What is a core charge?
Short for ‘cash on return’, the core charge acts as an incentive for remanufacturers to get the used unit – the core – back. Think of it like the fizzy pop deposit scheme in the 1980s, but instead of pence for a bottle, it’s pounds for used car parts.
Whilst this charge can make the total purchase seem more expensive, as long as you return the core in good condition, you’ll be refunded the money. Take a turbocharger as an example. A typical core surcharge is £140, this is roughly what it would cost us to buy the same elsewhere. This means you will pay for the cost of the actual turbo, plus an additional £140, upfront. However, when the old part is returned and approved by us, we’ll refund the £140 surcharge back to you, taking the net price back down to the cost of the turbo itself.
Why do we want your old, worn parts back?
It’s simple – without core, sustainable programmes like this wouldn’t exist. As a remanufacturer, our job is to restore a used part to the vehicle manufacturer’s original factory specification, and in doing so, help protect valuable resources, recover waste and save you money. However, we can only do this if we get the old unit back. Hence the core charge.
What about core charge on new?
There are times when we might apply a core charge to a new unit too. The same principles apply – we want your used new unit back, this time, so that we can introduce a reman version. As above, this would be impossible without the core.
Why do core prices vary?
Like pretty much any other commodity, core prices fluctuate based on age, application and demand. Typically, the more popular, widely available parts, cost less. On the flip side, rarer parts that are in demand, but harder to find, will attract will a higher core charge, to encourage their return.
Treat core with care
Core is core to us. But it’s also core to you getting your money back. So whilst it can be all too easy to think of it as an old, worn part, and cast it the scrap heap, it’s anything but. Core is for all intent and purpose, cash. Which is why we’d always encourage you to treat it with the same TLC you would do a new part. To ensure an acceptable core return, follow these simple steps:
- Always use the correct tools and processes to remove the part – anything else risks damage to the unit
- Visually inspect every core to check it’s in an acceptable condition for return
- Return the core as a complete unit – never disassemble the part, even if it aids removal
- Remove any auxiliary parts from the unit i.e. adapters, bolts, sensors
- Drain the unit of oil and ensure it is dry
- Securely package the unit, ideally in original packaging, to prevent any damage during transit. Carwood boxes are especially designed to securely house and protect both the new part and core return
- If you’re unable to return it immediately, store it somewhere safe in the meantime
- Only return corresponding core – it must match the new unit that you’ve purchased. You’d be surprised what we get back, including a pair of ladies shoes.
Up to standards
Although old units are the core of our business, that doesn’t mean that we automatically accept every core. After all, having good core at the start, is the only way we can guarantee a product that performs just like new, at the end.
Which is why we’d always encourage you to check our core returns policy to understand what is, and what isn’t acceptable. And remember, on the unlikely occasion, that we’re unable to accept your core return (we’ll explain why), more often than not, it will still be more cost-effective than buying new, even with the core surcharge in place.
I’m a UK aftermarket account holder! How do I return core?
You can now return core via our online returns portal, part of CarwoodHub. It’s quick, hassle- and paper-free. Simply log in to your CarwoodHub account at www.carwoodhub.co.uk (register for an account if you don’t have one) and click on returns hub. Select ‘core return’ and provide the requested info.
The platform will automatically schedule a collection with UPS for the next working day – you will be notified via email or SMS if you’ve chosen this option. The pre-paid returns label will be provided at collection, so you’ll just need to securely package the core, ideally in its original box, and hand over to the driver. It’s as easy as that! Assuming the core is in an acceptable condition, we’ll aim to credit your account within 10 working days.
So although core is a used product, it’s important to us. And it’s important for you. Think of it as an account receivable and treat core like the £s they represent – it’s your money after all.
