Working Smarter with Returns: How Device Harvesting Offsets Tariffs and Boosts Efficiency

I. Introduction

Tariffs are reshaping the landscape for electronics manufacturers and distributors, driving up costs across the supply chain. In this new reality, brands are being forced to reevaluate every aspect of their operations—including often-overlooked areas like reverse logistics.

That’s where Slotted and Encore Repair come in. Slotted helps companies connect with the right fulfillment partners who can expertly handle returns, while Encore Repair specializes in recovering and refurbishing valuable components from those returned devices. Together, they create a smarter, more profitable strategy for managing returns.

II. The New Cost Center: Returns in a Tariff-Heavy World

With tariffs increasing the landed cost of new devices, brands are feeling the squeeze. Yet many companies still treat returns as a sunk cost or purely a customer service issue, rather than a potential profit center.

The opportunity is clear: by treating returns as an asset pipeline—rather than a liability—brands can reclaim lost margin, reduce waste, and better weather the pressure of rising costs.

III. What Is Device Harvesting—and Why It Matters Now More Than Ever

Device harvesting is the process of reclaiming usable components from returned or end-of-life devices. It’s a sophisticated form of recycling that not only reduces environmental impact but also adds real financial value back into the business.

Encore Repair is a leader in this space, helping brands:

• Test and sort returned devices to identify viable parts.
• Reuse components in future product builds, reducing material costs.
• Resell valuable parts through profitable secondary channels.

Instead of discarding returned items or replacing them outright, device harvesting allows companies to tap into a hidden inventory of valuable assets.

IV. Turning Returns into Strategic Advantage

Real-world examples show that device harvesting often outperforms outright replacement. Brands working with Encore Repair have seen:

• Higher recovery rates of usable components.
• Reduced cost of goods sold (COGS) through reuse strategies.
• Improved sustainability KPIs, supporting corporate ESG goals.

In many cases, component-level repair is far more profitable than replacing a full unit—and it offers a faster path to revenue recovery.

V. The Logistics Challenge: Getting Returns to the Right Place Fast

To capitalize on harvesting, speed and precision are critical. Returns need to be quickly routed to the right facilities for evaluation and recovery.

That’s where Slotted steps in. Slotted helps brands:

• Find fulfillment partners who specialize in handling returns efficiently.
• Set up smart returns workflows that direct inventory straight to Encore Repair for harvesting.
• Ensure that logistics strategies align with recovery goals—reducing delay and maximizing value.

A strong logistics network ensures that returns aren't wasted opportunities.

VI. Sustainability, Profitability, and the Future of Returns

The benefits of smarter returns go beyond profitability. Companies that embrace device harvesting help:

• Reduce landfill waste and carbon emissions.
• Contribute to a circular economy, supporting broader sustainability initiatives.
• Position themselves as leaders in responsible business practices.

Working with Encore Repair and Slotted allows brands to take a proactive approach, turning returns from a burden into a strategic asset.

VII. Call to Action

It’s time for brands to rethink their returns strategy.

• Work with Slotted to find a fulfillment partner who understands the nuances of reverse logistics.
• Connect with Encore Repair to start monetizing your returns and extending the lifecycle of your devices.

Together, Slotted and Encore Repair help brands boost efficiency, reclaim margin, and build a more sustainable future.