Table of Contents

This page last changed 2025.06.13 09:38 [13 times today, 5 times yesterday, and 18 total times]

How to Erase and Ship an iPad Safely

1️⃣ Fully Erase the iPad (Factory Reset)

Before erasing:

Steps:
please pardon any redundancy

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

2️⃣ Prepare for Safe Shipping

  1. Use the original box if available.
  2. 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
  3. Include:
    • Charger and cable (if sending).
    • Instruction note for the new user (optional).

3️⃣ Shipping Tips

  1. Use a tracked and insured service (e.g., USPS Priority Mail, UPS, FedEx).
  2. Consider signature confirmation.
  3. 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

4️⃣ Double Check Before Sealing

5️⃣ Insurance

6️⃣ Lithium Battery Rules

7️⃣ Tracking


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

Notes