Repair: An item received from a customer or as part of the defective returns from the field is processed, using additional resources and parts, to make the item functional and conform to original (or repaired) specifications. The product or part may be under warranty. Repaired parts are returned to the originating customer or field source.
Refurbish: An item received either from a customer as an exchange item (where the defective item is exchanged for a good item) or other collection method such as defective and end-of-life returns, is processed, using additional processes and parts to conform to original product specifications. Such products or parts are then sold through normal distribution channel either as new products or refurbished products.
Remanufacture: This mass refurbishment activity implies a higher value-add to repaired parts and products that are sold through the normal distribution channels, mostly as new products.