How to (Maybe) Get a DJI Mavic 4 Pro in the US: Workarounds, Risks, and What You Need to Know

BY Zacc Dukowitz
21 May 2025

Since DJI launched the Mavic 4 Pro last week, it’s quickly become one of the most talked-about releases in the drone world.

And for good reason. With its 6K/100MP camera system, new Infinity Gimbal, and a suite of intelligent features, the Mavic 4 Pro sets a new standard for what prosumer drones can do.

mavic-4-pro-hero
The Mavic 4 Pro | Credit: DJI

But if you’re trying to actually buy a Mavic 4 Pro, you’ve probably run into a wall of confusion and frustration.

Despite all the buzz, the Mavic 4 Pro isn’t officially available in the U.S. Retailers list it, then pull it. Even DJI’s own store is silent, though it was offering the new drone for sale (more on that below).

Meanwhile, international drone pilots are already posting their first flights and sample footage.

So how can you actually get a Mavic 4 Pro? We’ll share everything we know in this article.

Why the DJI Mavic 4 Pro Didn’t Launch in the U.S.

From the beginning, DJI said it wouldn’t be launching the Mavic 4 Pro in the U.S.

“The DJI Mavic 4 Pro will not be available for sale in the U.S. upon its global launch on May 13 . . . [but we are] closely monitoring the situation and actively exploring every possible solution.”

– DJI spokesperson

The main reasons DJI didn’t launch in the U.S. are:

  • Tariffs. Complex and shifting U.S. tariffs on Chinese-made drones have significantly increased import costs—sometimes by as much as 170%—making it financially challenging for DJI and U.S. retailers to bring the Mavic 4 Pro to market.
  • Customs scrutiny. Heightened U.S. Customs inspections have resulted in some DJI shipments being blocked due to concerns over supply chain transparency and compliance, adding further uncertainty to the import process.
  • Political and regulatory pressures. Ongoing U.S.-China tensions and proposed state-level bans on Chinese drones have created an unpredictable and restrictive regulatory environment for DJI.

mavic-4-pro-get-in-us
Credit: DJI

How to Get a DJI Mavic 4 Pro in the U.S.

Determined to get a Mavic 4 Pro? You’re not completely out of options.

While official channels are closed, several workarounds have emerged.

Introducing DJI Mavic 4 Pro

Here are the main ways people are getting their hands on the Mavic 4 Pro:

1. Buy It from U.S. Retailers

A handful of U.S. retailers have sporadically listed the Mavic 4 Pro for sale or preorder.

And inventory goes fast—if you spot one, act quickly. But also be ready for the possibility of delays or cancellations.

Here’s everything we know:

  • Adorama was actively selling the Mavic 4 Pro last week but now it’s listed as “Temporarily Unavailable”—fingers crossed it will be back in stock soon.
  • B&H is offering the Mavic 4 Pro on pre-order.
  • DJI Fifth Avenue, DJI’s official flagship store in New York City, was selling the Mavic 4 Pro but is currently out of stock—and we don’t know when or even if it will be restocked.

Find it strange that DJI’s New York store is selling the Mavic 4 Pro even though DJI isn’t?

Here’s what DJI had to say about that:

“At this time, the DJI Mavic 4 Pro is not available for sale in the U.S. market through DJI’s official e-commerce site. DJI’s store in New York is operated by an authorized partner, which is different from DJI’s official e-commerce channel.”

2. Buy It Abroad

Buying the Mavic 4 Pro in another country is also an option.

Last week we spoke to Calvin Ludwig, owner of a construction drone services company called 4Blades Digital in Denver, CO, who told us that he was expecting his Mavic 4 Pro to arrive soon from Canada.

Here are the two ways U.S. buyers are getting the Mavic 4 Pro from abroad:

  • Travel to a foreign country and buy it in person. Some are making the trip to Canada or Mexico, where the Mavic 4 Pro is readily available at retail stores. After buying it, you’ll need to declare the drone at the border when returning. Beware that you may face import duties, questions from customs, and possible delays. Warranty coverage may also be limited or unavailable for drones purchased outside the U.S.
  • Have someone abroad buy and ship it to you. Another option is to ask a friend, family member, or trusted contact in Canada, Mexico, or another country to buy it and ship it to you. Beware that going this route can carry risks, including customs delays, additional fees, or even seizure of the shipment by U.S. Customs and Border Protection due to ongoing scrutiny of DJI imports.

No matter which route you choose, it’s important to understand the risks:

  • Imported drones may not be covered by DJI’s U.S. warranty or be eligible for DJI Care Refresh.
  • Customs may delay, tax, or seize your shipment.
  • You may face legal or regulatory issues operating a drone not officially certified for the U.S. market.

Despite these warnings, we know that people like Calvin are going this route, and seem to be getting their Mavic 4 Pro’s just fine.

3. Use a Third-Party or Gray Market Seller

A third option is to use third-party importers or “gray market” sellers, either online and in person.

These sources can sometimes deliver the drone to your door, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Prices are often inflated
  • Warranty support may not be possible
  • There’s always a risk that your order could be delayed or seized in transit.

If you go this route, make sure to do your homework and understand what you’re giving up in terms of support and peace of mind.

mavic-4-pro-rc-pro-2
Credit: DJI

Stay Tuned for Official Updates

As we quoted above, DJI says it’s “actively exploring every possible solution” for U.S. buyers.

And tariffs may be lifted any day. There’s been a lot of uncertainty on that front, and it’s hard to know what might happen in the near future.

If you’re not in a rush, we recommend monitoring Adorama, B&H, and the DJI store in New York for updates. Also, follow DJI on social media—you never know when a sudden U.S. release might happen.

As always, we’ll be tracking developments and sharing updates as they happen.

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