FAQ: General

Overview of general questions about Brainscape.

Answers to general questions

Below, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked general questions. If you cannot find the answer to your question after browsing through this FAQ section, please do not hesitate to contact us.

How do I request a pickup or buyback for my IT equipment?

Request a quote. You will immediately receive packaging and labeling instructions and a proposal for planning and transport. Upon receipt, you will receive a tracking number and, after processing, the certificates and, optionally, the detailed report.

In which regions are you active?

We serve the whole of Belgium and, through our regular partners, also handle cross-border collections within Europe. Our hub and main warehouse are located in Schoten, from where we can respond quickly.

Do you assist with CSRD and ESG reporting?

Yes. Our reports include inflow, reuse percentages, and material flows per batch or period. This data complies with common ESG frameworks and can be easily integrated into your CSRD reporting. Upon request, we can provide a summary of the most important KPIs.

What collection containers does Brainscape provide?

To make the collection of your end-of-life electronics and IT equipment as straightforward and secure as possible, Brainscape offers the following containers:

  • Roll container: a robust, lockable collection solution on wheels, suitable for larger volumes of mixed electronics and print material (max. 500 kg, 1.30 m³).
  • Pallet box: a sturdy, stackable plastic box, ideal for compact electronics and ink and toner cartridges (max. 510 kg, 610 litres).
  • Laptop shipping box: a cardboard box with internal compartments, specifically designed for the safe collection and transport of laptops (up to 34 laptops per box).
  • Safe & Secure Box: a sealable, GDPR-compliant box for sensitive devices and data carriers requiring maximum security (60 litres, PP material).

A full overview of all containers, dimensions, and loading guidelines is available on our Transport options page.

Do you offer pallet boxes and roll containers?

Yes. Plastic pallet boxes increase safety and efficiency and scale warehouse capacity.

Check out our various transport options here

Will we receive compensation for devices with residual value?

Yes. We determine the value per device via the buy-back platform, with transparent grading and certificates.

Do you pick up throughout Belgium and the EU?

Yes. We organize pickups nationally and across Europe through regular partners. Transport is sealed and assigned.

See Transport.

Can we safely store electronics until collection?

Yes. With stackable pallet boxes and roll containers, you can collect safely and efficiently, even with larger volumes or at multiple locations. We deliver the material, you fill it according to the guidelines, and we pick it up at the agreed time.

Request pallet box rental.

View our transport options.

Can I deliver my goods to Brainscape myself to save on shipping costs?

Yes. You are welcome to visit us at Kanaaldijk 353, 2900 Schoten during opening hours. We will help you unload and register the goods immediately in our system, so that you will receive a confirmation of receipt quickly.

If you would prefer us to collect the goods, we will schedule a customized trip. This allows you to choose the option that is most practical and cost-effective for your organization.
See transport.

Can a private individual order a roller container or pallet box?

Yes. We offer roller containers and pallet boxes for businesses and private individuals. They are stackable, secure, and suitable for temporary or periodic collection. We deliver and collect them by appointment. 

Which sectors do you work for?

We work for SMEs, governments, leasing and insurance companies, IT service providers, and telecom players. Projects range from one-off cleanups to ongoing flows with SLAs. Our processes are ERP-driven and scalable, enabling us to guarantee consistent turnaround times and reporting. 

Where is Brainscape active?

Brainscape is a Belgian company headquartered in Schoten (Antwerp). From there, we serve professional clients across Belgium and in neighboring countries. Whether you need compliant collection, secure data destruction, or certified processing of end-of-life IT equipment, you can count on a partner with local expertise and internationally recognized certifications.

Who can work with Brainscape?

Brainscape works with organizations that want to dispose of their end-of-life IT equipment and electronics (WEEE) in a compliant, traceable, and sustainable way. The following profiles are welcome:

  • Large and mid-sized companies with a regular flow of end-of-life IT assets
  • Leasing companies taking back GSMs, laptops, and tablets at the end of a contract
  • Banks and insurers with strict requirements around data security and GDPR compliance
  • Government bodies and public institutions required to report on sustainable material use
  • Schools and educational institutions undergoing periodic IT renewal
  • HR service providers and facility managers responsible for the outflow of company devices
  • Healthcare institutions and hospitals with specific data destruction and compliance requirements
  • Telecom operators and distributors managing return flows of GSMs and network equipment
  • Manufacturing companies and logistics players handling mixed electronics streams

In short: any organization using IT equipment or electronics and looking for a certified, circular solution for their processing is welcome at Brainscape.

What permits and certifications does Brainscape hold?

Brainscape holds all required permits and certifications for the professional, compliant processing of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE):

  • ISO 9001 (quality management system)
  • ISO 14001 (environmental management system)
  • WEEELabex certification (audited WEEE processing in accordance with European standards)
  • Class 1 environmental permit for WEEE processing
  • Recupel certified processor
  • OVAM permit (Public Waste Agency of Flanders)
  • Brussels Capital Region permit
  • Wallonia permit
  • Luxembourg permit

These certifications enable reliable reporting to your organization and support your ESG objectives and CSRD reporting obligations.

What happens to the data on my devices?

Data security is central to our process. Depending on the condition and intended destination of the device, we apply certified data wiping or physical data destruction. Wiping is carried out in accordance with the NIST 800-88 standard (Guidelines for Media Sanitization), the international reference for secure and verifiable data erasure. After processing, you receive a detailed report as proof of compliant data removal, allowing your organization to meet the requirements of the GDPR and other applicable legislation.

When is a device eligible for reuse?

Brainscape operates on the principle of "reuse before recycling." A device is eligible for reuse when it is technically functional, compliant with applicable legislation, and when reuse is both ecologically and economically justified. Every device is thoroughly tested and sorted by type, condition, and functionality. Devices that do not qualify for reuse are processed through certified recycling via accredited partners.

How should I best prepare devices for collection?

For smooth and efficient processing, we ask you to place devices preferably in one of our containers. If you are using a pallet, stack the equipment neatly and wrap the entire load in transparent stretch film. Proper preparation reduces processing time and ensures an accurate, complete processing report.

According to which standard does Brainscape erase data?

Brainscape erases data in accordance with the NIST 800-88 standard (Guidelines for Media Sanitization), the international benchmark for secure and demonstrable data erasure. Upon completion, you receive a certified report serving as evidence for your internal compliance and any audits.

Can I drop off my devices myself?

Yes, that is possible. Please contact us in advance so we can provide you with a transport code. This code allows our team to immediately link your delivery to your file, ensuring correct and efficient processing.