A simple, transparent, and compliant take-back process is essential to deliver a compelling trade-in experience for customers.
Together with our clients, TechProtect ensures that the return of used devices runs smoothly: from initial registration to reuse or recycling.
- Purchase a New Device and Register the Old One for Return
The trade-in process typically begins with the purchase of a new device. Immediately afterwards, the old device can be easily registered for return.
To make this step as simple and user-friendly as possible, a customized landing page is created. Depending on the setup, there are two options:
- The client creates the landing page independently
- Or our specialised team handles the concept and implementation, tailored precisely to the requirements of the take-back process
Using this page, customers can register their return quickly and intuitively. The entire process remains fully aligned with the client’s brand, while TechProtect manages the operational execution in the background.
- Flexible Return Options: Collection or Return Label
To ensure maximum convenience, we offer different return options depending on the size, weight, and number of devices.
For smaller packages, customers can generate a return label via a provided link and drop off their package at a logistics provider or collection point. This option is suitable for packages up to 20 kg.
For higher volumes, such as when multiple devices are returned, our logistics partner arranges a collection directly from the customer’s location. Depending on the volume, this is handled either via parcel service (up to 31.5 kg) or freight forwarding.
- Inspection and Sorting at the Audit Center
Once received, all devices are processed centrally at one of our audit centers. This is where systematic recording, inspection, and sorting of returned devices take place.
An audit center functions as a specialised inspection and sorting hub for returns. TechProtect operates approximately 30 local sites in different countries. This enables short transport routes, efficient and scalable processes, and reliable compliance with national regulatory requirements.
In this way, we ensure that the entire process is optimised both economically and in terms of compliance.
- Reuse or Recycling
After inspection, the next step is determined based on the predefined processing option.
Functional devices are either reused or introduced into the secondary market, extending their lifecycle and conserving valuable resources. Devices that are no longer suitable for reuse are professionally recycled. In this process, raw materials are efficiently recovered and returned to the material cycle.
Currently, our primary focus lies on product categories such as printers and presentation systems. At the same time, we continuously monitor new markets and actively explore how additional industries and product categories such as wearables like smartwatches can be meaningfully integrated into existing trade-in and reverse logistics concepts. This includes evaluating both technical and operational requirements and developing suitable implementation approaches together with our partners.
A well-designed trade-in process not only enhances the customer experience but also makes a significant contribution to the circular economy.
With TechProtect and our sister company 1cc GmbH, companies benefit from a scalable, compliant, and fully integrated solution from initial registration to final processing.