If you’re looking to make some extra cash, recycling aluminum cans is a great way to do it. Not only is it environmentally friendly, but it’s also an easy way to earn some money on the side. But where do you take your aluminum cans for money?
The good news is that there are many options available to you. One of the most common ways to recycle aluminum cans for money is to take them to a local recycling center. These centers will typically pay you for your cans based on their weight and the current market price for aluminum.
Another option is to take your aluminum cans to a scrap yard or metal buyer. These buyers will typically pay you a higher price per pound for your aluminum cans than a recycling center would. However, they may also have minimum weight requirements, so it’s important to check with them before bringing in your cans.
What Are Aluminum Cans Worth?
If you’re looking to make some extra cash, recycling aluminum cans is a great way to do it. But before you start collecting cans, you might be wondering how much they’re actually worth. Here’s what you need to know:
Factors That Affect Aluminum Can Prices
The price you can get for your aluminum cans will depend on a few different factors. One of the biggest factors is your location. Aluminum can prices can vary widely from one state to another, and even from one recycling center to another within the same state. According to GOBankingRates, the average price for aluminum cans in the US is around $0.64 per pound. However, this can vary depending on where you are. For example, in Michigan, the price can be as high as $0.10 per can, while in other states it might be closer to $0.03 per can.
Another factor that can affect aluminum can prices is the current market price for aluminum. Like any commodity, the price of aluminum can fluctuate based on supply and demand. If there is a high demand for aluminum, the price will go up, and if there is a surplus of aluminum, the price will go down.
How to Calculate the Value of Your Aluminum Cans
So, how do you figure out how much your aluminum cans are worth? The easiest way is to weigh them. It takes about 32 empty aluminum cans to make a pound, according to The Penny Hoarder. Once you know how many pounds of cans you have, you can use the average price per pound in your area to calculate the value of your cans.
For example, let’s say you have 50 pounds of aluminum cans and the average price in your area is $0.64 per pound. To calculate the value of your cans, you would multiply 50 by $0.64, which comes out to $32. Of course, this is just an estimate, and the actual price you get for your cans might be higher or lower depending on the factors we talked about earlier.
It’s also worth noting that some recycling centers might pay you based on the number of cans you bring in, rather than the weight. In this case, you’ll need to count your cans and find out how much the recycling center pays per can. This can be a bit more time-consuming, but it’s still a good way to make some extra cash while doing something good for the environment.
Where Can You Take Aluminum Cans for Money?
If you are looking to make some extra money by recycling aluminum cans, there are several options available to you. Here are some of the most common places where you can take your aluminum cans:
Local Recycling Centers
Most cities and towns have recycling centers that will accept aluminum cans. These centers typically pay by the pound, and the price can vary depending on the current market value of aluminum. To find a local recycling center, you can check your city or town’s website or do a quick online search.
Scrap Yards
Scrap yards are another option for recycling aluminum cans. These facilities specialize in buying and selling scrap metal, including aluminum cans. Scrap yards typically pay by the pound and may offer a higher price than local recycling centers. To find a scrap yard near you, you can check online directories or do a quick online search.
Can Redemption Centers
Can redemption centers are businesses that specialize in buying and recycling aluminum cans. These centers typically pay by the can and may offer a higher price than local recycling centers or scrap yards. Some redemption centers may also accept other recyclable materials, such as plastic bottles and glass containers. To find a can redemption center near you, you can check online directories or do a quick online search.
Curbside Pickup Services
Some cities and towns offer curbside pickup services for recyclable materials, including aluminum cans. These services typically provide a bin or container for you to place your recyclables in, which is then picked up by a waste management company. While curbside pickup services may be convenient, they may not offer the highest price for your aluminum cans. To find out if your city or town offers curbside pickup services, you can check your city or town’s website or contact your local waste management company.
Tips for Maximizing Your Aluminum Can Recycling Efforts
Preparing Your Aluminum Cans for Recycling
Before you take your aluminum cans to a recycling center, it’s important to prepare them properly. Make sure to remove any liquids or food residue from the cans to prevent contamination. Rinse the cans thoroughly with water and let them dry completely before recycling them.
You can also consider crushing your aluminum cans to save space and make them easier to transport. However, be sure not to crush the cans too much, as some recycling centers require the cans to be in a certain shape to be accepted.
Storing Your Aluminum Cans for Recycling
Storing your aluminum cans properly can help you maximize your recycling efforts. Consider using a separate container or bag to collect your aluminum cans, and make sure to keep them in a dry, cool place to prevent rusting.
If you have a large number of aluminum cans to recycle, you may want to consider investing in a can crusher or baler to help you store and transport them more efficiently.
Other Ways to Recycle Aluminum Cans
While recycling your aluminum cans at a recycling center is the most common way to recycle them, there are other ways you can recycle them as well. Consider reusing your aluminum cans for other purposes, such as using them as planters or pencil holders.
You can also consider donating your aluminum cans to local charities or organizations that collect them for fundraising purposes. This can be a great way to support a good cause while also recycling your aluminum cans.
