Get Cash and Credit for Your Old Gear
According to CNN (which just published a nice roundup on what to do with your old gear), TechForward Inc. is trying to get American consumers used to the idea of temporary ownership. For a small fee -- $9 on an iPod at the time of purchase -- you'll be able to send your gear back to TechForward for cash. Granted, at $40 for a year-old iPod ($20 for 2 years, etc.), you could do better on eBay, but TechForward will provide you with packing materials and pay for shipping and handling. Plus, you don't have to worry about checking feedback or having strangers from CraigsList showing up at your place.
New Co. is also trying to get eco-friendly and breathe new life into old gear. The company runs the warranty programs for BestBuy and Wal-Mart, and will be launching ecoNew in those stores in the second quarter of this year. Unlike TechForward, New Co. charges no fee, and no shipping. Instead, you'll deliver your old equipment to a participating outlet and receive store credit for it, though estimated prices weren't available. Some of your dust-gathering gear may not be eligible for ecoNew however. Non-LCD monitors, printers, and cell phones are not eligible for either credit or New's free recycling program.
From CNN
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