keep the rental, you pay no rental fee. You simply forfeit the deposit on the phone. On the other hand, purchasing a phone ensures you will be acquiring an unused handset.
• How can I be sure the technology won't become obsolete in the future?
  This certainly won't occur in the near future. In fact, this is a relatively new technology in the US that many of the cellular service providers are quickly embracing. Sure, there will always be newer, smaller and "better" cell phones introduced in the future, but the underlying technology powering the service will remain the same. Consider classic cars as an analogy; while they may be less modern, they still get you around because even the oldest vehicles use gasoline for power.
• How many minutes come with the SIM card?
  The SIM cards usually come with call credits measured in monetary units such as euros rather than increments of time. This is because rate charges for calls vary depending on time of day, destination of the calls and other discounts or charges the carrier may apply. Also, with most GSM carriers providing free incoming calls to the user, the number of minutes on the SIM card could be substantial without the need to add more call credits.
• If the SIM card costs $80, do I get $80 worth of talk time?
  When you purchase the prepaid SIM card, you are buying the brain that inserts into your GSM cell phone and makes it work. There is always some credit included with new SIM cards, but the amounts vary from country to country. Additional airtime is purchased locally and usually available at or near face value. For example, a 25 Euro voucher will credit your SIM card 25 Euros. The remaining cost for the SIM card is a set-up fee which pays for service on this particular pre-paid account.
• What are the calling rates?
  Rates vary from country to country whether you are utilizing a country-specific or international SIM card. Please check the exact rates by calling 1-800-287-5072 or +1-310-862-7100 for the appropriate country-specific provider. With the exception of just a few countries, incoming calls (received within-country) for the country-specific SIM cards are always FREE - regardless of origin.
• How do I calculate my rental period?
  It is important to remember that your phone rental is measured from the date of your departure until the time it is sent back (not when it arrives) or returned in person. Your phone will arrive to your no less than two business days before your departure date. FedEx tracking information is used to document the drop off date on returned phones.
• After my trip, could I use the phone I buy from Cellular Abroad at home?
  All of the phones we sell work on the 1900 MHz GSM band, which is the standard in the U.S. While GSM technology is the world standard for mobile phone communications, you may find that your local GSM provider has poor coverage in your area. We at Cellular Abroad cannot determine this information for you. Your best bet is to ask people you know who use a GSM carrier in your area and see what their experience has been. You will also want to check directly with the GSM carrier you want to use to find out their rate plans. Inform them that you will have an unlocked 1900 MHz GSM phone already and find out what's involved in integrating that phone with their service.

To order, call 1-800-287-5072 or +1-310-862-7100 and use the promotional discount code "Boots". BootsnAll has negotiated a deal to get you the lowest rate. Be sure to mention the promotional code "Boots" to save money.

Article added on April 22, 2005

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