Frequently Asked Questions
Why trade in?
There are four main benefits to trading in aging technology:
- Even used systems may have a residual value that can be applied to new purchases.
- Storing and managing retired assets can be expensive and time consuming. Disposing of this equipment will reduce inventory management costs.
- Trading in used equipment now is better than waiting since its value to others declines with each passing day.
- Storing systems with important information, including health care and financial information, and grades, presents not only a legal problem but also a security problem if that data were misused.
Who is eligible for the Trade-In Program?
Any U.S. education institution, including K-12, Higher Education, and Campus Stores.
How does the program work?
- Step 1 — Provide your Sales or Financial Services Representative with a list of equipment you wish to trade in and/or recycle. Include the location and contact information.
- Step 2 — You will receive a customized quote within 48 hours. Review your quote and read the terms and conditions of the Apple Trade-In Program. Should you decide to accept the quote, simply sign and fax the quote back to Apple Trade-In.
- Step 3 — A Trade-In representative will contact you and make arrangements for packing materials to be delivered and to schedule pick-up of your equipment. You will be notified by email when your equipment is received at Apple’s third-party remarketer.
- Step 4 — Your equipment will be tested and audited to verify its condition and to determine the final value.
- Step 5 — A Trade-In representative will contact you with the results of the equipment test and audit.
- Step 6 — Final payment will be issued and mailed to you in the form of a check made payable to the owner of record.
Who do I contact to receive a quote on my equipment?
Contact your Apple Education Sales or Financial Services Representative at 1-800-800-APPL (2775). Your Representative will submit your inquiry to Apple’s Trade-In department and you will receive a customized quote within 48 hours.
How is the value of my equipment determined?
Used equipment value is based on three main factors:
- System configuration
- Equipment condition
- Supply and demand within the secondary or used electronics market
Upon receipt of your equipment, Apple’s third-party remarketer technicians perform an audit consisting of a series of detailed tests to determine and document the system configuration, and functional and cosmetic condition. Once the audit is complete, Apple’s third-party remarketer issues payment for all equipment received in working condition free of major cosmetic defects.
What about damaged or nonworking equipment?
This equipment may have some value. The actual amount depends on the parts and labor costs to repair and/or refurbish the damaged or nonworking component. During test and audit, Apple’s third-party remarketer technicians evaluate each system to determine if repair or refurbishment is economically feasible. Any residual value of the system will be paid to the customer.
How long does the process take?
You should expect to receive payment within six to eight weeks from the time you ship your equipment.
Can I trade in Windows machines?
Yes. Both Apple and non-Apple systems are accepted.
What products can I trade/recycle?
All computer equipment, computer related peripherals, and monitors.
What products are not accepted through Apple’s Trade-In and Recycle program?
We do not accept copiers, TVs, overheads, projectors, batteries not integral to computer systems, cracked or broken CRT monitors, UPS units, contaminated equipment of any kind, or any other universal or hazardous waste prohibited by local, state, or federal regulations.
What if I don’t know the condition or configuration of all my equipment?
No problem. Each and every system is tested and audited when it is received at Apple’s third-party remarketer. The actual value paid on each system is determined by this audit. Results of the audit are supplied to the customer and include the serial number, system type, system configuration, condition, and value paid.
Yes, I’m interested in learning more
What if the condition of my product is different from what I represented when initiating my trade in?
Conditions and configurations that differ from what were quoted may result in a trade-in credit different than what was originally quoted.
How long is the quote valid?
A quote is valid for 15 days, but can be requoted at any time. Acceptance of the offer and recovery of the equipment must take place within 30 days.
Will I be charged for requesting a quote? What if I decide not to pursue it?
No. There is no obligation when requesting a quote nor is there any penalty should you decide not to accept the quote for any reason.
Who pays for shipping?
Shipping is included at no additional cost. Packaging materials will be provided for all trade-in units.
How do I prepare my equipment for pick up?
Upon acceptance, Apple will provide you with the necessary packaging for pick up of all equipment to be traded in. This is provided at no additional charge.
Is there a limit to how many boxes I can send?
No.
What should I do to secure the data on our systems?
- While all data storage devices or components to be resold are cleansed to federal standards, Apple recommends that you back up your hard drive and erase all data from any storage device as an added security measure.
- Data cleansing is provided on all resale systems at no charge.
How should I dispose of batteries in my portable computer?
Your battery can ship inside the unit. If you have an extra battery, please tape over the lead with electrical tape.
How is the money for the trade disbursed?
Once your products have been received and audited by Apple’s third-party remarketer, they will send you a check. You should expect to receive the check six to eight weeks from the time you ship the product to Apple’s third-party remarketer. You may use these funds towards the purchase of new Apple products and services. If you have any questions please, contact your Apple Sales Representative or call 1-800-800-APPL (2775).
Is there a minimum number of products that must be traded?
No.
What if my products are in multiple locations?
No problem (a small fee may apply to cover the additional logistics expenses).
Who do I contact to recycle the packaging from my new Apple equipment?
Contact your Apple Sales or Financial Services Representative at 1-800-800-APPL (2775). Your Representative helps you coordinate with Apple’s recycling department to arrange the pick up for recycling.
How is the packaging recycled?
Apple’s recycling department will identify a local recycler that will process the main packaging components (cardboard/paper based products and expanded polystyrene foam) to divert recyclable materials from landfill, using recycling options that do not adversely impact the environment.
What if local rules and regulations prohibit my institution from accepting a rebate or trade-in check?
Call your Apple Sales Representative or 1-800-800-APPL (2775) to explore other potential options. Always check your local and state laws regarding the use and disposal of public assets.
Where can I get detailed product environmental data related to Apple products?
Visit the Apple Product Environmental Specifications (APES) files.
Which Apple products have earned the ENERGY STAR®?
Since 2001, all Apple computers and displays have earned the ENERGY STAR by meeting or exceeding the ENERGY STAR requirements.
More information
- Learn more about Apple and the environment.
- Contact your Apple Sales Representative or call 1-800-800-APPL (1-800-800-2775).
