How to prepare your Mac for sale or trade-in

Before you sell or trade in a Mac, you need to back up your data, sign out of Apple accounts and fully erase the content, so the new owner gets a clean machine and your data stays safe. The steps take a few minutes, and if you need help, we do them together at iRestore Chisinau.

Step 1: make a backup

Save your data before any erasing. The simplest method is Time Machine with an external drive (System Settings, General, Time Machine). Alternatively, copy important files manually to iCloud or a USB stick. Check the backup before you go further.

Step 2: sign out of accounts

• iCloud: System Settings, your name, Sign Out.
• iMessage: open Messages, Settings, iMessage, Sign Out.
• Deauthorize iTunes / Music on older Macs, if you bought content.

Without these steps, the new owner can be stuck with "Activation Lock", and you stay tied to the device.

Step 3: erase and reinstall

On modern Macs (with Apple chip or T2) use "Erase All Content and Settings" in System Settings, General, Transfer or Reset. On older models, restart into Recovery mode, erase the disk with Disk Utility and reinstall macOS. In the end the Mac starts fresh, ready to set up.

Step 4: clean it physically

A clean Mac leaves a better impression and can raise your trade-in price. Wipe the screen with a soft cloth, clear dust from the keyboard and ports. Do not use harsh liquids on the screen.

Sell easily through Trade-in

If you do not want to deal with listings and meetings, at iRestore we take your Mac through Trade-in: we value it on the spot and you get credit toward a new or refurbished model. And if it has a small issue, we tell you honestly whether it is worth repairing first or handing over as is.

Frequently asked questions

Could I lose data if I erase incorrectly?
That is why the backup is the first step. If you are unsure, bring the Mac to us and we do the process together, safely.

Do you take older Macs?
Yes, we value models from different generations. The price depends on model and condition.

How long does the preparation take?
The backup depends on the amount of data; erasing and signing out take a few minutes.

Bring your Mac for a valuation on the Trade-in page or drop by at 16 Vasile Alecsandri St, Chisinau.