The crossed-out wheeled bin on some electronics means the equipment must be collected separately from unsorted household waste under EU rules. When the device reaches the end of its useful life, use an appropriate local electronics collection or take-back route. The mark is not, by itself, a warning that the device is broken, dangerous, or recalled.
What does the crossed-out bin mean?
It is the EU Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) symbol for separate collection of electrical and electronic equipment. The WEEE Directive says the mark is intended to help reduce electronics disposed of as unsorted municipal waste and make separate collection easier. It must be visible, legible, and indelible on marked equipment. Directive 2012/19/EU, Annex IX.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
In practical terms, the symbol concerns disposal when the equipment becomes waste. It does not mean that ordinary use of the device is prohibited or that the product has a safety defect.
Can I throw the device in the trash?
If the symbol applies under EU WEEE rules, do not put the equipment in unsorted household waste. Check your municipality, local waste authority, or the retailer for an electronics collection or take-back option. The directive calls for consumer information about available return and collection systems, but it does not establish one collection point that serves everyone. Local arrangements and accepted devices can differ.
Why is the symbol on the box instead of the device?
The mark normally belongs on the equipment. Under the consolidated WEEE text, if marking the equipment itself is impractical because of its size or function, the symbol may instead appear on its packaging, instructions for use, and warranty. The text names EN 50419:2022 as the preferred marking standard. Consolidated Directive 2012/19/EU text, dated 8 April 2024.
Does the same symbol apply everywhere?
The explanation here is based on EU WEEE legislation. It should not be treated as a complete statement of disposal law in every country. If you are outside the EU, follow your country’s rules and local collection guidance rather than assuming the EU marking rule determines your disposal options.
Rank #2
- Holds electronic waste and LEDs. Electronic waste includes any electronic components that power on and have any chip or board parts. This includes, but is not limited to computers monitors, telecom gear, fax machines, and televisions
- Each UN certified container comes with a poly liner, instructions in English and Spanish, terms & conditions, and a pre-paid return shipping label.
- Access exclusive online features including recycling reports, container tracking, and certificates of recycling.
The crossed-out wheeled bin has also appeared on batteries in an earlier EU directive. That historical use does not establish current battery-law requirements; check current local guidance for battery disposal. Directive 2006/66/EC, Annex II.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- It’s more than just a box. One low fee covers everything you need – the container, shipping to the recycling center, recycling charges, and a certificate of recycling.
- Holds electronic waste and LEDs. Electronic waste includes any electronic components that power on and have any chip or board parts. This includes, but is not limited to computers monitors, telecom gear, fax machines, and televisions Each UN certified container comes with a poly liner, instructions in English and Spanish, terms & conditions, and a pre-paid return shipping label.
- Not available in Alaska, Hawaii, Maine, or Puerto Rico.
Rank #3
- UN Approved Container for Dry Cell Batteries -- Easily recycle various dry cell batteries such as Alkaline, Nickel Cadmium (NiCad), Zinc-Carbon (Zn), Rechargeable Lithium-ion, Nickel-Metal Hydride, mercury, Silver-Oxide, AA, AAA, C, D and 9 Volts.
- Easy and Convenient Recycling Process -- Our kit offers an easy process. You will receive a container in a box, and a free return label. Just drop your batteries, attach the label, and send for recycling—no stress or extra fees.
- Prevention of Landfill Disposal -- Recycling makes sure that lithium batteries don't end up in landfills. This prevents dangerous materials from getting into the environment and helps keep our ecosystems safe.
- Recycling You Can Trust -- We are certified recycling experts who share our dedication to the environment. Your batteries will be handled responsibly, reducing the negative impact of improper disposal.
- Be a Part of Something Bigger -- Recycling batteries isn't just responsibility – it's a step towards a circular economy. By doing your part, you're helping to conserve valuable resources and lessen the demand for new materials.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.
