How It Works
Quick, honest guidance on how Smart Spot Tech mail-in iPhone & iPad repair works — so you always know what happens next.
How Our Mail-In Repair Process Works
A simple, transparent process from checkout to shipping your device back home — no confusion, no hidden pricing, no pressure.
Your $39 diagnostic deposit starts the process and is applied to your final repair total.
- Clear quote before any work is done
- Most repairs completed in 24 hours or less
- Based in Philadelphia, serving all 50 states
Step 1 — Place Your $39 Diagnostic Deposit
Select our Mail-In iPhone & iPad Repair — $39 Diagnostic Deposit product and check out online to officially start your repair.
- The $39 deposit is applied to your final repair total.
- It covers the time, tools, and expertise needed to properly diagnose your device.
- No surprise charges — you’ll see your full quote before we do any paid work.
Not sure if we can repair your device?
Click here to see all devices and repair types we offer.
Step 2 — Complete the Device Intake Form
Right after checkout, you’ll be redirected to our Device Intake Form and also receive a separate email with the link so you can finish it later if needed.
In this form, you’ll tell us:
- Your device model and color.
- The issue you’re experiencing, with any history or details.
- Your passcode (optional, but very helpful for testing).
- Any specific concerns about your data, photos, or work apps.
The more detail you provide, the faster and more accurate your diagnosis will be.
Step 3 — Ship Your Device to Our Repair Lab
After you submit the intake form, we’ll give you simple, clear shipping instructions.
- Pack your device in a sturdy box with padding.
- Do not include cases, chargers, or accessories unless we request them.
- Ship with tracking and insurance (recommended).
When your package arrives at our repair lab in Philadelphia, we check it in and begin diagnostics.
Step 4 — We Diagnose and Send a Clear Quote
Within about 1 business day of receiving your device:
- A technician fully inspects and diagnoses your device.
- We confirm exactly what’s wrong and what it will take to fix it.
- We send you a clear repair quote with all costs listed.
You’re always in control:
- If you approve the quote: we move straight into repair.
- If you don’t proceed: the diagnostic deposit covers the testing and assessment.
Step 5 — We Repair, Test, and Ship It Back
Once you approve the quote:
- We complete your repair using professional-grade parts and tools.
- Your device goes through multi-point testing for function and performance.
- We clean your device and prepare it for safe return shipping.
Most mail-in repairs are completed and back in your hands in about 5–7 business days total, depending on shipping speed and parts availability.
What’s Included with Every Repair
Every mail-in repair follows the same professional, transparent process:
- Expert diagnosis by experienced technicians.
- Clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees.
- Fast turnaround on most common repairs.
- Helpful updates and communication at every stage.
Your Data & Privacy
We treat every device like it’s our own. We only access what’s necessary to diagnose and test your issue.
- We recommend backing up your device before sending it in.
- We do not browse your personal photos, messages, or content.
- Passcodes are used only for testing and then cleared from our workflow.
Mail-In Repair FAQ
How long does the whole process take?
Most repairs are completed and back to you in about 5–7 business days from the time you ship your device, depending on your shipping method and parts availability.
What if you can’t fix my device?
If your device turns out to be non-repairable, we’ll let you know what we found. In that case, the $39 diagnostic deposit covers the time, tools, and testing used to properly assess your device.
Do you repair other devices too?
Yes. We work on a wide range of iPhone and iPad models, and often other devices as well. See our full list of supported devices and repairs.
Where are you located?
We’re based in Philadelphia, PA, and accept mail-in repairs from anywhere in the U.S.
Ready to get your device fixed?
Start your repair in a few clicks — we’ll guide you through every step.
Start My Mail-In Repair