How to Recycle Industrial Packaging Materials
Reusable pallets, drums, totes, and bulk containers from manufacturing operations. Contains valuable materials and reuse potential worth $8-25 per pallet, $15-50 per drum. Proper reconditioning extends service life 5-10 times while reducing new packaging demand by 80%.
- 1Inspect containers for structural integrity and contamination levels
- 2Remove all labels, tapes, and adhesive residues completely
- 3Clean containers thoroughly using appropriate solvents or detergents
- 4Test for chemical compatibility and residual contamination
- 5Sort by size, type, and condition for optimal processing
- 6Check for UN certification markings and regulatory compliance
- 7Document previous contents and any specialized coatings
- 8Store in protected areas to prevent weather damage
- 9Coordinate with reconditioning facilities for collection schedules
- Industrial container reconditioners (Grief, Mauser, Berry Global)
- Packaging brokers and redistributors
- Chemical companies with container return programs
- Specialty packaging reconditioning facilities
- Waste management companies with container programs
- Manufacturing facilities with internal reuse programs
Containers that held hazardous materials require triple-rinsing and may need certification before reuse. Some drums may be classified as hazardous waste if contaminated. UN-certified containers have specific cleaning and testing requirements for continued certification.
New container manufacturing generates significant CO2 emissions and material consumption. Reusing steel drums saves 85% energy vs. new production. Plastic tote reconditioning prevents 2.5 tons CO2 per tote. Container reuse programs divert 25+ million units annually from landfills while supplying 60% of industrial packaging needs.
Accepted
- Steel and plastic drums in various sizes
- Intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) and totes
- Wooden and plastic pallets
- Cardboard drums and fiber containers
- Metal and plastic pails and buckets
- Specialized shipping containers and crates
Not Accepted
- Containers with structural damage or safety hazards
- Containers contaminated with incompatible chemicals
- Single-use containers designed for disposal
- Containers missing UN certification markings when required
- Heavily corroded metal containers beyond reconditioning
Estimated value: $8-25 per pallet; $15-50 per reconditioned drum; $25-100 per IBC tote depending on size and condition
Manufacturer/Retail Take‑Back
- Chemical residues from previous contents
- Lead-based paints on older containers
- Solvent vapors in enclosed containers
- Heavy metal contamination from industrial processes
Can containers that held hazardous materials be reused?
Yes, with proper cleaning and certification. Triple-rinsing, pressure testing, and documentation are typically required. Some facilities specialize in hazmat container reconditioning.
What's the difference between reconditioning and recycling?
Reconditioning restores containers to original specifications for reuse. Recycling breaks down containers into raw materials. Reconditioning provides higher value and environmental benefits.
Are damaged containers worth anything?
Depends on damage extent. Minor dents may be repairable. Major structural damage typically means scrap value only - steel drums $0.10-0.20/lb, plastic containers may have minimal value.
Do I need to clean containers before collection?
Basic cleaning improves value and acceptance. However, professional reconditioning includes thorough cleaning processes. Extremely contaminated containers may require hazardous waste disposal.
Can mixed container types be collected together?
Generally yes, though sorting by type and condition helps maximize value. Steel drums, plastic drums, and IBCs often follow different processing routes.
Are there regulations for container reuse?
Yes. UN-certified containers must meet specific standards for hazardous materials. FDA regulations apply for food-grade containers. DOT has requirements for continued certification.
What documentation increases container value?
Previous contents information, cleaning records, UN certification markings, and age/purchase date. Original purchase documentation helps establish reconditioning feasibility.
Can businesses establish container return programs?
Yes. Many chemical suppliers offer deposit programs or direct buy-back. Container tracking systems enable closed-loop programs reducing packaging costs by 30-50%.