Managing laptop returns from remote employees can quickly become a drain on IT and operations teams. Between sourcing packaging, confirming addresses, and tracking return shipments, the process is often manual, time-consuming, and costly.
That’s why more companies are turning to laptop retrieval services. These solutions provide secure shipping kits, prepaid return labels, and real-time tracking, enabling faster, safer, and more efficient device recovery.
With the IT asset disposition market projected to reach $34.6 billion by 2031, organizations are reevaluating their approach to managing returns to mitigate risk, recover value, and safeguard sensitive data. In this guide, we’ll break down how laptop retrieval services work and compare the top 10 providers in 2025.
Key takeaways
Laptop retrieval services follow a structured, step-by-step process to ensure secure, trackable returns from remote employees:
1. Initiation
The company submits a retrieval request with the departing employee’s details and return address.
2. Shipping kit delivery
A laptop return kit—including a padded shipping box, prepaid return label, and packing materials—is sent directly to the employee.
3. Packing the device
The employee securely packs the laptop (and any accessories like monitors or keyboards) using the provided materials and instructions.
4. Return shipment
Using the prepaid label, the employee drops off the box or schedules a pickup. The label ensures full tracking and cost coverage.
5. In-transit tracking
The company monitors the shipment’s status in real time, maintaining visibility until the package is received.
6. Processing and recovery
Once returned, the device is inspected, wiped, and either stored, redeployed, or disposed of according to IT asset recovery policies.
These providers offer scalable, secure, and cost-effective solutions for recovering IT devices from distributed teams, whether for reuse, storage, or disposal.
Global IT Asset Management and laptop retrieval service
GroWrk offers an all-in-one device procurement, deployment, retrieval, storage, and recycling platform across 150+ countries. It features real-time tracking, AI-driven asset insights, and full IT lifecycle visibility.
Key features
Prepaid laptop return kits and real-time tracking
Certified data wiping and environmental compliance
Global logistics coverage with 24/7 platform access
Why GroWrk
GroWrk is ideal for distributed teams managing assets at scale. It simplifies every step of device offboarding with automation, secure recovery, and end-to-end asset traceability.
IT asset recovery with a focus on distributed teams
Hofy specializes in eco-conscious laptop retrieval and IT Asset Management. Their secure, prepaid return process includes data destruction and device storage options.
Key features
Prepaid labels and secure packaging
Green logistics and recycling support
Data destruction certifications
Why Hofy
It's perfect for teams that prioritize sustainability and simplicity. However, Hofy’s coverage isn’t as global or integrated as GroWrk’s end-to-end platform.
Comprehensive laptop retrieval service for distributed teams
Firstbase connects directly to your HR and IT systems to automate retrieval workflows for remote employees. It includes shipping, asset tracking, and condition reporting.
Key features
Global laptop return logistics
Real-time asset tracking
API integration with HR and IT platforms
Why Firstbase
Streamlines the return process with strong automation. GroWrk, however, goes deeper with full-lifecycle insights and global infrastructure.
Global laptop retrieval service for distributed employees
Allwhere delivers laptop recovery services for companies managing high volumes of returns. Bulk shipping discounts, automated reminders, and secure packaging make large-scale coordination easier.
Key features
Retrieval kits with prepaid labels
Return instructions and employee reminders
Bulk logistics options for larger teams
Why Allwhere
Great for managing retrieval at scale. However, GroWrk provides more comprehensive IT asset oversight and advanced analytics.
Customizable laptop retrieval service
Workwize offers flexible retrieval plans with features tailored to company size and workflow needs. The platform includes secure logistics, real-time tracking, and ISO-compliant data handling.
Key features
Custom retrieval processes
Prepaid returns and tracking
Compliance-ready documentation
Why Workwize
It is good for teams needing flexible, secure returns. GroWrk’s unified dashboard provides more control and lifecycle coverage for centralized IT asset management.
Affordable laptop retrieval service for small businesses
TimeSquared offers an affordable laptop return solution with essential features like automated reminders, secure shipping, and optional data sanitization—ideal for smaller teams with lean IT operations.
Key features
Prepaid return kits and simple tracking
Email notifications for device returns
Secure logistics and optional data wiping
Why TimeSquared
It’s an excellent fit for small businesses prioritizing cost and simplicity. For companies with global reach or complex retrieval needs, GroWrk provides broader coverage and deeper lifecycle management.
Laptop retrieval service with enhanced security
TechReturners focuses on secure IT asset recovery with features like remote device wiping and detailed chain-of-custody tracking—ideal for industries where data compliance is critical.
Key features
Remote data erasure tools
Advanced asset tracking and reporting
Secure global return options
Why TechReturners
Strong on data security and traceability, especially for regulated industries. GroWrk matches those capabilities but adds global logistics and unified lifecycle visibility across all IT assets.
Streamlined laptop and monitor retrieval services
Retriever simplifies laptop and monitor returns with quick-ship boxes, prepaid labels, and employee support. It’s designed for speed and visibility, especially within the U.S.
Key features
Padded shipping kits delivered next day
Pre-labeled boxes with tape and instructions
Real-time shipment tracking and 24/7 support
Why Retriever
Excellent for domestic logistics and fast returns. GroWrk, by contrast, supports international scale and offers deeper integration with IT and HR systems.
Comprehensive IT asset lifecycle management platform
Unduit provides a modular platform for managing procurement, maintenance, and recovery. It offers robust tools for organizations that want more automation and visibility across the entire lifecycle.
Key features
Global device logistics and provisioning
Integrated device maintenance and repair
Secure storage and resale support
Why Unduit
A solid platform for asset recovery within a larger ITAM strategy. GroWrk, however, offers greater automation, AI-driven insights, and centralized control across 150+ countries.
Efficient device retrieval and secure management
DeviceRescue offers secure, end-to-end laptop returns and unassigned device storage for U.S.-based businesses. It’s user-friendly, compliant, and focused on local returns.
Key features
Laptop, phone, and monitor retrievals
Secure warehousing and redeployment
Device condition reports and employee support
Why DeviceRescue
Strong for domestic recovery and reuse, but limited to the U.S. GroWrk provides a global footprint, full asset lifecycle management, and AI-powered reporting to support distributed teams worldwide.
Laptop retrieval services must prioritize data protection to prevent unauthorized access and ensure compliance with data privacy laws. The best providers implement robust protocols at every stage of the return process.
Here’s how top laptop retrieval services safeguard your IT assets:
GDPR
CCPA
SOC 2
ISO 27001
R2 / e-Stewards for recycling
GroWrk isn’t just another laptop retrieval service—it’s a full IT asset lifecycle platform designed for distributed teams. From offboarding to recycling, GroWrk automates every step, reduces manual work, and scales with your workforce across 150+ countries.
Here’s how GroWrk stands out:
Prepaid return kits, delivered anywhere: Automatically ship padded return boxes and prepaid labels to employees in over 150 countries. No address confirmation headaches or shipping delays.
Real-time asset tracking and audit trails: Gain full visibility from request to return. Every laptop is tracked with timestamps, chain-of-custody records, and automated status updates.
Secure data erasure and compliance: Every returned device undergoes NIST 800-88-compliant data wiping, with certificates provided for audit readiness and peace of mind.
Redeploy, resell, or ethically recycle: Maximize asset value through secure redeployment or resale, or recycle through R2-certified partners, with sustainability documentation included.
Automated workflows that save time: Offboarding workflows trigger automatically, notifying employees, scheduling pickups, and logging updates in your asset management system.
Whether you're offboarding five employees or five hundred, GroWrk makes device recovery frictionless. This allows your team to focus on what matters, not shipping labels. Request a demo to learn more.