Prepare your AirPods, AirPods Pro, or AirPods Max for Express Replacement Service

After you schedule Express Replacement Service*, you'll get a kit that has your replacement AirPods and everything that you need to send your original product to Apple.

Before you return your original AirPods, AirPods Pro, or AirPods Max

• Remove your AirPods from your Apple Account: In the Find My app, select the Devices tab > select your AirPods, then swipe up and tap Remove This Device. Tap Remove to confirm.

• If you're sending AirPods Pro, remove the ear tips and keep them in a safe place. If you're sending AirPods Max, be sure to remove the ear cushions. If you include your ear tips or ear cushions, they won't be returned.

Pack your original AirPods or AirPods Pro

Your Express Replacement Service kit includes everything that you need to pack and send your original product to Apple — including the small product box and larger shipping box that your replacement product arrived in, which you use to pack and send your original product back to Apple.

Don't include anything else in the boxes — like your ear tips, USB cable, power adapter, or other accessory. Additionally, you should include only the AirPods components for which you filed your claim (for example, if you filed your claim for the right earbud, send only the right earbud). If you include extra items in the box, they won't be returned to you.

Depending on whether you’re sending in one or both earbuds or the charging case, you might not have to follow all steps to pack your original AirPods or AirPods Pro.

1. Use the small white box or boxes included in your kit to pack your AirPods. For each earbud that you’re sending in, slide the stem of the earbud into the paper tube inside of the box. Then, close the box.

   

2. Put the small product box or boxes into the same larger shipping box that was delivered to you. Make sure the battery sticker is pasted flat on the box and isn't covered by tape or a shipping label.

   

If you're sending in your charging case

If you’re sending the original Wireless Charging Case, put it into the small box in which your replacement charging case arrived. Put the small product box or boxes into the same larger shipping box that was delivered to you. Make sure the battery sticker is pasted flat on the box and isn't covered by tape or a shipping label.

Pack your original AirPods Max

Follow these steps to prepare your AirPods Max:

1. Remove your ear cushions and keep them in a safe place for later use.

   

2. Place each ear piece inside a separate bag.

   

3. Rotate the ear pieces and face them downward, then place your AirPods Max into the tray. Place the lid on the box.

   

4. Place the product box into the shipping box and close it. (Do not include your ear cushions, USB cable, power adapter, or other accessories. If you include extra items in the box, we won't be able to return them to you.)

   

5. Seal the box with tape and mail the box to Apple.* Make sure the battery sticker is pasted flat on the box and isn't covered by tape or a shipping label.

   

Ship your original product to Apple

1. Find the name of the courier on the provided return shipping label.

2. Visit the courier’s website to schedule a pickup or find a drop-off location.

Make sure to get a receipt to confirm that you have returned your original product. Apple isn't responsible for any damage during shipping.

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 business days or is found ineligible for service due to unauthorized modifications or severe damage, the hold will be charged to your card.