subject: The Current Bad Press Directed at Handset Recycling [print this page] The Current Bad Press Directed at Handset Recycling
Several clients have planned to trade in their phones for cash, but as the cash was deposited into their bank account people noticed the payment was for the broken rate and not the higher rate paid for working handsets. You really need to avoid this in order to milk the true value of your mobile. The following few paragraphs should aid you in doing this:
Don't try to pass off your broken handset as a working one.
Recycling companies that you sell your old mobiles to will test your mobile phone, a broken display or a phone that wont turn on is easy to spot and only takes a few seconds, however, some underlying issues are less obvious. Some people have heard tails of people getting paid the premium working rate even though they have sent in a mobile with a damaged mic or speaker, however, these are the exception not the rule. Testing these faculties is becoming more and more efficient, quick and automated. Even if the mobile handset has a discrete breakage then it will most likely be noticed. If your handset is not working you are better off been honest in advance to make sure the transaction is processed quickly and effectively. Minor software/hardware faults can slip through the net but if you choose to go down this road then you must be prepared for the consequences and you could well find yourself having to pay to have the handset returned to you if you cannot come to some agreement.
Wear and tear is expected.
The price you are offered has handset wear and tear factored in and the handset is expect to have been put to substantial use. Many people use a handset for 5-6 years, some people are heavy users whereas others only use their phones in emergencies. Worn out keys, chips, scratches and small dents are all acceptable. The best way to decide if a phone is subject to wear and tear or actually classed as damaged is to ask yourself if the handset is mealy damaged cosmetically or if there is any functional damage.
The charger.
Lots of companies ask for your charger along with the handset, even if this too is broken. You will need to double check with the company you choose.
The recycle mobile organisation website is the best place to look in the UK for details of recycling broken mobiles.
