How to Dispose of Metal File Cabinets in Cary, NC

Introduction

Disposing of old metal file cabinets can be a cumbersome task, but it doesn’t have to be. With some planning and effort, you can remove those bulky cabinets from your home or office in Cary, NC in an efficient and environmentally-friendly way. Here is a comprehensive guide on the best practices for metal file cabinet disposal in Cary.

Reasons to Properly Dispose of Metal File Cabinets

Here are some of the top reasons why you should dispose of your old metal file cabinets properly:

• They take up unnecessary space in your home or office when no longer needed. Removing clutter helps create a tidy environment.
• Old cabinets may contain sensitive personal or business information. Proper disposal helps protect confidentiality.
• The metal can be recycled and reused rather than ending up in a landfill. Proper disposal is more environmentally friendly.
• Rusty or broken cabinets can pose safety hazards such as sharp edges. Removing hazards protects your family and employees.
• The resale or trade-in value of old file cabinets is minimal. Proper disposal clears space for new furniture.

Preparing Metal File Cabinets for Removal

Before removing your old metal file cabinets, take the following preparatory steps:

• Empty out all contents – Shred or safely store any sensitive documents, and recycle or trash any unwanted items. This makes the cabinets lighter to transport.
• Scrub the interior – Remove any dirt, grime or sticky residue using all-purpose cleaners and scrub brushes. This prevents messes during transportation.
• Check for damage – Inspect sides, drawers and frames for rust, dents or broken/sharp edges that could cause injury. Repair if possible.
• Disassemble if necessary – Take apart any cabinets that won’t fit through doorways in one piece. Mark pieces for reassembly.
• Gather moving supplies – Have hand trucks, furniture sliders, ramps, blankets and tie-downs to facilitate safe cabinet transport.

Best Options for Metal File Cabinet Disposal in Cary, NC

There are several recommended methods for responsibly getting rid of old metal file cabinets in the Cary area:

Donate or Resell

• Contact local thrift stores, secondhand shops, antique dealers or auction houses to see if they will accept cabinet donations or consignments. Many will even pick them up.
• Post classified ads online offering to sell or give away the cabinets to interested parties able to transport themselves.
• Donate to charities like Habitat for Humanity that may resell or reuse them. Call ahead to check requirements.

Recycling

• Break down cabinets into separate metal components and take to a scrap metal recycling center. Call to ask about drop-off fees.
• Check with Cary’s brush and bulky item pickup to schedule a curbside bulk metal pickup. Fees may apply.
• Inquire with cabinet manufacturers like Advantage or Hirsh about metal recycling programs. Some may provide pickup or drop-off sites.

Curbside Trash Pickup

• Schedule a bulky item pickup with your contracted waste management provider in Cary like GFL Environmental. Fees are typically $15-25 per large item.
• Break down cabinets into sections small enough to leave at the curb on your designated bulk trash day. Check municipal size and weight limits.

Junk Removal Services

For fastest removal without transporting the cabinets yourself, consider hiring a junk hauling service. Some options in Cary include:

• Junk King Cary – Environmentally friendly junk removal starting at $169 per truckload. Provides curbside cabinet pickup.
• College Hunks Hauling Junk – Full-service junk removal with flat hourly rates for loading and disposal.
• Dump Truckster – Same day junk hauling with upfront pricing. Provides curbside cabinet pickup.

When comparing services, inquire about pricing, truck capacity, employee expertise and liability insurance.

Dismantling Metal File Cabinets for Disposal or Recycling

If you need to take metal file cabinets apart prior to disposal or recycling, follow these steps:

• Remove all drawers, shelves and removable parts. Set hardware aside for reuse.
• Use a power drill with a metal bit to remove any remaining screws, bolts or rivets. Wear eye protection.
• Bend away any small metal joining tabs using pliers or a flat pry bar. Avoid jagged edges.
• Use a hammer to knock off the cabinet back if necessary to separate sides and top from frame.
• Cut or unbend any parts too large to fit in a pickup truck using an angle grinder or hacksaw. Wear gloves.
• Stack and tie disassembled components neatly to maximize space during transport.

Safety Tips for Moving File Cabinets

Follow these important safety practices when transporting old metal file cabinets in Cary for disposal or recycling:

• Push rather than pull loaded dollies and hand trucks to avoid tipping over.
• Use ramps to load cabinets onto vehicles, even for curbside pickup. Lifting risks injury.
• Tie tall cabinets to vehicle beds or trailers so they don’t tip during transport.
• Avoid carrying heavy cabinets long distances. Get help moving them to reduce strain.
• Wear closed toe shoes, gloves and other PPE when handling cabinets or metal pieces.
• Check for any hanging wires before removing cabinets from walls. Cut wires as needed.

Questions and Answers

Here are some common questions and answers about disposing of metal file cabinets in Cary:

Q: How much does it cost to dispose of metal file cabinets in Cary?

A: Costs vary depending on method. Recycling drop-off is cheapest ($10-$20 per cabinet) while junk hauling is most expensive ($100+ per cabinet).

Q: Can metal file cabinets go out with regular trash?

A: Small broken down pieces can, but most waste services require scheduling bulky item pickup for whole cabinets due to size. Fees apply.

Q: What should I remove from cabinets before disposal?

A: Remove any shelving, drawers, contents and hardware you wish to keep. Also take off the cabinet back if possible to separate into pieces.

Q: Can I dispose of file cabinets at the Cary dump?

A: No, the Cary dump does not accept drop-offs from residents. You must use a junk hauler or recycling center that accepts scrap metal.

Q: Is it better to donate, reuse or recycle metal file cabinets?

A: Reusing through donation or selling is best for the environment, but recycling is better than landfill disposal if the cabinets are old or damaged.

Conclusion

Disposing of old metal file cabinets in Cary, NC requires a bit of time and effort but it can be managed with minimal hassle. The keys are proper preparation, safety during handling, and utilizing one of the responsible disposal methods above that work best for your needs. Just avoid leaving old cabinets sitting in your home or office taking up space. With this guide, you can clear them out in an eco-friendly way.