Data-bearing media status
State whether the material consists of complete HDDs, destroyed data storage devices or VCM assemblies that have already been removed.
Practical magnet guide · IT equipment and data storage devices
Sell HDD magnets and VCM assemblies to ES Metall
Hard drives may contain magnet assemblies, but selling the magnets, data security and dismantling are separate processes. A material enquiry does not include data destruction or a certificate of destruction.
IT equipment and data storage devices
HDD magnets: classify the material and origin
For IT lots, the device type, any data erasure already carried out, dismantling condition and steel back iron are as important as the possible magnet material.
Privacy Policy
Data erasure and evidence of destruction are separate processes that must be expressly agreed and documented.
Assembly
Document steel back irons, screws, adhesive and other materials attached to the magnets.
Safe dismantling
Do not remove magnets manually unless a suitable work plan and safety procedure are in place.
Important limitation
Selling magnets to ES Metall does not guarantee GDPR-compliant data destruction, collection or acceptance for purchase.
For material assessment
Information required for HDD magnets
- 01Device type and number of items
- 02Status of the data storage devices
- 03Photographs of the VCM assemblies
- 04Material or manufacturer data, if available
Enquiry in four steps
Confirm the required photographs, quantity and origin, and agree the handover arrangements
- 01
Enquiry
Record the material, form, condition, quantity and unit, country where the material is located and supporting documents.
- 02
Initial assessment
Cross-check the stated material identity, batch, origin, parties, status and general processing route.
- 03
Assessment plan
If required, agree the sample, method, costs, packaging and handover arrangements.
- 04
Commercial terms
Only once a reliable basis has been established should the commercial terms, responsibilities and payment basis be documented.
Frequently asked questions
HDD magnets: quick answers
Do all HDDs contain the same magnets?
No. The manufacturer, generation, design and material can vary.
Does selling the material automatically include certified data destruction?
No. Documented data destruction requires a separately agreed and documented process.
Should I remove the magnets myself?
No, not just to make an enquiry. Describe the material as it stands and agree any potential pre-processing with us in advance.
Technical and legal sources
Six further references
Time-sensitive legal, transport and market information should be checked directly against the linked primary sources before it is used in a specific case.
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