Toner & Ink Buyback FAQ
Getting Started
How does the toner buyback process work?
There are 3 ways to request a quote: fill out our form with toner details, upload photos of your cartridges, or submit an inventory list. Include the brand name, model, quantity, and condition for an accurate quote. We'll review your submission and get back to you with an offer.
What brands do you accept?
We buy toner cartridges from all major brands including HP, Brother, Canon, Lexmark, Xerox, Epson, Samsung, Dell, Ricoh, and Kyocera. If your brand isn't listed, submit a quote anyway — we may still be interested.
How quickly will I receive a quote?
Most quotes are returned within 2 hours of submission. Complex or large inventory submissions may take up to 24 hours.
Do you buy ink cartridges as well as toner?
Yes. We buy new, unused inkjet cartridges — HP, Canon, Brother, Epson and other major brands — alongside laser toner. The same rules apply: genuine OEM only, never installed in a printer.
Is there a minimum quantity?
No. We buy single cartridges and lots of several hundred. Larger matched lots usually earn a better per-unit price because they're cheaper for us to process.
How do I find my toner model number?
It's the short code on the cartridge box label — for example CF280X, TN760, or 055H. That's the number we price. The printer model (like "LaserJet Pro M404") is helpful context but isn't the part number.
Box Conditions
What condition does the toner need to be in?
We accept toners in four conditions: Great (no marks, dents, writing, tape, or labels on the box), Good (minor dents or scratches, writing or labels on the box), Bad (major dents, holes, or rips in the box), and Open Box (box is not sealed but the cartridge is new and unused).
Do you accept used or refilled cartridges?
No. We only purchase brand-new, unused toner cartridges. The cartridge itself must be factory-sealed and never installed in a printer.
Does the condition affect the price?
Yes. Cartridges in 'Great' condition receive the highest payout. 'Good' and 'Open Box' cartridges are priced slightly lower, and 'Bad' condition boxes receive the lowest offer. All cartridges must still be new and unused inside.
Do toner cartridges expire?
Laser toner is a dry powder and stays usable for years, so sealed toner past its printed date usually still has value — often a little less than current stock. Inkjet cartridges are more time-sensitive and can dry out, so older ink is worth noticeably less.
My box is damaged. Can I still sell it?
Yes. Dents, rips, writing, tape, and store labels lower the grade and the offer, but we still buy the cartridge as long as the cartridge inside is new, sealed, and unused.
Do you buy opened boxes?
Yes — that's our Open Box grade. The outer box can be unsealed as long as the cartridge inside is untouched, still in its foil seal, and has never been installed.
Do you buy remanufactured or compatible cartridges?
No. We only buy genuine OEM cartridges from the original manufacturer. Remanufactured, refilled, and third-party compatible cartridges aren't eligible.
Shipping
Do I have to pay for shipping?
No! We provide a prepaid UPS Ground shipping label at no cost to you. Simply pack your toners securely and drop them off at any UPS location or schedule a free pickup at ups.com.
Do I need to print the shipping label?
Yes — you'll receive a PDF shipping label by email. Print it, tape it securely to the outside of your box (covering any old labels), and you're ready to ship.
How should I pack my toners?
Ship your cartridges inside a separate outer shipping box — never tape or attach a shipping label directly to the toner's own retail box, as that damages it and reduces your payout. Use a sturdy box with adequate padding, and fill any empty space with packing material to prevent movement during transit. Avoid using damaged or wet boxes. Maximum size: no box side may exceed 24 inches; maximum weight 45 lbs per box.
Can I ship in more than one box?
Yes. Orders can carry multiple prepaid labels, so a large lot can be split across several boxes. Request additional labels from your order page.
Do you buy from every state?
Yes — we buy from businesses and individuals in all 50 states by mail. Local pickup or drop-off can be arranged in the Louisville, Kentucky area.
What if my package is lost in transit?
All shipments using our prepaid labels are tracked. If a package is lost, contact us with your tracking number and we'll file a claim on your behalf. However, we are not responsible for items lost in transit.
Inspection
What happens when you receive my toners?
Once your package arrives, our team inspects each cartridge to verify the brand, model, quantity, and condition. We'll confirm the details match your submission and process payment accordingly.
What if the inspection results differ from my submission?
If we find discrepancies (e.g., different condition, wrong model, extra or missing items), we'll send you a detailed notification with the adjustments and an updated offer. You'll be able to review and accept the new amount or decline it from your dashboard.
What happens if items are deducted or rejected during inspection?
If a cartridge arrives in a different condition than described, the price may be adjusted down. If an item is the wrong model or is not something we accept, it will be marked as 'Not Accepted' and removed from the total offer. You'll see a full breakdown of all adjustments in your order details.
How long do I have to respond to an adjusted order?
You have 3 days to review and respond to any inspection adjustments. If you accept, your order moves forward with the updated payment amount. If you don't respond within 3 days, the items will be recycled or disposed of and the order will be closed.
What if I decline the adjusted order?
If you decline the adjustments, you'll need to provide a prepaid return shipping label so we can send your items back to you. Once we receive your label, we'll ship the items to the address on record.
Payment
How do I get paid?
We offer payment via Check, PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, or eCheck. You choose your preferred method when confirming your order.
How long does payment take?
Payment is processed within 1–3 business days after inspection is complete and the offer is confirmed.
Can a check be made out to my business?
Yes. When you accept an offer and choose Check, you enter the exact name the check should be payable to — a business name works fine.
How much will I get for my cartridges?
It depends on the brand, the specific model's demand, box condition, date code, and quantity. Genuine OEM laser toner for printers still in wide use, in sealed undamaged boxes, earns the most. Submit a free quote for a written offer with no obligation.
Trust & Safety
Is The Toner Exchange a legitimate business?
Absolutely. We've been buying toner cartridges from businesses and individuals for years. We pride ourselves on transparent pricing, fast payments, and excellent customer service. You can reach us at (888) 388-5142 or info@thetonerexchange.com, and we're based at 6407 Bardstown Road #260, Louisville, KY 40291.
What if I change my mind after submitting a quote?
No problem. A quote is not a commitment. You're free to decline any offer with no obligation whatsoever.