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8 Ways a Tech Reverse Logistics Partner Enables a Circular Economy

 

Looking to engage with a technology reverse logistics partner but unsure of the circular economy benefits? The move from a linear economy to a circular one is gaining more traction. It can save you money, boost your sustainability efforts, and improve efficiencies with your IT assets.

We’re not like your typical 3PL company. Here at Ingram Micro Lifecycle, we provide extra value-added services alongside those standard of a 3PL company. We provide innovative solutions via a collaborative approach, relishing the opportunity. Technology is ever-evolving, and solutions must remain agile.

At the end of this article, you’ll understand eight ways a reverse logistics partner can go the extra mile in enabling a circular economy.

Two routes to the same destination

There are different routes for your journey to a circular economy for your technology. Although the result is the same, the differing factor is where the ownership of the device sits.

The owner is either the end-user customer or a business. Business owners include retailers, operators, insurers, and OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers).

Route 1: The end user owns the device

The device goes back to them, and their experience is at the forefront. The aim should be to deliver a seamless experience resulting in satisfaction and retention.

We’ve all been there – we know how frustrating it is to not have the technology we’ve become so reliant on. Your partner should keep the end user in the loop at every step, communicating when necessary.

But not too often! This reassures the end user that they’re understood and are important. The end user wants an easy experience to get their desired outcome, not a battle at every step.

Speed is of the essence in limiting the device downtime that users experience. Vast product knowledge and experience are key to continuity.

Route 2: There is no device user

This process is all about extending the lifecycle of the technology. Again, speed is key.
Whether you want to redeploy, recycle or resell your devices, a fast turnaround minimizes the associated risks of:

  • customer frustration
  • data security
  • loss of money
  • Your reverse logistics partner should work fast to get your devices to a near-new state so they can get reused wherever they need to be.

Data-bearing devices will be securely wiped so they remain compliant, and mishandled data isn’t a threat to your brand integrity. Process and repackage unwanted stock sitting on your balance sheet, ready to recover maximum value via omnichannel sales.

8 ways a reverse logistics partner supports circularity

There are standard 3PL providers who offer a straightforward service. There are extra bells and whistles that you can look for, which will make sure you and your customers get added value.
When looking for a reverse logistics company to partner with, these are eight extra-value services that will support your adoption of a circular economy.
1. Genuine, approved repairs

Make sure your reverse logistics partner has OEM accreditations. This provides access to original replacement parts and approved processes. Devices will be efficiently repaired using genuine parts to the manufacturers’ standards. This supports the longevity of use.

Parts harvesting occurs when a device is beyond economical repair. This enables cost-effective remanufacturing of similar devices.

Repairers should check devices for Find My iPhone or alternative blocks to ensure the device can be reused. They should conduct software updates to ensure that devices are up to date.

2. Increased accessibility of products

The repair processes provide a pool of high-grade devices, in an as-new condition, to be redeployed or remarketed. Your partner will be able to provide you with an accessible lower-cost option that has a lower environmental impact when compared to the manufacture and purchase of new devices.

When supply chains face instability, this ensures a reliable supply of products as you can use repaired/refurbished rather than be reliant on the supply of new ones.

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