When your business upgrades its computers, devices, and other electronic equipment for newer, more advanced technology, you're faced with the question of what to do with the old items. Many of them likely have some value left, so you may be reluctant to discard them. Moreover, you don't want to contribute to landfill waste. Electronics recycling is a good choice, but it's not your only option. Below is a list of suggestions for what to do with old technology so you don't have to throw items in the trash.

What to Do With Old Technology After an Upgrade

1. Sell It

In some cases, you may be able to sell your old equipment, whether piecemeal or in total. The amount you get in return depends on its age and the number of product iterations that have occurred since you bought it, but don't expect to recover all–or even most–of the original purchase price. Technology has a steep depreciation curve.

2. Trade It In

If you do not wish to bother with the hassle of a private sale, you might be able to trade old equipment into the dealer from whom you're buying the upgrade. Since their goal will be to profit from it, you'll certainly receive less than you could expect on the private market. Nevertheless, it's better than simply discarding the devices.

3. Donate It

If you cannot find a buyer or a dealer who'll pay you for your old technology, consider donating it. There are likely a number of schools, institutes, or charities that would be grateful for your cast-off equipment and would put it to good use. Moreover, the donation might qualify you for a tax write-off.

4. Recycle It

Before simply throwing your old technology away, drop it off with an electronics recycling service. They'll dismantle the equipment, resell what internal components they can, and recycle the remainder as scrap, rare earth, or precious metals. Although some small portion of what you drop off may end up as waste, far less will reach the landfill than if you simply tossed the works into the trash.

Instead of discarding items that cannot be sold or donated, consider an electronics recycling company like Pacific Commercial Services in Hawaii. They have also been offering the state’s finest environmental remediation and industrial cleaning services since 2001. Visit their website to submit a contact form or call (808) 545-4599 to discuss your electronics recycling needs.