After enough bad experiences selling stuff through Craigslist, OfferUp, and similar services, I decided to try out the Apple GiveBack program. You can generally get more money for your item by selling it on one of those other services, but the idea of not having to worry about scammers and flakey buyers made this approach entirely worth getting back a little less money in the end.
The process couldn’t be more straightforward! You can complete the process through the website or the Apple Store app. If you are purchasing a new product, you can even complete the process as part of that buy flow and the money for your old device will be given to you in the form of refund toward your new purchase.
Once you have selected the item you want to GiveBack, they ask three simple questions:
- Does it turn on?
- Are the screen and enclosure in good shape?
- Do all the buttons work?
You then get your quote immediately based on your answers.
Based on what you’ve told us, you’ve got $XXX in trade-in value.
If you accept the amount, you move on the entering your usual information and shipping address. A few days later a small box shows up at your doorstep. Inside the box are the following items:
- Device Shipping Tips Guide
- UPS Shipping Label
- Apple GiveBack Program Letter
- Box Insert To Hold Your Old Device
After wiping my old Apple Watch, I placed it in the insert, sealed up the box, and put the new shipping label on the box. That’s it! Once they receive the device and verify the condition, I will receive an Apple gift card for the amount. Overall this was a very streamlined process, and I can see doing this again in the future.
UPDATE 2018-10-02
They have received my watch and cleared it. Gift card is on the way!
