IT Asset Recovery Guide

What is IT Asset Recovery?

IT Asset recovery is part of the IT asset lifecycle.

IT asset recovery is the process of maximising value from outdated or redundant IT equipment, including repurposing, reselling, recycling, or disposing of assets while ensuring data security and compliance with industry regulations.

IT asset recovery is essential for all organisations and each once should have lifecycle management strategy in place. This can help to reduce waste and also safeguard company data.

An example of IT asset recovery could be when a remote member of staff leaves the company. It is the responsibility of the organisation to retrieve any IT equipment they may have safely and securely.

What types of IT assets can be recovered?

IT asset recovery can include any of the following assets:

• Mobile phones
• PCs
• Laptops
• Photocopiers
• Printers
• Fax machines
• CRT Monitors
• TFT Monitors
• Terminals
• Servers
• Hard Drives
• Data tapes
• Networking equipment
• Audio visual equipment
• UPS
• EPOS
• Testing equipment
• Associated peripheral items
• Electrical appliances

Unlike some of our competitors, we pride ourselves on taking all IT & mobile equipment.

Why is data security crucial in IT asset recovery?

If not properly managed, end-of-life electronics can expose your company to many risks when they leave your business, including:

• Digital data breach
• Environmental Liability caused by improper disposal of equipment
• Compliance risk

Choose ICT Reverse for your asset recovery and your company can effectively track, certify, and document the secure disposal of IT equipment. The technical process will vary depending on the product type and customer requirements.  In most cases, a data erasure process is performed to all data bearing assets using Blancco software.  Any items that fail the data erasure process are removed and destroyed using the crusher or shredder. This will ensure that you protect your reputation and avoid any legal pitfalls.

Benefits of IT asset recovery

• Environmental impact and sustainability

The production, use and disposal of electronic equipment generates a significant amount of carbon, a major contributor to climate change. The UK is the 2nd highest contributor of e-waste in the world and over the last 15 years, the amount of e-waste in the UK has doubled. By ensuring equipment is re-used, reduced and responsibly recycled, we encourage carbon avoidance and generate carbon savings.

• Cost savings and resource optimisation

An effective IT asset management strategy can lead to significant savings, increased productivity at the end of life, and revenue generation from redundant assets (depending on value). By doing this, companies can unlock value from decommissioned equipment and to help with the ROI.

• Compliance with regulations and standards

Organisations that choose a reputable and accredited ITAD such as ICT Reverse will have peace of mind that they comply with all the necessary regulations and standards. With an ever-increasing number of regulations within the reverse logistics industry, ICT Reverse is extremely vigilant about maintaining a full understanding of our regulatory compliance requirements. Please visit our resources section for more information.

How to recover IT assets

Our process for the recovery of IT assets is really simple.

• Secure Collection. We will arrange a secure collection of your IT equipment on a date and time convenient to you. At this stage, your order will be allocated a unique reference known as an (AAR). Once collected and returned to our approved, authorised, treatment facility (AATF) the data bearing items will be segregated into non-hazardous and hazardous WEEE (waste electrical and electronic equipment).

• Secure Asset Tagging. Every item will be logged against the unique AAR number in order to provide you with a full asset management report for your redundant equipment. At this point a barcode label is produced with a unique reference number to that asset within the AAR number. This is displayed as a barcode on the asset and is scanned at each stage of the process which updates our system of its status and location.

• Secure Data Wiping & Destruction. The technical process will then vary depending on the product type and customer requirements. In most cases, a data erasure process is performed to all data bearing assets using Blancco software. Any items that fail the data erasure process are removed and destroyed using the crusher or shredder.

• Data Destruction Certificate. Following the process, you will receive a full Due Diligence Pack including all the necessary certification to demonstrate that you comply with the latest legislation in the event of an Environmental Audit. This includes a Duty of Care Waste Transfer Certificate, Asset Audit Report, Recovery Certificate, Blancco Report (if applicable) & Data Destruction Certificate (if applicable).

Choosing the right IT asset recovery provider

Make sure you consider the following factors when choosing and IT asset recovery provider:

• Provider

Experience and expertise is essential. It is a good idea to choose an ITAD with a proven IT asset recovery track record, preferably with industry experience.  In addition to this, certifications and compliance standards are critical. Look for a provider who complies with industry standards. Customer testimonials and references are also helpful in determining the quality of a provider's asset recovery services.

• Data security measures

Providers should have secure data wiping and destruction protocols in place, as well as a chain of custody and data tracking system. 

• Environmental responsibility

Environmental responsibility is also essential. Choose a provider with a commitment to responsible recycling and e-waste recycling certifications. Look into their environmental policies and practices, such as their carbon footprint and energy usage. 

• Reporting and documentation

Finally, reporting and documentation should be comprehensive. The provider should issue data destruction and recycling certificates, audit trails, and compliance documentation. This information should be easily accessible and transparent.

IT Asset Recovery FAQs:

• How does IT asset recycling benefit the environment?

IT asset recycling benefits the environment by reducing electronic waste, conserving natural resources, and lowering carbon footprints. It prevents pollution by safely managing toxic substances found in electronic devices. Additionally, it promotes sustainable practices and ensures compliance with environmental regulations, protecting ecosystems and human health while fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.

• How can organisations ensure compliance with regulations in IT asset recovery?

Organisations can ensure compliance with regulations in IT asset recovery by following industry standards and obtaining necessary certifications, such as [Insert UK regulation standards] (Environmental Management). They should implement robust data security measures, maintain accurate records, and use certified and reputable recovery service providers. Regular audits and staying updated with regulatory changes also help in maintaining compliance and protecting sensitive information.

• What certification should an IT asset recovery company have?

1. Industry Accreditations: look for proof of competence backed by industry acclaim. Relevant certifications like ISO 27001, ISO 9001, and ISO 14001 signal commitment to data security, customer satisfaction, and eco-friendly practices.

2. Regulatory Compliance: ensure the company adheres to regulations, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive. Non-adherence risks severe legal penalties.

• Is IT asset recovery cost-effective?

The cost of IT recycling depends on your list of items. As standard, we charge £249+VAT per pallet up to 250kg. However depending on the value of your assets, we can sometimes offer a free service. Our account manager will advise you on this when quoting.