How Much Do I Get Paid to Recycle Metal Cabinet?

Average Payouts for Recycled Metal Cabinets

The amount you get paid for recycling metal cabinets depends on a few key factors:

• Type of Metal – Steel, aluminum, copper etc. have different recycling values per pound. More valuable metals will earn you more money.
• Market Prices – Scrap metal prices fluctuate regularly based on demand, supply, and other economic factors. Current market rates must be checked.
• Weight – The total weight of your metal cabinets will play a big role in determining your final payout. Heavier cabinets equal higher earnings.
• Quality – Cabinets that are clean and free of non-metal attachments are more valuable as they don’t require extra processing.

Here are some average per pound payouts for common metal cabinet materials:

• Steel – $0.05 to $0.20 per lb
• Stainless Steel – $0.20 to $0.60 per lb
• Aluminum – $0.30 to $0.90 per lb
• Copper – $2.00 to $3.50 per lb

So a typical 30 lb steel cabinet could earn anywhere from $1.50 to $6.00 at current scrap prices. More exotic metals like copper would pay out significantly more.

Factors That Impact Your Metal Cabinet Payouts

To get top dollar for your recycled metal cabinets, keep these key tips in mind:

• Clean Thoroughly – Remove any wood, screws, glass, or non-metal attachments. Clean grime or grease helps maximize metal content.
• Separate Materials – Many recyclers pay more for separated metals types. Sort steel, aluminum, copper etc. into individual piles.
• Strip Valuable Metals – Pull out any brass handles, hinges or other higher value components before recycling the main cabinet.
• Weigh Beforehand – Knowing the weights of different metal types ensures you get properly credited during payouts.
• Check Pricing Regularly – Call around for quotes as scrap prices can vary between buyers. Go with the best rate.
• Negotiate For More – For very large quantities of scrap, you may be able to negotiate slightly higher per pound rates.

Where To Sell Your Scrap Metal Cabinets

The most common options for selling your recycled metal cabinets include:

• Scrap Metal Yards – There are scrap recycling centers in most towns that will purchase all types of metal waste.
• Junk Removal Services – Many junk haulers will buy the metal items they are removing during disposal jobs.
• Online Metal Buyers – Websites like iScrapApp allow you to get quotes and coordinate pickup of your metal scrap.
• Craftspeople/Artists – Those who work with metal may be interested in unique cabinet pieces for repurposing.

Always call ahead to any buyers to confirm current rates and to see if they have any minimum quantity requirements. For very large volumes of metal cabinet scrap, having the buyer come to you directly can maximize your payout.

Maximizing Your Scrap Metal Earnings

Here are a few final tips for getting the most money for your recycled metal cabinets:

• Break down cabinets into individual detachable components whenever possible.
• Hold onto valuable metals like copper pieces until market prices increase.
• See if neighbors have any additional metal items as bulk selling can mean better rates.
• Time your recycling to periods of peak market pricing for your specific materials.
• Consider selling locally instead of shipping to commercial recycling plants to avoid steep freight charges.

With some time and effort, those old unusable metal cabinets, shelves or drawers sitting around your garage can become a nice source of extra cash in your pocket! Just be sure to call around for the best current pricing in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much can I get for recycling a typical 4-drawer file cabinet?

For an average steel 4-drawer file cabinet weighing around 60-70 lbs, you could expect to earn between $3-$14 based on current steel prices of 5 to 20 cents per lb.

Are metal cabinets worth more as whole units or broken down into metal types?

In most cases, fully breaking down cabinets into separate metals will earn you the highest payout per pound. However, complete cabinets are easier to transport and handle. Discuss options with your local recycler.

What should I do if I need to dispose of old cabinets that are heavily damaged?

Badly damaged metal cabinets with holes, stains or excessive wear-and-tear may not yield great scrap value. In some cases, you may need to pay a small fee for junk disposal rather than expect much revenue.

How can I find the best local scrap pricing for old metal cabinets?

Call around to all nearby scrap yards and salvage buyers and get current rate quotes. Checking online pricing resources like iScrapApp can also help you benchmark prevailing area rates.

Are there any risks with removing and recycling old metal cabinets myself?

Improper removal can damage your property. And handling sheet metal with sharp exposed edges creates injury risks. Consider hiring junk removal pros if you lack the experience.

Conclusion

Determining how much you can get paid when recycling old metal cabinets requires checking prevailing scrap prices and properly weighing your specific materials. While rates fluctuate over time, most metal cabinet scrap will earn anywhere from a few cents per pound to a few dollars depending on the types present. With some time investment to prepare and haul your materials, those unwanted cabinets can become a nice source of extra cash. Just be sure to call around to lock-in the best local pricing.