Prepare your laptop for sale.

01. Record the machine you are selling

Write down the full make and model, CPU, GPU, RAM and total storage. Check which charger and accessories will be included. Note visible wear and known faults while you can still inspect the machine.

On Windows, Settings → System → About is a useful starting point for the processor and memory. Microsoft explains where to find device information ↗. For the details EXE considers, see our laptop valuation guide.

02. Back up — and check the backup

Save the files you need to your chosen backup location. Open a few important files from that backup to check they are accessible before removing anything from the laptop. Keep account access and any recovery information somewhere safe and separate.

Do not put personal files, passwords or recovery keys in an EXE enquiry. For a work laptop, ask the authorised IT team to handle retained records and approve the preparation process.

03. Sort out accounts and company management

Follow your manufacturer’s handover instructions for account sign-out and activation features. Check subscriptions or licensed software with the relevant provider rather than assume they can pass to a buyer.

Tell EXE about organisation management, account locks or firmware passwords. A company laptop should be released by its authorised administrator using the organisation’s process; do not attempt to bypass a lock. Agree any required evidence or data-handling arrangements before handover.

04. Choose the right data-removal route

Deleting visible files is not the same as assessing whether a device has been prepared safely for its next owner. The ICO advises checking that the chosen method suits the device and the information it contains. A laptop that does not power on may still contain accessible data. Read the ICO’s device-deletion guidance ↗.

05. Gather what is going with it

Remove any personal USB devices and memory cards. Gather the agreed charger and accessories, and check the device and parts against the description you gave EXE. Tell us about anything that has changed since the offer.

If the laptop has a battery concern or damage that may affect safe handling, contact us before attempting to post it. Do not assume ordinary post-in arrangements will be suitable.

06. Agree the handover before travelling or posting

EXE visits are by appointment at 91 Brighton Road, Redhill, RH1 6PS. Agree the timing and what to bring with the team. For UK post-in, confirm the destination, packing and sending arrangements first; do not dispatch an unagreed parcel.

Keep your EXE reference with the enquiry and read what happens after you accept an offer. Your checklist below is held only on this page and resets when you reload.