Disposing of a broken monitor can be confusing for many people. Choosing the wrong route under the PC Recycling Law may lead to rejection by local governments or even illegal dumping charges. This article compares two practical methods—manufacturer recycling and Renet Japan pickup—based on Impress PC Watch coverage and official sources, outlining procedures, fees, and precautions.

📑Table of Contents
  1. Introduction: Why Disposing of a Broken Monitor Is Tricky
  2. Method 1: Manufacturer Collection Service Procedures and Notes
  3. Method 2: Renet Japan Collection Service Procedures and Conditions
  4. Comparison of the Two Methods (Fees, Effort, Scope)
  5. Precautions, Exceptions, Alternatives, and How to Choose
  6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
  7. Summary

Introduction: Why Disposing of a Broken Monitor Is Tricky

PC monitors fall under the Small Home Appliance Recycling Law and PC Recycling Law. Devices sold after October 1, 2003, are generally eligible for free or low-cost collection. However, many cases require model numbers or serial numbers, creating a high barrier for first-timers. Impress PC Watch reports a surge in monitor-only disposal inquiries. Some municipalities treat monitors as TVs, so prior confirmation is essential. Source: Impress PC Watch (https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/topic/feature/2118387.html, June 2026) and PC3R official site.


Method 1: Manufacturer Collection Service Procedures and Notes

Manufacturer collection targets devices with the PC Recycling Mark, offering free or paid pickup. Check each manufacturer’s contact via the PC3R (PC 3R Promotion Association) website.

The steps are as follows: 1. Confirm eligibility (PC Recycling Mark or post-Oct 2003 manufacture) 2. Apply via manufacturer site or PC3R 3. Receive shipping label (approx. 1 week) 4. Pack the monitor (plastic bag acceptable) 5. Ship via Yu-Pack or request pickup

If not eligible for free collection, expect around 3,300 yen (plus 4,400 yen for CRT). Monitors 40 inches or larger require special handling. Advantages include widespread pickup support and fewer regional restrictions. Disadvantages are the hassle of entering model/SN details and waiting for labels. Source: Impress PC Watch and PC3R (https://www.pc3r.jp/home/recycle_flow.html).


Method 2: Renet Japan Collection Service Procedures and Conditions

Renet Japan is a Ministry of the Environment and METI-certified small appliance recycler. Often free when bundled with a PC; monitor-only is paid.

Steps: 1. Apply online via official site 2. Pack in cardboard (within 140cm per side, 20kg) 3. Ship via Sagawa Express

Fees: Monitor-only 1,848 yen, CRT 4,268 yen. Free when bundled with PC. No model or brand restrictions; covers almost all monitors. Takes about 3 weeks; track via My Page. Advantages: simple application and broad coverage. Disadvantages: size limits and PC-bundling requirement for free service. Source: Renet Japan official (https://www.renet.jp/) and Impress PC Watch.


Comparison of the Two Methods (Fees, Effort, Scope)

Item Manufacturer Collection Renet Japan Collection
Fee Free or from 3,300 yen From 1,848 yen (free with PC)
Effort Model/SN entry + label wait Online application only
Scope Mainly post-2003/10 models Almost all monitors
Size Limit 40+ inches handled individually Max 140cm/20kg per box
Pickup Available Available

Source: Impress PC Watch (https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/topic/feature/2118387.html), PC3R, Renet Japan (June 2026).


Precautions, Exceptions, Alternatives, and How to Choose

Monitors with built-in TV tuners are treated as TVs—also check local collection. CRTs often incur extra fees. Alternatives include municipal small-appliance drop boxes or trade-in at recyclers. Recommendation: Prioritize manufacturer collection if the PC Recycling Mark is present. Use Renet Japan if no mark or model unknown.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I dispose of a monitor alone for free?

Manufacturer collection is often free with the PC Recycling Mark. Renet Japan usually requires bundling with a PC for free service.

Q2: What if the shipping label doesn’t arrive?

Contact the manufacturer or recheck on the PC3R site. It can take over a week.

Q3: What are the fees for CRT monitors?

Manufacturer: +4,400 yen; Renet: 4,268 yen. Confirm in advance.

Q4: What about large monitors (40 inches+)?

Manufacturer collection handles them case-by-case. Renet has strict size limits.

Q5: What is the risk of illegal dumping?

Violating the PC Recycling Law carries penalties. Always use official channels.

Q6: Do overseas-brand monitors qualify?

Renet accepts any brand. For manufacturer collection, check PC3R.


Related articles:

Summary

Two realistic options exist for broken monitor disposal: manufacturer collection and Renet Japan. Choose based on the presence of the PC Recycling Mark, quantity, and size. Thorough prior confirmation using official information minimizes hassle. References: Impress PC Watch special feature, PC3R official, Renet Japan official.

krona23

Author

krona23

Over 20 years in the IT industry, serving as Division Head and CTO at multiple companies running large-scale web services in Japan. Experienced across Windows, iOS, Android, and web development. Currently focused on AI-native transformation. At DevGENT, sharing practical guides on AI code editors, automation tools, and LLMs in three languages.

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