Box Recycling
When a box reaches end of life, recycling lets its fiber be used again. Request cardboard collection through partner suppliers in our network.
Get a Free Quote
Tell us what you need — a partner supplier will follow up
How Cardboard Recycling Works
From collection to new products, here is how used boxes generally move through the recycling system, in eight steps.
Collection
End-of-life packaging is collected from a business or drop-off point. Collection is available through partner suppliers in some areas, and frequency is agreed with the supplier.
Sorting
At a recycling facility, materials are separated by type, such as corrugated cardboard, mixed paper, plastics and wood. Clean separation helps every material find its best use.
Inspection
Sorted materials are checked for contaminants such as food waste, liquids and non-recyclable coatings. Contaminated material is pulled out and handled separately.
Baling
Clean, sorted cardboard is compressed into dense bales using industrial baling equipment. Baling reduces volume, which makes the material far easier to move.
Transport to Mill
Bales are loaded onto trucks and sent to paper mills that use recovered fiber as a raw material.
Pulping
At the mill, cardboard is mixed with water to break the fibers into a slurry called pulp. Staples, tape and other contaminants are removed during this stage.
Processing
The cleaned pulp is screened and refined to prepare it for papermaking. The processed fiber is then formed into sheets on a paper machine and dried.
New Products
The finished recycled paper can become new boxes, packaging and other paper goods, and the cycle begins again.
Recycling vs. Reuse
Not every box should be recycled. Use these lists to work out whether reuse or recycling makes more sense for what you have.
When to Reuse
- Box is structurally sound with intact flaps and corners
- Minimal water damage, stains, or contamination
- Standard size that is in demand on the secondary market
- Cost of new replacement is significantly higher than used value
- The box can do the job a new box would otherwise have to do
Reusing a box avoids making a new one, so reuse is worth considering first when the box quality allows.
When to Recycle
- Box is torn, crushed, or structurally compromised
- Too worn or weakened by moisture to protect a load
- Non-standard size with limited resale demand
- Too heavily printed or marked for its next user
- Mixed or heavily taped materials that reduce reuse value
Corrugated is widely recycled where local programs accept it. Wax-coated, greasy or moldy boxes are often rejected, so check first.
Preparing Cardboard for Recycling
A few simple habits make cardboard easier to collect and more likely to be accepted.
Flatten Your Boxes
Flattened boxes take up far less space in a bin or on a truck, and they are easier to bale.
Keep Cardboard Dry
Wet or soiled cardboard is harder to recycle and may be rejected. Store it under cover until collection.
Remove Other Materials
Take out foam, plastic wrap and other packing materials. Tape and labels are normally fine, but large amounts are worth removing when practical.
Check Local Rules
Accepted materials and collection options vary by area. Ask your supplier or local program what they take.
Recycling FAQ
Answers to common recycling questions. Need more detail? Contact us and we'll do our best to help.
What materials can be recycled?
Corrugated cardboard and paperboard are the usual materials, whether loose or baled. What is accepted varies by partner supplier and local program, so list your materials in your request.
Is recycling better than putting boxes in a dumpster?
Keeping cardboard separate from general waste gives the fiber a chance to be used again. Corrugated is widely recycled where local programs accept it, so check what is available in your area.
Should I reuse or recycle my boxes?
If a box is structurally sound and clean, reuse is worth considering first, because it avoids making a new one. If it is torn, crushed or worn out, recycling is usually the better route.
What does box recycling cost?
Pricing is by quote from partner suppliers and depends on your volume, location, and how often you need collection. Some loads may have resale value, so include details of what you have.
How often can pickups be scheduled?
That is agreed with the partner supplier. Tell us whether you have a one-time load or a regular flow of cardboard, and a supplier can say what is possible in your area.
Can boxes with tape, labels, and staples be recycled?
Generally, yes. Mills normally remove tape, labels, staples, and most adhesives during pulping. Cleaner boxes recycle more easily, so remove large amounts of tape when practical.
Have Cardboard to Recycle?
Tell us what you have and where it is, and a partner supplier will follow up if one is available in your area.
Request a Quote