Do I have to erase content for battery replacement?

My iPhone SE 1st gen needs a new battery and I want to send it in the mail to Apple to have my battery replaced. But my problem is, I've read that to do so you have to "erase all content and settings." I don't want to do that, as everything from passwords saved on my phone to app placement, would have to manually be redone as backups don't make it like it was exactly.

So if I set up a repair, and send it to them (with a apha numeric unlock code to protect privacy) will the technicians still replace the battery?

Thanks for any replies.