Eight major manufacturers offer free prepaid mail-back labels for their products in 2026. If you can't get to a retail drop-off, mail-back is the easiest free recycling path. Here are the eight programs that actually work.
Reviewed by the eCycling Central editorial team - last updated May 2026
Top Services Compared
| Service | Best for | Cost / payout |
|---|
| Apple GiveBack | Any Apple product | Free shipping + trade-in if eligible |
| Samsung Direct Recycling | Any Samsung device | Free shipping label |
| HP Planet Partners | HP printers, ink, laptops | Free shipping label |
| Canon Recycling | Canon cameras, printers, ink | Free UPS label |
| Epson Recycling | Epson printers, ink, scanners | Free shipping label |
| Microsoft Trade-In | Surface, Xbox + any Windows laptop | Free + trade-in credit |
| Google Trade-in | Pixel phones, Nest devices | Free shipping label |
| Sony Recycling | Sony electronics + PlayStation | Free shipping label |
How to Choose
Pick by what you're disposing of and where you live:
Related Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Which option offers better trade-in value?
Trade-in value varies by device condition, age, and buyback service. Manufacturer programmes (Apple, Samsung, Google) offer convenience + store credit. Third-party services (Music Magpie, BackMarket, Swappa, Decluttr) often pay 10-25% more in cash. Compare 7 buyback prices via our [Trade-In Best Price Finder](/tools/trade-in-best-price-finder).
Which has better data security?
Look for: (a) NIST 800-88 sanitisation method specified per drive type, (b) Certificate of Destruction available, (c) chain-of-custody documentation, (d) R2v3 or e-Stewards certified processor. Free Certificate of Destruction template: our [GDPR Data Erasure Certificate Generator](/tools/gdpr-erasure-certificate-generator).
Which is more environmentally responsible?
In order: (1) repair + continue using, (2) trade-in + resale + reuse, (3) refurbishment for second-life, (4) material recovery via certified recycler, (5) controlled disposal at hazardous-waste facility. Both options compared in this guide rank above landfill.
How do certifications affect my choice?
For regulated data: R2v3 + e-Stewards + ISO 14001 + ISO 27001 + NAID AAA are the gold standard. For consumer recycling: at minimum R2v3 or e-Stewards downstream processor. Ask the recycler which certification standard the actual processor holds (not just the front-of-house operator).
Which is best for businesses with 20+ devices?
For commercial scale, use a certified ITAD provider. Better economics, audit-defensible Certificate of Destruction, and resale optimisation on premium hardware. Request quotes from 3 vetted providers via our [B2B ITAD Quote Service](/business/it-asset-disposition).
