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NETCOM Equipment Purchase & Service Agreement Combining Complexity with Simplicity

READ THIS FIRST — The 3 things customers most often miss

  1. 181-Day Commitment. Lines tied to subsidized hardware must stay active for 181 days from activation — on a Qualifying Plan ($69/mo+) if activated on one, or on any plan if activated on a Lower-Tier Plan (under $69/mo). Disconnect a line early and you owe a per-device chargeback (the amount depends on the device type — §2). Downgrade a Qualifying-Plan line below $69 early and you owe a separate $200/line fee. Service suspension does NOT pause the clock.
  2. A $0 device is subsidized — not free. Router/FWA chargeback = MSRP minus what you paid — full MSRP if you paid nothing. Once the line is activated, the chargeback applies whether or not you return the device. Worked example in §2.
  3. All returns require an approved RMA — from Netcom or its distributor. Items shipped back without one are refused. Used devices (any grade — pre-owned, refurbished, A-Stock), accessories, and Restricted-List brands (§3) are final sale unless verified defective within 30 days.

1. ACTIVATION & 181-DAY COMMITMENT

Subsidized Device. Hardware Netcom provided below MSRP — discounted or free — in exchange for activating a carrier line and keeping it active for 181 days on the plan tier it was activated on — a Qualifying Plan or a Lower-Tier Plan. The commitment and charges in §2 apply to Subsidized Devices. Hardware paid in full at MSRP is not subsidized and carries only the standard return policy in §3.

Payment & Activation. All hardware must be paid in full and activated on the requested carrier lines before shipment, unless covered by approved Net Terms or an executed Statement of Work.

“Activated.” A device is “activated” once the carrier line associated with it has been activated — whether by Netcom, the carrier, or Customer, and regardless of whether the device has been powered on or unboxed. Because activation occurs before shipment, subsidized devices arrive with their lines already activated.

Qualifying Plan. A carrier plan with a base monthly recurring charge of $69 or higher per line, measured before taxes, surcharges, promotional credits, and autopay discounts.

Lower-Tier Plan. A carrier plan with a base monthly recurring charge below $69 per line, measured the same way. Hardware discounted for activation on a Lower-Tier Plan is a Subsidized Device: the discount is smaller than on a Qualifying Plan, but the line carries the same 181-day commitment and Early-Termination Charge (§2). A line's tier is set by the plan it is activated on. Because a Lower-Tier line was never priced for a Qualifying Plan, the plan-downgrade fee does not apply to it; it only has to stay active, on any plan, through Day 181.

The 181-Day Rule. Every line tied to subsidized hardware must remain active for 181 days from the Activation Date — on a Qualifying Plan if it was activated on one, or on any plan if it was activated on a Lower-Tier Plan. Carrier-standard suspension is permitted — it keeps the line and plan of record intact — but does not pause the 181-day count. Plan downgrades, line cancellations, ports, or carrier swaps before Day 181 trigger fees per §2; the downgrade fee applies only where a line activated on a Qualifying Plan remains active on a plan below it. Carrier-initiated repricing or plan migration does not trigger fees if the line returns to a Qualifying Plan within 30 days of Netcom's written notice, and a documented fraudulent port-out (carrier fraud ticket required) is excused. Charges may be invoiced up to 12 months after the triggering event (delay is not a waiver); payment and resolution options are in §2. Restoration resolves a charge only if the line returns to its required plan tier and stays on it through the later of Day 181 from original activation or 60 days from restoration — a subsequent break reinstates the full charge.

2. FEES AT A GLANCE

These charges apply to Subsidized Devices. Keep each subsidized line active for 181 days — on a Qualifying Plan, if it was activated on one — and you owe nothing further. Break the commitment early — deactivate, cancel, or port the line, or drop a Qualifying-Plan line below $69, before Day 181 — and you owe the Early-Termination Charge below. You keep the device; the charge applies either way. Hardware returns — defects and change of mind — are covered in §3; this section is only the cost of breaking a line commitment.

EARLY-TERMINATION CHARGE — per device, where a subsidized line is broken before Day 181.
DeviceRelative exposureCharge
Router / FWA
MSRP − Paid
Phone / Laptop / MiFi / other hardware
$200 / device
Tablet
$100 / device
Plan downgrade (Qualifying-Plan line moved below $69)
$200 / line

How it works. Routers / FWA use MSRP − amount paid — the unpaid balance of the device's MSRP, i.e., the discount extended in exchange for the 181-day commitment (a $0-paid router with a $500 MSRP = $500; if $300 was paid, $500 − $300 = $200). Phones, laptops, MiFi, tablets and other hardware use a flat per-device charge instead, capped at the discount received on that device (whichever is less). The device category on your invoice line controls classification; a router or fixed-wireless (FWA) gateway is charged as Router/FWA regardless of size or form factor, while a battery-powered mobile hotspot (“MiFi”) takes the flat per-device charge (2-in-1 devices such as Surface Pro are laptops). Lower-Tier Plan lines use the same schedule and the same limits: the Router/FWA charge is the unpaid MSRP balance, and each flat charge is capped at the discount actually received on that device. A plan downgrade of a line activated on a Qualifying Plan to a plan below $69 is $200/line (never charged on Lower-Tier lines); total fees for any single line will not exceed one device charge plus one downgrade fee — no double recovery of the same subsidy. Actual MSRP is shown on your invoice; if it is not, MSRP means the OEM's published U.S. list price as of the order date (or, absent one, Netcom's catalog list price at order date).

Nature of these charges. The parties agree that Netcom's actual losses from a broken commitment — the unrecovered hardware discount and related administrative and fulfillment costs — are difficult to ascertain at the time of contracting, and that these charges are a reasonable good-faith pre-estimate of those losses, not a penalty. Cancellations: orders cancelled before line activation receive a full refund, less actual costs on special-order and configured-to-order items; orders cancelled after activation but before shipment are deactivated and refunded less Netcom's actual carrier and processing costs — no Early-Termination Charge applies to hardware never delivered. Chargeback invoices are due 15 days from issue; resolve via direct payment, line restoration with written carrier confirmation, or carrier billing with your written authorization (subject to availability).

3. RETURNS & DOA

Defects are always covered. Everything else follows the return reasons in 3.2. Every return requires an approved RMA from Netcom or its distributor (distributor RMAs are valid only for distributor-fulfilled orders); items shipped back without one are refused. Return and DOA windows run from delivery, not deployment. Fees for breaking a line commitment are in §2 — this section covers hardware returns.

3.1 KEY TERMS — the definitions that control this section.

“Delivery.” The first carrier-confirmed delivery scan to any address designated by Customer or its agent — including a 3PL, integrator, or branch location. On multi-shipment orders, each shipment's windows run independently, per unit.

“Defect” / “DOA” / “verified.” A “defect” is a failure to power on or the failure of a core hardware function — cellular radio, display, touch, charging, audio, camera — measured against the OEM's published specification for that model. It does not include performance relative to newer models, battery wear (see 3.3), cosmetic condition consistent with the sold grade, or software and app issues. “DOA” is a defect present at first power-on. A defect is “verified” on Netcom's or its distributor's diagnostic triage, whose determination is final; RMA requests must include the IMEI or serial, order number, a description, and photo or video evidence.

“Resalable.” Factory reset, unenrolled from all MDM and cloud locks, cosmetically new, with complete original packaging and accessories, as determined by Netcom's inspection. Netcom may decline or downgrade credit on any returned unit that fails inspection.

“Opened.” Used, deployed, registered or enrolled in a cloud/MDM account, configured, or missing packaging or accessories. Opening the box to inspect and power-test does not by itself forfeit the full-refund tier, provided the device is factory-reset, unregistered, undamaged, and returned with all packaging.

3.2 RETURN REASONS — WHAT EACH COSTS. A defect is free; every other reason has a stated price or is not returnable.
Reason for returnFee / outcome
Defective / DOA — new or Used, any grade$0 — free replacement within 30 days of delivery (verified per 3.1; unit returned via approved RMA). After 30 days → OEM manufacturer warranty (3.4).
Change of mind — new device, unopened (or opened only to inspect — reset, undamaged, full packaging), line never activated$0 — full refund within 30 days (approved RMA).
Change of mind — new device deployed or used, or line activated25% restock fee — 25% of the greater of price paid or invoice MSRP — within 30 days; unit must meet the Resalable standard (3.1). Excludes Restricted OEM brands, Used devices, special orders & CTO builds — final sale. After 30 days → no return.
Change of mind or over-order — Used device (any grade) or accessoriesNot returnable — final sale (3.3). A verified defect within 30 days is still replaced free.
Activated subsidized line, ended earlyEarly-Termination Charge (§2 fee table) — you keep the device. Within the first 30 days you may instead return a new unit meeting the Resalable standard for the 25% restock (25% of MSRP on a $0-paid device).

Inspect every device on arrival. The defect window is 30 days from delivery, so power-test and inspect every unit — new and Used — when it arrives. Opening the box to inspect does not forfeit the full-refund tier (see “Opened,” 3.1).

3.3 USED DEVICES — pre-owned smartphones, tablets, and hardware.

What we stand behind. Every Used device Netcom ships is tested, verified carrier-ready, factory reset, and data-wiped — and covered by the same 30-day free-replacement defect remedy as new hardware. Here is what that covers and what it doesn't.

One label, one set of rules. “Used” means any device that is not factory-new — including devices marketed as pre-owned, certified pre-owned, refurbished, A-Stock, or Grade A. One set of rules applies to all Used devices. A grade shown on your quote (e.g., Grade A) describes cosmetic condition at shipment only; it is not a warranty of future performance, battery life, or service life, and creates no warranty beyond the 30-day defect-replacement remedy in this section.

What arrives in the box. Used devices ship as the device only, in plain protective packaging — standard for business-volume pre-owned hardware. No OEM cables, charging blocks, earbuds, or retail boxes are included unless your quote states otherwise. A SIM card is included when the device ships with a carrier line Netcom activated. Accessories are neither included nor warranted.

Tested before shipment. Every device is tested for connectivity and verified carrier-ready prior to shipping, and is factory reset and data-wiped before it ships. Netcom is not responsible for carrier-side activation failures, or for a line the carrier suspends before shipment; these are resolved with your carrier representative and are not device defects or grounds for return.

Batteries. Batteries are consumable parts. Used devices ship with a working battery; capacity loss versus new is normal for a pre-owned device and is not a defect. A battery that fails outright — won't charge or won't hold a charge — within the 30-day window is covered like any other functional defect.

Our commitment. Netcom's obligation is to ship the make, model, and grade quoted, verified carrier-ready on the network specified (or unlocked, if specified). OS update eligibility, continued OEM/carrier software support, and third-party app compatibility are outside Netcom's control and this remedy.

Final sale. Used devices are sold FINAL SALE, “AS IS” and “WITH ALL FAULTS,” except only the 30-day defect-replacement remedy in this section. Change-of-mind and over-order returns are not accepted.

Not covered: cosmetic wear consistent with the stated grade; normal battery capacity loss; physical or liquid damage after delivery (a triggered liquid indicator voids coverage); units opened, repaired, or modified by anyone other than Netcom; software, apps, OS update eligibility/availability, third-party app compatibility, or data loss; carrier, network, coverage, or account issues; accessories.

Prior-owner MDM locks. Devices ship factory reset with no known residual MDM/carrier enrollment. If a prior-owner lock surfaces after delivery (e.g., blocks an OS update or reports to a former org's MDM), report the IMEI/serial and Netcom will work in good faith with the OEM/carrier or initiate a vendor RMA. This is a goodwill accommodation, not a warranty — it doesn't extend the 30-day window, doesn't guarantee a fix or timeline, and doesn't obligate a direct replacement.

Performance. Used devices perform to the OEM's published specification for that model and generation. An older-generation device running at its designed speed is not a defect.

Sizing an order. We're glad to help size an order before you place it — ask before you buy.

3.4 OEM WARRANTY & RESTRICTED BRANDS — what the manufacturer covers after Netcom's 30 days.

OEM (manufacturer) warranty — when it applies. Netcom handles defects in-house for 30 days from delivery. After that, hardware defects are covered under the manufacturer's warranty for its stated term — contact the OEM directly, and Netcom can point you to the right channel. The OEM warranty covers manufacturing defects only; it does not cover accidental or physical damage or normal wear. Some OEM warranties are conditional on an active OEM subscription (for example: Ericsson Cradlepoint NetCloud; Peplink PrimeCare on -PRM models; Digi 360; Semtech AirLink) — if the subscription lapses, the OEM warranty may lapse with it. Apple, Samsung, and opened Microsoft Surface devices are serviced through the manufacturer's own warranty channels, not exchanged by Netcom. OEM warranties apply to the original purchase only and do not transfer to Used devices — coverage on Used devices is exclusively Netcom's 30-day remedy above.

Restricted OEM brands (Final Sale): Apple, Samsung, Ericsson Cradlepoint, Cisco Meraki, Palo Alto, Peplink, Juniper, ATEL, Teltonika, DIGI, Inseego, Microsoft (open box — factory-sealed Microsoft follows the standard return row) — not returnable unless verified defective within 30 days. Report suspected DOA immediately on arrival — OEM DOA windows are as short as 7–14 days, and late reports can limit the remedy to the OEM's repair channel. Non-refundable: special orders, configured-to-order builds, freight, and software licenses and OEM subscriptions (NetCloud, PrimeCare, AirLink, Digi 360, and similar are non-cancellable and non-refundable once activated, per the OEM's terms).

3.5 RMA & REPLACEMENTS — how a return actually moves.

Our commitments. Complete RMA requests get an answer within 5 business days, and refunds are processed within 10 business days of receipt and passed inspection.

RMA — required, from Netcom or its distributor. Email support@networksandcommunications.com or call (855) 963-8266 before shipping anything back. Return and defect requests must be received in writing by Day 30 from delivery — the request date controls, not the ship date. Approved units must be received within 15 days of RMA issuance or the RMA expires. Returning a device to a carrier store does not count as a return to Netcom — it won't stop charges or start a refund. Units may be triaged before a return is approved; hardware shipped without an approved RMA will be refused. Before return, factory-reset each device and remove all activation locks (iCloud / Google / Samsung), MDM enrollment, and SIMs — a locked or enrolled device fails inspection and receives no credit. Customer pays return freight unless the return is for a defect or DOA.

Replacements & risk of loss. Replacement and warranty-exchange units inherit the original unit's delivery date, activation date, and all windows and commitments — no new periods begin; the 181-day commitment follows the line, not the device. Risk of loss passes on delivery to Customer's designated address. Visible transit damage must be noted with the carrier and reported to Netcom within 2 business days of delivery, with photos. Defect remedies exclude damage from impact, liquid, mishandling, or improper installation, as determined by triage.

3.6 COMMON SCENARIOS — "Day" = days since delivery.
SituationWhat happens
Day 10 — device dead on arrival (any grade)Free replacement (approved RMA; return the unit).
Day 15 — new, unopened, line never activated, changed your mindFull refund (approved RMA).
Day 25 — new, opened, line not activated, changed your mind25% restock if you return it (resalable; Netcom may decline).
Day 20 — Used device (any grade), changed your mindFinal sale — no return. A verified defect within 30 days is still a free replacement.
Lines activated, then deactivated before Day 181 — devices kept, no return, no defectEarly-Termination Charge per device — see the fee table in §2. Example: 15 phones activated then deactivated, kept → 15 × $200 = $3,000.
Line activated on a Lower-Tier Plan (under $69/mo), disconnected before Day 181Early-Termination Charge per device, capped at the discount received on that device (§2). No downgrade fee. Changing to a different plan while keeping the line active is $0.
Over-ordered (activated 10, needed 5)Activated units remain subject to the 181-day commitment. Options: suspend the idle lines through Day 181 and disconnect at no charge, or disconnect now and pay the charge.
Day 181+ — line finished its term, you disconnect$0 — no charge.

4. SUPPORT SCOPE

What's INCLUDEDWhat's NOT INCLUDED
Hardware operabilityVLAN, VPN, firewall, IP passthrough configuration
Cellular network attachmentLocal client troubleshooting (printers, Wi-Fi, IoT devices)
OEM defect/bug escalationSite surveys, RF planning, deployment labor
6 months on routers/FWA from delivery dateCustom integration / scripting
One Talk: lifetime, zero-cost (active lines)Available via Netcom Professional Services

Support scope. Support means remote troubleshooting, configuration assistance, and OEM escalation labor only — it does not include hardware repair, replacement, or refund. Hardware remedies are governed exclusively by §3 and the OEM warranty. Router/FWA support runs a full 6 months from delivery, and One Talk support is free for the life of the line — included with your order.