How To Trade Pokémon GO Long Distance: A Comprehensive Guide

Marcia Okuneva 21 Aug 2025

Trading Pokémon in Pokémon GO is a feature that many players look forward to, but what if you want to trade with someone far away? Trading Pokémon GO long distance has become a popular topic among players, and this article will guide you through the process step by step. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced trainer, understanding the mechanics of long-distance trading is essential for expanding your collection.

Pokémon GO, developed by Niantic, has revolutionized the way people interact with augmented reality games. Since its launch in 2016, the game has continued to evolve, introducing new features and mechanics to keep players engaged. One of the most anticipated features is the ability to trade Pokémon, which allows players to exchange creatures and complete their Pokédex.

In this article, we'll explore how to trade Pokémon GO long distance effectively, covering everything from the basics of trading to advanced strategies. By the end of this guide, you'll have all the information you need to trade successfully with friends or other players, regardless of their location.

Introduction to Pokémon GO Trading
Requirements for Long-Distance Trading
Understanding the Friend System
How to Trade Pokémon GO Long Distance
Costs Associated with Long-Distance Trading
Tips for Successful Long-Distance Trades
Benefits of Long-Distance Trading
Potential Risks and How to Avoid Them
Alternatives to Long-Distance Trading
The Future of Pokémon GO Trading

Introduction to Pokémon GO Trading

Pokémon GO trading allows players to exchange Pokémon with their friends, making it easier to complete their Pokédex. Initially, trading required players to be within 100 meters of each other, but Niantic has since updated the system to allow long-distance trading under certain conditions. This feature has opened up new possibilities for players who want to trade with friends or other trainers around the world.

Evolution of Pokémon GO Trading

When Pokémon GO first introduced trading, it was limited to in-person exchanges. Over time, Niantic expanded the feature to include long-distance trading, making it more accessible to players. This evolution reflects Niantic's commitment to enhancing the social aspects of the game while keeping it engaging and fun.

Requirements for Long-Distance Trading

Before you can engage in long-distance trading, there are several requirements you need to meet. These requirements ensure a smooth and secure trading experience for both parties involved.

You must be at least level 10 in Pokémon GO.
Both traders must be friends in the game.
Friends must have a friendship level of "Great Friend" or higher.
You need a stable internet connection.

Leveling Up Your Friendship

To reach the "Great Friend" level, you and your trading partner must interact regularly by sending gifts, battling together, or spinning PokéStops together. Each interaction earns you friendship points, which contribute to leveling up your friendship status.

Understanding the Friend System

The friend system in Pokémon GO is integral to long-distance trading. By adding friends and maintaining strong relationships, you unlock additional features and benefits, such as the ability to trade Pokémon over long distances.

Adding Friends

To add a friend in Pokémon GO, you need their Trainer Code. Once you have their code, follow these steps:

Open the Pokémon GO app.
Tap on your Trainer Profile.
Select "Friends" from the menu.
Tap "Add Friend" and enter the Trainer Code.

How to Trade Pokémon GO Long Distance

Trading Pokémon GO long distance is relatively straightforward once you meet the requirements. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Ensure both you and your friend meet the trading requirements.
Select the Pokémon you want to trade from your collection.
Choose your friend from the list of eligible trading partners.
Confirm the trade and pay the required Stardust fee.
Wait for your friend to confirm the trade on their end.

Important Notes

Keep in mind that certain Pokémon, such as those obtained through special events or raids, cannot be traded. Additionally, some Pokémon may incur higher Stardust fees depending on their rarity and power level.

Costs Associated with Long-Distance Trading

Long-distance trading in Pokémon GO requires Stardust, which is used to pay for the trade. The amount of Stardust needed depends on the friendship level between the two traders:

Great Friend: 1,000 Stardust
Ultra Friend: 800 Stardust
Best Friend: 500 Stardust

By maintaining a higher friendship level, you can reduce the cost of trading, making it more economical for both parties.

Tips for Successful Long-Distance Trades

Here are some tips to ensure your long-distance trades go smoothly:

Communicate clearly with your trading partner about the Pokémon you want to exchange.
Double-check the Pokémon details before confirming the trade.
Trade during off-peak hours to avoid server congestion.
Consider trading Pokémon that are less common in your region to maximize the benefits.

Building Trust

Trust is crucial in long-distance trading. Always trade with friends or trusted players to minimize the risk of scams or misunderstandings. Regular communication and transparency can help build a strong trading relationship.

Benefits of Long-Distance Trading

Long-distance trading offers several benefits for Pokémon GO players:

Access to Pokémon that are rare or nonexistent in your region.
Opportunities to complete your Pokédex faster.
Enhanced social interaction with friends and other trainers worldwide.

Expanding Your Collection

By trading with players from different parts of the world, you can obtain Pokémon that are exclusive to specific regions. This not only enriches your collection but also adds a global dimension to your Pokémon GO experience.

Potential Risks and How to Avoid Them

While long-distance trading is generally safe, there are some risks to be aware of:

Scammers pretending to be legitimate traders.
Miscommunication leading to unwanted trades.
Server issues causing trade failures.

To avoid these risks, always trade with trusted friends or players with a proven track record. Use clear communication and verify all details before confirming a trade.

Reporting Suspicious Activity

If you encounter any suspicious behavior during a trade, report it immediately to Niantic. This helps maintain the integrity of the trading system and protects the entire Pokémon GO community.

Alternatives to Long-Distance Trading

If long-distance trading isn't an option for you, there are alternative ways to obtain rare Pokémon:

Participate in regional events and raids.
Travel to areas where specific Pokémon are more common.
Join local Pokémon GO communities to find trading partners nearby.

Local Trading Events

Many cities host Pokémon GO meetups and trading events where players can gather to exchange Pokémon in person. These events provide an excellent opportunity to meet new friends and expand your collection.

The Future of Pokémon GO Trading

Niantic continues to enhance the trading system in Pokémon GO, with plans to introduce new features and improvements. Future updates may include expanded trading options, reduced costs, and enhanced security measures to ensure a seamless experience for all players.

Player Feedback

Your feedback plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Pokémon GO trading. By sharing your experiences and suggestions with Niantic, you can help influence the development of the game and ensure it meets the needs of the player community.

Conclusion

Trading Pokémon GO long distance is a valuable feature that allows players to expand their collections and connect with friends worldwide. By understanding the requirements, costs, and potential risks, you can engage in successful trades that benefit both parties. Remember to communicate clearly, build trust, and always verify details before confirming a trade.

We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Your feedback helps us create better content for the Pokémon GO community. Don't forget to explore our other articles for more tips and strategies to enhance your Pokémon GO journey!

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