How to Buy Used Ink Cartridges
Used ink cartridges are not always at the end of their life span. Many may be refilled or recycled to make use of the material components of the canisters. Empty ink cartridges are commonly thrown away and shipped to landfills where they join other refuse. These items do not biodegrade and may still contain harmful chemicals. Finding and purchasing used ink cartridges allows you to help the environment and possibly even make money through recycling or refilling services.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Contact local office supply stores and ask if they will set up an ink cartridge exchange with you. Many customers of these stores are looking for a way to recycle their cartridges and may be willing to give them to you at no cost or in exchange for a discount coupon toward future purchases at the stores. Offer to pay the stores a nominal amount for collecting used cartridges from their customers or supplying coupons.
-
2
Provide your partners with a colorful box display where users may simply deposit the cartridges without bothering the sales staff or taking away from the business. It should indicate the benefits of cartridge reuse or recycling. This is especially important if you are not compensating customers for their cartridges.
-
-
3
Call local paper or metal recycling centers and offer to set up an advertisement joint venture. Offer them a logo and telephone number on your boxes to advertise their benefits if they place one of their boxes in their customer center for you. Depending on the level of your success and your partners' confidence in the venture, you may even be able work out recycling-themed bumper stickers or local advertisements to further the visibility of all involved.
-
4
Create a flyer that announces your interest in used cartridges and place it on local organization boards. Common locations include schools, universities, office meeting spaces and public forums.
-
5
Check eBay and other websites where people look to sell used items. You can often pay others to collect cartridges for about the same costs you might pay working locally.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Watch shipping costs when doing business with people not located nearby. These may exceed the benefits you gain from the purchase.
