Apple care usually comes with a box that just has some papers in it. Basically useless. The last time I bought Apple Care, the store was out of the boxes. I asked if I needed it for any reason and was told 'No." They told me that my Apple Care purchase was already registered online with Apple, that the product (Mac Mini in my case) serial number, etc. was already entered. They told my that my receipt showing the Apple Care purchase was all I needed by way of proof should any controversy arise. So, as long as you've got your receipt showing you bought the Apple Care, you should be OK.
