How to Get the Highest Value for Your Used Technology

Did you know that used technology can cost up to 80% less than new equipment? That's a remarkable saving that many overlook.

In fact, millions of devices are thrown away every year long before their technical lifespan is over. In addition, studies show that a recycled computer has significantly lower carbon emissions compared to a newly manufactured one.

It's a common misconception that getting rid of old IT equipment is expensive. The truth is that selling used technology can not only save money but also significantly reduce environmental impact.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how you can maximize the value of your used technology while contributing to a more sustainable future. We’ll share expert advice and practical tips to help you get the best possible return on your investment.

Understanding the Value of Your Used Technology

The value of used technology has increased significantly in recent years. In the Nordic region, prices have risen by around 30 percent, while the global market has seen increases of up to 100 percent. It is particularly interesting that computers that are five to eight years old show the greatest increase in value.

In addition, new electronic products quickly lose value. A brand-new computer loses 30 percent of its value immediately after opening the package. After that, the value continues to decrease by about 4 percent per month. This means that an investment of SEK 100,000 in new equipment results in an immediate loss of SEK 30,000.

At the same time, studies show that a three-year-old computer can often provide the same performance as a new model. The difference lies primarily in the cost-effective choice - a used computer usually costs half as much as a new one, while delivering equivalent functionality for most tasks.

When it comes to cell phones and other electronics, it is important to note a few crucial factors that affect value:

• The physical condition and functionality of the product

• Battery health and performance

• Available updates and software compatibility

• Original packaging and accessories

The COVID-19 pandemic has also had a significant impact on the market. The increased focus on sustainability and the circular economy has driven up the prices of used electronics. This has created a unique situation where older equipment, especially business computers, has retained its value better than ever before.

To maximize the value of your used technology, it is crucial to research market prices carefully. The price should reflect the condition, age and current market value of the product. Additionally, you should be open to negotiation, but at the same time stick to a price level that reflects the true value of the unit. Click here to access our valuation list.

By understanding these value factors and market trends, you can make informed decisions when selling your used technology. Notably, quality products often retain their value better, especially if they have been well cared for throughout their lifetime.

Preparing Your Technology for Sales

Before selling used technology, careful preparation is required to ensure both safety and maximum value. First and foremost, all personal information must be erased from the device.

A thorough backup is essential before you begin the deletion process. Use either an external hard drive or cloud services to save important files, documents, and images. For corporate equipment, it is also recommended to create manual backups before making major changes.

After backup, the following actions should be taken:

• Delete all private photos and videos from your hard drive

• Deactivate social network profiles

• Delete saved passwords in the browser

• Reset the device to factory settings

For companies that handle large amounts of IT equipment, it is especially important to have a systematic process for data cleansing and preparation. Professional resellers typically conduct a comprehensive verification process that includes both technical testing and physical inspection.

Choosing the Right Sales Channel

When it comes to selling used technology, there are several different channels to choose from. The market for reused electronics has grown significantly, and each channel offers its own unique advantages.

For companies looking to dispose of larger amounts of IT equipment, there are specialized services that CIRKULERAD can help with through NG Metall AB. We handle the entire process from pickup to resale. We also offer secure data erasure and environmental certificates that document reduced climate impact.

Private individuals most often use online marketplaces such as Tradera and Blocket. Blocket has between 4-5 million visitors each week, while Tradera is particularly strong in electronics and has a built-in payment system that increases security. Around 25% of all ads on Blocket are sold within 24 hours.

Conclusion

Used technology represents both a smart financial choice and an environmentally conscious decision. The market has developed significantly in recent years, with prices for some units rising by up to 100 percent.

Successfully selling used technology requires careful preparation. Make sure the device is in the best possible condition, that personal information is erased, and that the device is complete, such as with a charger or power supply.
This significantly increases the likelihood of a good compensation.

The choice of sales channel also plays a crucial role. Whether you choose professional buyback companies or established marketplaces like Blocket and Tradera, there are options to suit your needs.

Ultimately, it's not just about financial gain. By selling your used technology, you actively contribute to a more sustainable future. Every unit that gets a second life reduces the need for new production and thus also the environmental impact.

FAQs

Q1. How much can I expect to get for my used computer? The value of a used computer varies depending on several factors, but in general, a computer's value decreases by about 4% per month. A three-year-old computer can often be sold for about half the price of a new model with similar performance. Want to know more about what your model is worth today? Here you can see what we pay for used computers in our price list.

Q2. Is it worth buying a used computer? Yes, used computers can be an excellent choice. They often offer equivalent performance to new models for most tasks, but at a significantly lower price. Many refurbished computers undergo rigorous testing and are sold with a warranty. To access our range, see here!

Q3. How do I prepare my device for sale? Start by backing up all important data. Then erase all personal information, restore the device to factory settings, and clean it thoroughly. Save the charger and other accessories if possible, as this can increase the value.

Q4. What is the best channel to sell my used technology? It depends on your needs. Professional buyback companies offer fast and secure sales, while online marketplaces like Blocket and Tradera can offer higher prices but require more work. For businesses, there are specialized services that handle larger volumes. Read more here

Q5. How is the COVID-19 pandemic affecting the used technology market? The pandemic has increased focus on sustainability and the circular economy, which has driven up the prices of used electronics. Business computers in particular have held their value better than before, with price increases of up to 30% in the Nordics.