Before buying any MacBook, the single most useful thing you can do is check its serial number. It tells you the exact model, the year, and whether the device is genuine and still under warranty. Here is how.
Where to find the serial number
There are three places, and they should all match: under Apple menu → About This Mac; printed in small text on the underside of the MacBook; and on the original box. If the numbers do not match, walk away.
Verify it with Apple
Go to Apple's official "Check Coverage" page and enter the serial number. Apple will confirm the model, the purchase/coverage status and whether it is eligible for support. A valid serial that returns the correct model is a strong sign the device is genuine.
What the result tells you
You will see the exact model (helpful because sellers sometimes mislabel year or chip), warranty and AppleCare status, and whether the serial is recognised at all. An unrecognised or "invalid" serial is a major red flag.
Also check Activation Lock
A genuine device can still be unusable if it is locked to someone else's iCloud. Make sure the seller has signed out of iCloud and removed the MacBook from Find My before you pay.
Buy with the serial on your invoice
Always get a GST invoice that lists the device serial number — it is your proof of exactly what you bought. Every Mobirapid device ships with a serial-matched GST invoice and a 6-month warranty, and we will happily verify the serial with you on a video call. Talk to us before you buy.