~~NOCACHE~~ <fc #a0a0a0><fs small>This page last changed ~~LASTMOD~~ [{{counter|today| time| times}} today, {{counter|yesterday| time| times}} yesterday, and {{counter|total| time| total times}}]</fs></fc>

===== How to Erase and Ship an iPad Safely =====

=== 1️⃣ Fully Erase the iPad (Factory Reset) ===

Before erasing:
  * Make sure the iPad is backed up (iCloud or computer backup).

**Steps:**\\ 
//please pardon any redundancy//

  - **Sign out of iCloud & Apple ID:**
    - Go to ''Settings > [your name] > iCloud > Find My iPad'' → Turn off.
    - Then go to ''Settings > [your name] > Sign Out''.
    - Enter Apple ID password when prompted.
    - ''Note: This step is critical to remove Activation Lock. Without it, the new user will not be able to use the iPad.''
  - **Erase all content:**
    - Go to ''Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Erase All Content and Settings''.
    - Follow the on-screen prompts to fully erase.
    - The iPad will restart and show the "Hello" screen, ready for setup.
  - **Factory reset the iPad:**
    - Go to: Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPad → Erase All Content and Settings.
    - This removes personal data and iCloud account.
  - **Remove Activation Lock (Apple ID):**
    - Ensure "Find My iPad" is turned off before shipping.
    - Without this, the new owner cannot activate the iPad.

=== 2️⃣ Prepare for Safe Shipping ===

  - Use the original box if available.
  - If not:
    * Use a sturdy shipping box.
    * Wrap the iPad in multiple layers of bubble wrap, paying special attention to the screen.
    * Add extra padding (air pillows, foam peanuts, etc.) to the box.
    * Double-box for extra protection if needed
  - Include:
    * Charger and cable (if sending).
    * Instruction note for the new user (optional).

=== 3️⃣ Shipping Tips ===

  - Use a tracked and insured service (e.g., USPS Priority Mail, UPS, FedEx).
  - Consider signature confirmation.
  - Do not include any written PIN or passwords.

=== USPS Shipping Options ===

^ Option ^ Speed ^ Insurance ^ Tracking ^
| Priority Mail | 1–3 days | Up to $100 included | ✅ |
| Priority Mail Express | Overnight (in many areas) | $100 included | ✅ |
| USPS Ground Advantage (formerly First Class for packages) | 2–5 days | Up to $100 included | ✅ |

  * For iPads, **Priority Mail** is often the best option: fast, tracked, insured, and affordable.

=== 4️⃣ Double Check Before Sealing ===

  * Signed out of iCloud ✅
  * Fully erased ✅
  * Packed securely ✅
  * Tracking & insurance arranged ✅

=== 5️⃣ Insurance ===

  * $100 insurance is usually included.
  * Purchase additional insurance for full replacement value.
  * Declare value truthfully when buying insurance.

=== 6️⃣ Lithium Battery Rules ===

  * iPads contain lithium batteries, but USPS allows them for domestic shipments.
  * No special markings required if battery is installed inside the device.
  * International shipments may require customs forms and lithium battery labels.

=== 7️⃣ Tracking ===

  * Always obtain tracking
  * USPS provides tracking automatically with Priority Mail and above.

----

====== USPS Lithium Battery Declaration Cheat Sheet ======

=== Domestic USPS Shipment of iPad ===

If the USPS agent asks whether the package contains any lithium batteries, say:

> **"Yes, it contains a lithium-ion battery installed inside the device (an iPad). It’s allowed under USPS domestic shipping regulations."**

=== Key Facts ===
  * Lithium battery is installed in the equipment.
  * Not a loose or spare battery.
  * No special forms or markings are required for domestic USPS shipments.
  * Complies fully with USPS DMM 349.222.

=== Notes ===
  * Applies only to domestic (U.S.) USPS shipments.
  * International shipments have different requirements.
  * Proper packaging and padding should still be used to protect the device during transit.