2026 device buyback Buy-Back of Surplus Technology

Talbot County Public Schools (TCPS) in Easton, Maryland is requesting proposals for the buyback of approximately 1,295 surplus Apple and Dell devices, including MacBooks, iPads, Mac Minis, and Dell OptiPlex Micro desktops, with proposals due March 10, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. EST via email or the Maryland e-Marketplace Advantage (eMMA) platform.

The device inventory spans multiple generations and vintages resulting from a coordinated technology refresh cycle. MacBook Air units comprise 480 units combined (224 units 13-inch 2017 model; 256 units M1 2020 model); iPad models total 599 units, with iPad 6th Generation Wi-Fi representing 280 units; additional inventory includes Mac Mini units (14 total), iPad Air (6 units), iPad Pro (5 units), iPhones (2 units), and Dell OptiPlex 7070 Micro desktops (8 units). Device specifications including processor, RAM, and storage capacity are identified as most important to bidders. All devices are fully functional with no cracked screens and are sold "as is, where is" with no warranties after leaving TCPS facilities; vendors have 45 days to inspect and cull non-functional units or those with defects for refund.

Evaluation prioritizes guaranteed highest bid price (70%), vendor history and references (20%), and data erasure and asset tag removal compliance (10%). The selected vendor must perform secure data erasure compliant with Apple Erasure Protocols, NIST, and NAID standards; remove all asset tags and identifying markings; provide a Certificate of Data Destruction; and complete removal from Apple Device Enrollment Program. Payment must be submitted in full via ACH or wire transfer prior to device release, with the vendor responsible for all packing, transportation, and logistics costs. Optional equipment inspections are available February 24–26, 2026, with appointment requests due by February 23. Questions are due February 27, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. TCPS reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and is not obligated to award to the highest bidder.