How To Start An Electronics Recycling Business

In this era of increasing awareness about environmental concerns and directives to reduce, reuse, and recycle, many states are making it easier to start an electronics recycling business. It is in the best interest of state legislators to encourage and partner with such business entities in order to deal with the increasing amounts of e-waste which often end up in landfills.

Each state in this country has different rules and regulations regarding any entity which deals with used electronics equipment, however, most of them are quite similar in scope. There is usually a distinction made between operations which simply collect or transport electronics as opposed to those facilities which perform actual disassembly and reclamation of valuable components such as metals and plastics. All states require some sort of record-keeping system be instituted and the records provided periodically to the appropriate agency. Some state governments also regulate how long hazardous waste can be stored before it must be transported. Check with your locality before you start an electronics recycling business.

Because most electronic devices contain hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, cadmium and toxic chemicals, all states regulate how they are handled and classify them as household hazardous waste. Finding and collecting used and outdated electronics is usually not a problem. Most households have a variety of equipment which needs proper disposal. This is truly an excellent time to start an electronics recycling business.

Best Practices in Your Electronics Recycling Business

As discussed, each state is different in its particular requirements. However, there are some best practices which apply when you start an electronics recycling business.

• Find a legitimate and licensed recycling or waste management facility which will you pay you top dollar for transporting electronics equipment for their use.

• Ensure you are in compliance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations for transporting hazardous waste. You may need a special license to do so.

• Containers for storage of discarded electronics need to be structurally sound and kept from extreme heat. They should also be properly labeled.

• Cathode ray tubes usually require different handling and storage than other electronics components and may also need to be transported to alternate facilities. If you accept televisions or computer monitors you need to be aware of these special requirements.

• Keep detailed records regarding place of pickup, amount of equipment collected, and length of storage for all electronics devices.

Of course, just as with any other venture, be sure you have adequate financing, proper facilities, and research the competition before you start an electronics recycling business. By keeping these tips in mind, you should be on your way to making a profit through recycling electronics in no time.