Where can you find the serial number of your MacBook?
Selling your MacBook. Claiming warranty. Contacting Apple Support. For all these situations, you need that one number: the serial number . Sounds simple, but where's that thing again? On the box you threw away? In an email from three years ago?
However, most people don't know that Apple hides your serial number in three places—one of which you probably use every day without realizing it. What's more, even if your MacBook is stolen or you've already traded it in at a refurbished dealer , you can still retrieve the number. This is handy if you want to check if your old MacBook is still being sold somewhere.
Below are three ways that always work – from obvious to surprisingly clever.
Useful links
Why is the serial number important?
Your MacBook's serial number is more than just a random string of letters and numbers. This unique identifier is your key to Apple's support services, warranty information, and repair status. It's also essential when selling or trading in your device—buyers always want to verify its authenticity and specifications first.
Every MacBook has a unique 12-character serial number. This allows Apple to determine exactly when your laptop was manufactured, its specifications, and whether it's still under warranty. This is useful when you want to know if you're eligible for a free battery replacement or other recall programs.
Method 1: On the bottom of your MacBook
The most straightforward way is to simply turn your laptop over. On older models (up to around 2012), the serial number is engraved on the aluminum, usually near the hinges. The text is small but clearly legible if you look closely.
For newer models from 2012 onwards the situation is slightly different:
- MacBook Air: The number is on the bottom, near the hinges
- MacBook Pro: Look for the small text between the feet
- MacBook (12-inch): Check the bottom near the center
Tip: Take a photo with your phone and zoom in—it's easier to read than with the naked eye. The serial number usually begins with letters like C02, F4, or DG.
Method 2: Via the Apple menu
This method only works if your MacBook is still functioning and you can log in:
- Click on the Apple logo at the top left of your screen
- Select 'About This Mac'
- The serial number appears immediately in the overview window
- Click on the number to copy it to your clipboard
In this screen you will also immediately see other useful information such as:
- Model and year of production
- Processor and memory
- macOS version
- Storage capacity
You can also find the serial number through System Information. Hold down the Option key while clicking the Apple menu, select "System Information," and look under "Hardware."
Method 3: Online via your Apple ID
This option is ideal if you no longer own your MacBook, for example, because you've already sold or traded it in. It's also useful if the device is broken or won't start up.
Steps:
- Go to appleid.apple.com
- Log in with your Apple ID and password (use two-factor authentication if necessary)
- Scroll to the 'Devices' heading
- Click on your MacBook in the list
- The serial number is now displayed
The advantage of this method: you see all the devices that have ever been linked to your Apple ID. Even that old MacBook from 2015 that you've long since sold is probably still there.
Additional options for finding your serial number
Through the original packaging
Do you always keep the box? Then the serial number is located on the barcode sticker on the outside. You can also usually find this number on the receipt or invoice for your purchase.
In iTunes (older versions)
For MacBooks with Touch Bar, you can also find the serial number via iTunes. Connect your laptop, select the device, and click the "Summary" tab.
Via Terminal
For the techies: Open Terminal and type the command:
system_profiler SPHardwareDataType | grep "Serial Number"
What can you do with the serial number?
Once found, you can use the number for:
- Warranty Check: Go to checkcoverage.apple.com to see if you still have AppleCare+
- Requesting support: Apple Support always asks for this number first
- Looking up specs: Sites like everymac.com provide detailed specs based on the serial number
- Report theft: the serial number is essential when reporting the theft
- Preparing to sell: Buyers want to check the number before paying
Security and privacy
Share your serial number only with trusted parties. While it doesn't pose a direct security risk, scammers can use it for fake warranty claims or phishing attempts posing as Apple Support.
When selling through Marktplaats: only provide the complete serial number after a serious offer. For verification, interested parties can simply provide the first and last three characters.
Troubleshooting
Can't find the serial number anywhere? Possible solutions:
- Check old Apple order confirmation emails
- Check your accounting for the purchase invoice
- Please contact the store where you purchased the device
- As a last resort, Apple Support can sometimes help with proof of purchase
Is the serial number faded or illegible? Try using a flashlight at different angles—sometimes that helps make the engraved text more visible. If you have any doubts about its authenticity, you can always contact Apple Support for verification.
Conclusion: Finding the serial number is easy
So finding your MacBook's serial number isn't rocket science. Whether you choose the direct route on the bottom of your laptop, use the Apple menu, or log in with your Apple ID, you'll have the number within a minute. Useful for warranty checks , support, or if you want to sell your MacBook .
Store the number somewhere safe, share it only with trusted parties, and you'll be prepared for any situation where Apple or a buyer requests it. Simple, but essential.
