How Much Money Can You Get for Cans?

Beverage cans hold inherent monetary value, offering a practical way to earn money while contributing to environmental sustainability. Beyond curbside recycling, many facilities provide financial compensation for returned containers. Understanding the systems and factors influencing this value can help maximize returns.

Factors Influencing Can Value

The money you get from recycling cans depends on the can’s material and container deposit laws. Aluminum cans generally command a higher scrap value than steel or tin due to high manufacturing demand. Aluminum cans typically fetch between $0.30 and $0.80 per pound, with some areas seeing rates up to $1.65 per pound in states with container deposit laws. Approximately 32 aluminum cans make one pound.

In certain regions, Container Deposit Laws (CDL), also known as “bottle bills,” significantly impact can value. These laws add a refundable deposit, commonly $0.05 or $0.10, to a beverage’s price, returned when the empty container is recycled. Ten U.S. states currently have such legislation: California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, Oregon, and Vermont. In these states, the value is a fixed amount per container, regardless of weight.

For cans not covered by deposit laws, value is determined by the scrap metal market. This value fluctuates based on global commodity prices and local demand at recycling centers or scrap yards. Aluminum can prices can range from $0.55 to $0.70 per pound, highlighting regional market impact. These rates are subject to change, so checking current prices with local facilities is advisable.

Preparing Cans for Recycling

Proper preparation ensures cans are accepted by recycling centers and can influence value. Empty and rinse cans to remove food residues or liquids. Contaminants like grease or food waste can hinder the recycling process and lead to material rejection.

Sorting cans by material, such as separating aluminum from steel or tin, may be required. A magnet can help differentiate: aluminum is non-magnetic, while steel and tin are magnetic. This sorting ensures proper processing and valuation, as different metals have varying scrap values.

Whether to crush cans depends on the recycling program. Crushing saves storage space and eases transport. However, in states with container deposit laws, some redemption centers may require uncrushed cans for verification, such as scanning barcodes. Confirm with your specific recycling facility if crushing is permitted or preferred.

Collecting a sufficient quantity of cans is beneficial, especially when recycling for scrap metal value, which is based on weight. Small amounts may not yield significant financial returns, as the per-pound value requires a larger volume for meaningful payment. Building a sizable collection can make the trip to a recycling center more economically worthwhile.

Finding Recycling Centers and Receiving Payment

To receive payment for cans, locate a suitable recycling center. Online search engines, local government waste management websites, and company locators can help identify nearby facilities. Many communities have certified recycling centers, and some grocery stores host self-service reverse vending machines, especially in states with container deposit laws.

At a recycling center, the process involves weighing or counting cans. For scrap metal recycling, the total weight of aluminum or steel cans determines payment. In deposit states, cans are usually counted individually or by weight at a specific rate. Some facilities may require identification or paperwork for transactions, especially for larger quantities.

Payment methods vary among recycling centers. Common forms include cash, check, or a voucher redeemable for cash or store credit. Some modern facilities offer electronic payment options, such as direct deposit or mobile services. Inquire about accepted payment methods before visiting a center.