How to Prepare a Laptop Before Selling or Trading It In
Careful preparation protects your data and helps the inspection run more smoothly. Follow these steps before final handover.
A checklist for backing up data, signing out of accounts, recording condition and preparing accessories before a laptop inspection.
- The backup has been tested
- All accounts have been signed out
- Activation Lock or Find My has been disabled
1. Back up important files
Copy documents, photos, browser data and work files to storage or a cloud account that you control. Open several files from the backup to confirm that it works.
2. Sign out and remove account locks
Sign out of Microsoft, Apple, Google and licensed applications. For a MacBook, disable Find My and Activation Lock. Never give your account password to a buyer.
3. Record the device condition
Photograph every side, the screen, keyboard, ports, charger and any damage. Record the model and specifications before resetting the device.
4. Reset at the right time
Photos and device information are usually enough for an initial review. Complete the reset before handover once your backup is secure and the team's instructions are clear.
Before You Continue
- The backup has been tested
- All accounts have been signed out
- Activation Lock or Find My has been disabled
- Condition photos have been saved
- Charger and accessories are ready
- Personal data has been removed before handover