Packing up iMac for trade in

Apple explicitly states they are not responsible for any damage incurred in shipping, so the provided packaging doesn't inspire confidence. The last Apple support person I talked to said I was supposed to use my own box! She evidently didn't even know what Apple says about trade-ins. The post above with photo does look helpful so I may try that.

In contrast to the iMac shipping which I originally posted, I just got a box to send in an iPad for credit and there were instructions included as well as a link to better online instructions. That said, the iPad still moved around so I taped it down in several places. The instructions did also say there was no need to include the charging items.

Same problem, no instructions

I also have received a box and don't have a clue how to pack my iMac into the box ... I did get mailing label however...

I read the instructions on the linked page and packing is still very confusing. A video would be very helpful.

I didn’t receive that type of packing box so that video doesn’t help.

Well you don't state what country you are in there isn't much of a chance you will find the right instructions. Keep trying

Here you go!

iMac Packaging for Apple Trade In

Thanks rkaufmann87

Your packing label is usually nowadays under the address label used to ship it to you - peel that off very carefully and you should see a label for the return. Also please use the following link to learn how to box it up iMac Packaging for Apple Trade In. Finally in order to prepare the old Mac correctly please use What to do before you sell, give away, or trade in your Mac

The box I received doesn't contain any foam or packaging as mentioned in the linked Apple support article.

Here is what I think you're supposed to do with a box with a cardboard insert covered with plastic wrap:

1. Lift up the cardboard flap with the plastic so the hole is at the bottom.
   1. Note: The plastic should be on the side of the box facing away from you.
2. Place the iMac in the box so the screen is facing you.
3. Lift the cardboard flap out of the box and hold it vertically, above your iMac. See where this is going?
4. Patiently slide it over the iMac, so the plastic sheet holds it securely against the insert in the middle of the box.
   1. The glass should be flush against the cardboard.
   2. The stand should be sticking through the hole at the bottom, and
   3. The back should be visible through the plastic.

Then, once you've assembled your cardboard / iMac / plastic sandwich, lower the cardboard insert back into the box. I taped my powercord to the inside of the box, so it won't bump around.

Good luck!

The iMac trade-in is worth over $900, and Apple has a 3rd party company send a "trade in kit" with no instructions on how to protect the computer, a couple of slabs of cardboard and some plastic shrink wrap which tears right off the cardboard as soon as you try stretching it over the iMac.

Will Apple please respond to this thread and offer suggestions or specific instructions on how to ship the computer in this packaging?