Prepare your Apple Watch for Express Replacement Service
After you schedule Express Replacement Service*, you’ll get a kit that has your replacement Apple Watch and everything that you need to send your original Apple Watch to Apple.
Before you return your original Apple Watch
To back up your Apple Watch, unpair it from your iPhone: with your iPhone and Apple Watch close together, open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone. Go to the My Watch tab > All Watches, then tap the Info button next to the watch you want to unpair. Tap Unpair Apple Watch, then tap it again to confirm. If you have a GPS + Cellular model, move your mobile plan.
Remove the band from your Apple Watch. Don’t include the band or any other accessories when you send your original Apple Watch to Apple.
Pack your Apple Watch
Your Express Replacement Service kit includes everything you need to pack up and send your original Apple Watch to Apple – including the box that your replacement Apple Watch arrived in, which you’ll use to send your original watch to Apple.
When you pack your Apple Watch, don’t include anything else in the box – such as the watch strap or other accessories. If you do, they won’t be returned to you.
Place your original Apple Watch in the smaller insert box, then close the insert’s lid. Make sure the screen of your watch faces up.
Place the insert into the larger box, then close it. Make sure the battery sticker is pasted flat on the box and isn’t covered by tape or a postage label.
Send your Apple Watch to Apple
Find the name of the courier on the provided postage label (or elsewhere in the packing materials).
Visit the courier’s website to schedule a pick-up or find a drop-off location.
If a commercial invoice was included with your replacement Apple Watch, attach it to the outside of the box. If you don’t, the package may not be able to be delivered. Commercial invoices are only necessary in some European countries.
Make sure you get proof of collection from the courier to confirm that you’ve returned your original Apple Watch. Apple isn’t responsible for any damage sustained during delivery.
Apple will release the temporary hold on your card after we process your original device and confirm that the issue is covered. If your original device is not returned within 10 working days or is found ineligible for service due to unauthorised modifications or severe damage, the hold will be charged to your card.
*Express Replacement Service is an AppleCare benefit that is not available in all countries or regions.
