Reverse Supply Chain RMA, Warranty and IT Management

In recovering value from scrap materials received through the reverse logistics function, Converge’s testing and inspection process helps identify hidden value through our warranty evaluation process.

During the RMA management screening process, each component is tested and inspected to identify materials that currently fall under manufacturer warranty for credit recovery. The condition of each module is recorded, and the return material authorization (RMA) process is managed by the Converge IT asset management team to ensure timely warranty credit. Materials determined to be out of warranty are properly recycled following Converge’s disposition strategies.

All RMA management data collected is analyzed and shared with part owners and, when applicable, the original device manufacturer, which allows Converge and our partners to work with the original design manufacturers (ODMs) to help improve their manufacturing QA processes.

Warranty Evaluation Benefits

It is estimated that more than half of technology firms use warranty claim processing systems. However, these systems are primarily used for materials identified as substandard in the forward supply chain. In most instances, materials that are received through the reverse supply chain remain under warranty but sit in warehouse depots waiting for disposition, while warranty periods expire and the value of remarketable components declines.

Utilizing Converge's RMA management system to process reverse supply chain warranty returns increases the velocity of returns and value recovery through the reverse supply chain. Since the average technology-based product has a life cycle measured in months, RMA materials are quickly sorted and processed on a daily basis, allowing for greater warranty recovery than is the case with materials collected and stored for periodic processing.

For more information on RMA management from Converge, contact us.