Zip Scanners is a Minneapolis-based police scanner retailer. Since 2013, we've helped thousands of customers choose, program, and use their scanners with confidence.

Police scanners are all we do. We offer expert recommendations, professional programming, and lifetime technical support.

The right scanner depends on local radio systems, frequencies, and the agencies being monitored.

Complete our free Which Scanner Do I Need? form. A real scanner expert will research the area and recommend a compatible model.

It depends on the local radio systems, scanner capabilities, distance, and reception conditions.

Some agencies use encrypted communications, which consumer scanners cannot decode.

For a personalized recommendation, complete our free scanner selection form before purchasing.

Police scanners are generally legal to own in the U.S., but restrictions on their use vary by state and location, particularly in vehicles or during certain activities.

Review applicable local laws before using a scanner.

We accept major credit and debit cards, PayPal, Shop Pay, and supported express checkout methods such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Amazon Pay.

Available payment options are displayed at checkout.

Yes! We purchase select used Uniden and Whistler scanners and offer payment or store credit.

Visit our Sell Your Old Scanner page for eligible models, instructions, and current offers.

Sales tax is calculated automatically at checkout based on the shipping address and applicable tax requirements.

Any applicable tax will appear before the order is placed.

Discount codes are subject to the terms of each promotion, including expiration dates, eligible products, and minimum purchases.

Codes cannot be combined unless specifically permitted by the promotion.

Yes! Free shipping on orders over $99 within the contiguous 48 U.S. states.

Shipping rates for other orders and destinations are calculated at checkout.

Orders for in-stock items placed before 2 p.m. CST on business days typically ship the same day.

Orders requiring expert programming or other services may need an additional 1–3 business days for preparation.

Most domestic orders arrive approximately 1–3 business days after shipment, depending on the destination and shipping method.

Shipping estimates are not guaranteed. Available delivery options and charges appear at checkout.

All orders ship from our Minneapolis, Minnesota warehouse.

We use established carriers, including UPS and USPS, depending on the order and destination.

A shipping confirmation email with tracking information is sent when the order ships.

Tracking updates are provided by the carrier. Check the spam folder if the email doesn't arrive.

Some orders require a delivery signature for security.

If a signature is required, the carrier will provide delivery instructions and available options through the tracking information.

Our experts program local police, fire & EMS frequencies and organize them into an easy-to-use system.

With professional programming, the scanner arrives ready to start listening without the hassle of setting everything up.

Learn about expert programming.

Police, fire & EMS frequencies are programmed for each selected county and its state.

Simply select the programming package and enter the counties and states to be monitored.

Additional counties can be added when ordering.

Yes, but programming can be complicated, especially with digital radio systems.

We provide programming guides and videos for DIY users. Professional programming is highly recommended for a simpler, ready-to-use experience.

Only if the local radio systems require those formats.

Some compatible scanners offer optional software upgrades to unlock additional radio formats. These upgrades are not required everywhere.

Unsure? Contact our experts before purchasing and we'll check the area.

No. Scanner reception depends on distance, terrain, antennas, local radio systems, and other factors.

We use the community-maintained RadioReference database to research frequencies and programming. Radio systems can change, and database information may not always be current.

Encrypted communications cannot be monitored with consumer scanners. Our experts can help select a compatible scanner, but specific reception or channel availability cannot be guaranteed.

Yes, specialty programming is available for supported scanners and locations.

Provide the airport, railroad, race track, or specific frequencies when ordering. Contact us before purchasing if the requirements are unusual.

Returns are accepted within 14 days of delivery.

Items must be in new or like-new condition with original packaging and accessories.

A return authorization (RMA) is required before sending anything back. Standard restocking fees apply unless the product is defective or incorrect.

Yes. Standard returns are subject to a 15% restocking fee or $10, whichever is greater.

The fee helps cover shipping, handling, and return processing. It also applies when local scanner reception doesn't meet expectations.

Defective or incorrect items are exempt from restocking fees.

Email zip@zipscanners.com with the subject RMA Request.

Include the order number, reason for return, and whether the full or partial order is being returned.

We'll provide return instructions. Please do not ship items back without an RMA.

Professional programming and software upgrades are generally non-refundable once completed or activated.

If programming was performed incorrectly, contact us so we can correct the issue.

Original shipping charges are non-refundable for standard returns.

Contact us with the order number and a description of the issue.

We'll arrange an appropriate replacement or refund at no additional cost, including necessary return shipping. No restocking fee applies.

Refunds are generally processed within 3–5 business days after the return is received and inspected.

Additional time may be required for the payment provider to post the credit.

Yes! We offer free lifetime technical support for scanners purchased from Zip Scanners.

Our team can help troubleshoot reception, setup, software, and general scanner operation.

Lifetime support covers technical assistance, but does not include unlimited one-on-one training or step-by-step DIY programming instruction.

Our scanner experts are available through several channels:

• Email: zip@zipscanners.com
• Phone: 737-777-9876
• Schedule a call: Book a time
• Help Center: Support articles and guides

Please include the scanner model and order number when contacting us about an existing purchase.

New scanners generally include a 1-year manufacturer's warranty covering eligible manufacturing defects.

Warranty coverage and exclusions depend on the manufacturer and product.

Open-box scanners have been opened for demonstrations, inspection, or returns but cannot be sold as new.

Refurbished scanners are previously owned units that have been inspected, tested, and prepared for resale.

Both offer savings compared with new scanners.

Yes. Our scanner experts inspect and test each unit to verify proper operation.

Items are sold in good working condition, with the included accessories and any condition details identified on the product listing.

All open-box and refurbished scanners include a 90-day limited warranty.

The standard return policy also applies unless otherwise specified on the product listing.