AppleCare Direct Mail-In Repair Service

Before you mail anything to Apple, please be aware of Apple's repair terms and conditions.

Step 1 - Back up your data
Step 2 - De-authorize iTunes
Step 3 - De-authorize security software
Step 4 - Disclose coverage exceptions
Step 5 - Package the product
Step 6 - Ship out the product

Step 1 – Back Up Your Data

Apple cannot over-emphasize the importance of backing up hard disk data before sending a product to Apple for repair. During the course of the repair, it is possible that software or data on the hard disk may be erased.

• Read the disclaimer in AppleCare's Direct Mail-in Repair Service Information concerning the integrity of hard disk data.
• When sending in an Apple portable product for repair, make sure to check that the computer has at least 3 GB of free space on the hard disk. The repair center requires at least 3 GB of free disk space to install and run diagnostic software for these products. Follow the steps below to check for available hard disk space:
  1. Click once on the hard disk icon on your desktop to highlight it.
  2. From the File menu, choose Get Info.
  3. The resulting window indicates how much hard disk space is available.

Step 2 - iTunes Music De-authorization

Some repairs may affect or delete a computer's authorization to play music or videos purchased from the iTunes Store. Customers should always back up computer data, including iTunes music and videos, and de-authorize the computer prior to a repair. To recover any authorization lost during a repair, customers can contact iTunes Store Customer Service via the iTunes Help menu.

Step 3 - Security Software De-authorization

Please disable security software installed on your Apple product. Products received with systems that are password-protected will either be returned un-repaired, or the repair will be delayed.

• If you did not provide the necessary passwords when the repair request was set up, or if you need assistance disabling the security software, contact Apple Dispatch at 800-APL-CARE (800-275-2273) before sending in the product.

Step 4 - Coverage Exceptions Disclosure

To prevent any delays in the repair process, be sure to disclose any coverage exceptions such as damage caused by accident, abuse, misuse, or misapplication; substantial modification of the product without the written permission of Apple; or the removal or defacing of the product’s serial number.

Step 5 - Packaging

• Follow the illustrated packaging instructions enclosed with the Apple product box.
• Pack only the Apple computer in the box provided.
• Do not include the AC adapter, power cord, extra batteries, pc cards, manuals or any software discs unless specifically instructed by an Apple representative.
• Make sure any CD or DVD discs have been removed from the optical drive.
• Any installed RAM, airport card, hard drive and battery should remain installed.

Step 6 - Shipping instructions

1. EZ Return Label
   Remove the top shipping label from your shipping box, beginning at the area highlighted in yellow that states “EZ RETURN LABEL -LIFT HERE.” Make sure that the bottom label remains attached to the shipping box. It is your return shipping label.
2. Verify Information
   On the bottom label that remains with the shipping box, please verify that the product serial number and dispatch numbers are correct and clearly visible.
3. Your Copy
   Retain the customer copy of the airbill for your records. Use the airbill number/tracking number from the return shipping label to track your shipment. Your invoice estimate is on the back of the removed top shipping label (see step 1). Customers who are responsible for any type of repair fee will receive an actual invoice separately in the mail five to seven business days after the completed repair.
4. Ship via FedEx 
   Bring the boxed and sealed product to a FedEx location, or contact FedEx at 800-GO-FEDEX (800-463-3339) to arrange a pickup. Be sure to give the package to a FedEX representative. Do not leave the package in a FedEx drop box.

Terms and Conditions

If you have any other concerns or questions, you can further review Apple's complete Repair terms and conditions here.