Pricing Transparency and Education at the Forefront
Boardsort, an Ohio-based electronics recycler, is pioneering the standardization of e-scrap pricing with its online platform that provides a transparent, color-coded pricing tool. The platform is designed to educate and inform buyers and sellers in the e-scrap industry. Founded in 2010, Boardsort’s motto, “learn, sell, profit,” emphasizes the importance of customer education, which co-founder Chris Skeeles believes helps both the company and its customers maximize profitability. The website also features informational videos and a community-driven forum where users can discuss pricing, share knowledge, and seek advice on e-scrap materials.
Creating a Standardized E-Scrap Pricing System
Boardsort’s pricing model is based on a color-tagging system that categorizes e-scrap materials into five groups, ranging from high-value items (green) to unsellable or fee-charging items (red). This system aims to standardize e-scrap pricing, which was previously inconsistent and location-dependent. The company’s platform offers regularly updated prices and guides for consumers, ensuring greater pricing clarity across the market.
Building a Community of E-Scrap Recyclers
In addition to offering transparent pricing, Boardsort fosters a strong online community through its message forums and YouTube channel. The forums feature more than 33,000 posts where individuals share tips, discuss materials, and help each other identify and process e-scrap. This community-driven approach helps educate new recyclers and strengthens knowledge exchange in the industry.
Expanding Services for Commercial Recyclers
Boardsort has seen significant growth in its commercial recycling sector, offering a sort-and-settle program for small- and mid-sized recyclers. This service enables businesses to send mixed e-scrap to Boardsort for sorting and grading, after which they are paid at premium rates for well-sorted materials. This offering helps recyclers without advanced sorting technology process their scrap to meet industry standards, allowing them to access higher value returns.
Addressing Safety and Regulatory Challenges
With the increasing volume of lithium-ion batteries in e-scrap, Boardsort has implemented safety measures to mitigate risks such as thermal events. Incoming batteries are isolated in ventilated containers to reduce the potential for fires or other hazards. This focus on safety ensures that Boardsort can manage the growing demand for e-scrap recycling, particularly with materials from the emerging electric vehicle market.
Consistency and Growth as Key Factors for Success
Boardsort’s success lies in its consistent approach to pricing, service, and customer trust. Skeeles emphasizes that reliable pricing and clear grading help maintain strong relationships with customers. As demand for e-scrap recycling continues to grow, Boardsort plans to expand its facilities with an additional warehouse and offices in 2025, further cementing its role as a leader in the industry.
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