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ship_an_ipad

This page last changed 2025.06.13 09:38 [2 times today, 5 times yesterday, and 7 total times]

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

  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
  • 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.
ship_an_ipad.txt · Last modified: by Steve Isenberg