Can You Sell Cans for Money? A Look at Your Options

Selling cans for money offers a practical way to earn a small income while contributing to environmental sustainability. This practice supports recycling efforts by diverting materials from landfills and reintroducing them into manufacturing cycles. Can recycling provides a modest financial return, benefiting individuals and communities.

Selling Cans Through Deposit Programs

Beverage container deposit laws, often called “bottle bills,” establish a system where a small deposit is collected at the time of beverage purchase. This deposit, typically 5 to 15 cents per container, is refunded when the empty container is returned. These programs are regional, so their rules vary by location.

The system covers common beverage containers like aluminum soda and beer cans, plus certain plastic and glass bottles. Consumers receive their deposit back when returning eligible containers to a designated redemption center or participating retailer. This approach incentivizes container returns, promoting higher recycling rates for these items.

Selling Cans as Scrap Metal

Beyond deposit programs, cans can be sold for their material value as scrap metal, primarily aluminum and steel. Unlike deposit systems with fixed refunds, scrap can value is determined by weight and market prices. Prices for scrap metals, including aluminum, fluctuate based on global supply and demand.

Scrap yards and general recycling centers typically purchase cans by weight. Aluminum beverage cans are often accepted due to aluminum’s higher scrap value, even without deposit laws. Steel or tin cans, like those for food products, are also recyclable through these channels, though their scrap value per pound is generally lower than aluminum.

Identifying Valuable Cans

To maximize returns, identify the can type and its potential value. For beverage containers, check for specific deposit labels indicating refund program eligibility. These labels often include abbreviations like “CRV” or state the deposit amount, such as “10¢.”

Distinguishing between aluminum and steel or tin cans is important for scrap metal sales. Use a magnet: it sticks to steel and tin cans but not aluminum. Aluminum beverage cans are generally more valuable per pound as scrap due to aluminum’s higher market price.

Preparing Cans for Sale

Proper preparation ensures acceptance and maximizes can value. Rinse cans thoroughly to remove residue, preventing odors and contamination at collection sites. Clean cans also maintain the quality of recycled material.

For steel or tin cans, removing paper labels may be beneficial, as some facilities prefer it. While crushing aluminum cans saves space, some redemption centers prefer uncrushed cans for easier deposit label identification and sorting. Separating cans by material type, like aluminum from steel, is often required at scrap yards and recycling centers to streamline processing.

Locating Collection Points

Finding collection points is straightforward. Use online search engines to locate nearby redemption centers, especially in regions with container deposit laws, or find local scrap metal yards and general recycling facilities. Local government waste management websites also provide information on recycling programs and accepted materials.

Before visiting, call ahead or check official websites. Confirm operating hours, accepted can types, quantity limits, and current scrap metal pricing. Understanding these details ensures a smooth transaction.