How to Transfer Your Imported Starlink Kit to a Zimbabwe Account

Some Starlink users in Zimbabwe have faced service disruptions, particularly those who imported their kits from neighboring countries. The abrupt stop in service has left many wondering how to get back online. Fortunately, there’s a solution: transferring your Starlink hardware to a Zimbabwe-based account. However, there are important steps and conditions you need to be aware of to successfully complete the transfer.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to transfer your Starlink kit and get your internet service up and running in Zimbabwe.

Why Has Starlink Stopped Service on Imported Kits?

As part of their service regulations, Starlink enforces country-specific service regions, meaning kits imported from outside Zimbabwe no longer function within the country. The company’s policy also restricts users from simply changing their service address to a new country. This move has affected numerous Starlink customers in Zimbabwe, particularly those who bypassed official channels to import their hardware from neighboring countries.

But there’s a workaround: transferring your Starlink kit to a new Zimbabwe-based account. Here’s how you can do it.

Key Information Before Transferring Your Starlink Kit

Before starting the transfer process for your Starlink kit, there are several important conditions to keep in mind. First, ensure that all outstanding balances are settled. Any unpaid orders or services could prevent the transfer from being completed.

Next, you must cancel your current Starlink service to proceed with the transfer. Keep in mind that once the hardware is transferred, it is permanently removed from your account, meaning you will no longer have access to it, and any remaining service days will be forfeited.

You’ll also need to create a new Starlink account using a different email address than the one tied to your existing account. Starlink does not permit account reuse for hardware transfers, so a fresh account is necessary. Once your new account is activated, you’ll be billed for the first month of service.

Lastly, transfers are not allowed until a minimum of 120 days after the initial purchase or 90 days after activation, whichever comes first. This restriction ensures that the hardware has been in use for a sufficient amount of time before being transferred.

Find Your Starlink Kit’s Serial Numbers or Terminal ID

To complete the transfer process, you'll need to locate either the Kit Serial Number or the Terminal ID for your Starlink hardware. The Kit Serial Number can typically be found on the shipping label, such as "KIT00000000." For the Dish Serial Number, its location varies depending on the type of Starlink kit you have.

If you're using the Standard or Enterprise version, the Dish Serial Number is located on the back of the Starlink near the connector port. For the Mini, you'll find it at the bottom left of the Kickstand. If you have the Standard Actuated or High Performance model, the serial number will be at the bottom of the mast, while the Flat High Performance version has the serial number on the back of the Starlink near the connector port.

Additionally, to find the Terminal ID, open the Starlink app on your device, navigate to the Settings menu, and then select Advanced. There, you will find the Terminal ID under the “STARLINK” section, which is typically displayed in a format like "00000000-00000000-00000000."

Be sure to note down these details, as you’ll need them to complete the transfer process.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Transfer Your Starlink Kit

Follow these steps to transfer your Starlink kit to a new Zimbabwe-based account:

1. Log into Your Current Account: Head to starlink.com and log in to your existing Starlink account.
2. Manage Your Starlink Kit: Go to “Your Starlinks” and find the kit you want to transfer. Click “Manage” next to the kit.
3. Cancel Your Service: On the left-hand side, select “Cancel Service”. Make sure to take note of your Starlink identifier (this is crucial because you won’t be able to view it after the kit is removed from your account).
4. Initiate the Transfer: Under the “Devices” section, locate your Starlink kit and click “Transfer”. You’ll be asked to confirm the terms of the transfer, which will permanently remove the kit from your account.

How to Activate Your Starlink Kit in Zimbabwe

At this stage, you’ve successfully removed the Starlink kit from your previous account, which was likely registered in Mozambique, Zambia, or whichever country you initially got it from. Now, the goal is to register the kit under a new account in Zimbabwe. Here's how to proceed:

Go to Starlink.com/activate. Once there, enter the kit number and select the new account option.

Next, provide your details with different email address that hasn’t been previously used with a Starlink account. When entering your address, make sure it’s the exact location in Zimbabwe where you plan to use the kit, ensuring Starlink recognizes and accepts it.

When it comes to choosing a service plan, note that for users in Harare, only the roaming package is available, and it costs $100 per month. After selecting your plan, enter your billing information.

Once the payment is processed, your new account will be activated, and you’ll now have a Zimbabwe-registered Starlink account ready for use.

With the recent restriction on imported Starlink kits, transferring your hardware to a Zimbabwe-based account is the best way to restore service. By following these steps, you’ll be able to get back online and enjoy uninterrupted Starlink internet in Zimbabwe. Be sure to carefully follow the transfer process to avoid any issues.