How to Recycle Cardboard

Cardboard is highly recyclable and usually accepted by most municipal recycling programs. Selling OCC (old corrugated cardboard) is a profitable venture that many companies work in, but this takes thousands of pounds to be profitable (as of October 2025, the national average is $70 per ton of OCC). Here's what to do if you have less than that:

1. Recycle It (Best Option)

Options:

• Curbside recycling:
  If you have residential recycling service, flatten the boxes and bundle them securely with twine or place them in your recycling bin. Check your city’s weight or bundle limits.
• Drop-off centers:
  Many cities and counties have free recycling depots for cardboard. Search “cardboard recycling drop-off near me.”
• Commercial recycling pickup:
  A local recycler or waste management company (e.g. Waste Management, Republic Services, or a local scrap recycler) might offer pickup for a small fee or even for free if it’s clean corrugated cardboard (OCC).

2. Sell or Give It Away

Some recyclers or businesses will actually buy clean, flattened cardboard in bulk.

• Scrap buyers / OCC recyclers:
  Prices vary by location but can range from $0.01–$0.05 per pound for clean cardboard.
• List online:
  Use Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or Freecycle — small businesses, movers, or artists often want free cardboard for packing, crafts, or insulation.

3. Reuse or Repurpose

If you like DIY or sustainability projects:

• Use it for weed barriers or compost browns in your garden.
• Create moving or storage boxes.
• Offer to local schools, animal shelters, or farms — they often need cardboard for crafts, bedding, or animal habitats.
• Use as protective padding for shipments if you sell items online.

4. Dispose (Last Resort)

If recycling isn’t available:

• Take it to a landfill or transfer station (some charge per pound or per cubic yard).
• Avoid burning it, cardboard often contains inks or coatings that can release harmful fumes.