Recycling Services
Comprehensive recycling programs that keep industrial packaging out of landfills. We process every material type with a zero-waste commitment.
Our Recycling Program
At IBC Recycle, recycling is not a sideline -- it is at the heart of everything we do. Our comprehensive program handles every type of industrial container and packaging material, from corrugated IBC totes to steel IBC tote cages to wood pallet bases.
Our approach prioritizes reuse first. Any container that still has functional life is cleaned, graded, and returned to service. Only when a container is truly at end of life does it enter our recycling stream, where we extract maximum value from every material component.
The result is a circular system that minimizes waste, conserves natural resources, and reduces the carbon footprint of industrial packaging. For our customers, it means a simple, responsible way to handle used containers without the hassle of managing multiple waste vendors.
Materials We Recycle
We handle every material found in industrial containers and packaging. Nothing is turned away. Each material has a dedicated processing stream optimized for maximum recovery.
Corrugated Cardboard
IBC totes, shipping cartons, and corrugated sheets are baled and sent to paper mills where they are pulped and made into new corrugated products. Corrugated is one of the most successfully recycled materials in the world, with recovery rates exceeding 90%.
HDPE Plastic
IBC tote bottles and plastic containers are cleaned, shredded, and pelletized for reuse. High-density polyethylene retains its properties through multiple recycling cycles, making it one of the most recyclable plastics available.
Steel & Metals
IBC tote cage frames, steel containers, and metal components are separated, sorted, and sent to metal recyclers. Steel is infinitely recyclable without loss of quality, making it one of the most sustainable materials in industrial packaging.
Wood & Lumber
Wood components from IBC tote pallet bases and wood containers that cannot be repaired are dismantled. Usable lumber is salvaged. Remaining wood is processed into mulch, animal bedding, biomass fuel, or particleboard.
Polypropylene & Other Plastics
Strapping, container lids, and other polypropylene components are separated from mixed streams and recycled into new plastic products. We also process polyethylene films and wraps from container packaging.
Mixed & Composite Materials
Composite containers and multi-material packaging are carefully disassembled and each material stream is separated for appropriate recycling. We invest in the labor to ensure maximum diversion from landfill.
The Recycling Process
From pickup to processing to final disposition, here is our complete eight-step recycling process that ensures maximum material recovery and full documentation.
Collection & Pickup
We collect used containers directly from your facility using our fleet or arranged freight carriers. Scheduled pickups are available for businesses with regular volumes.
Receiving & Documentation
Every load is weighed, documented, and photographed upon arrival at our facility. You receive a receipt confirming the materials received, which begins the chain of custody for your recycling records.
Sorting & Assessment
Every incoming container is assessed. Items that can be reused are cleaned, graded, and added to our resale inventory. Items beyond reuse enter the recycling stream.
Disassembly & Separation
Multi-material containers are disassembled and materials are separated by type: corrugated, plastic, steel, wood, and other components. Clean separation ensures higher-quality recycling output.
Cleaning & Decontamination
Containers that held chemicals, food products, or other substances are cleaned and decontaminated before processing. Wash water is treated and disposed of responsibly according to environmental regulations.
Processing & Baling
Each material is processed according to its type. Cardboard is baled, plastic is shredded and pelletized, metals are sorted and prepared for smelting, and wood is chipped or milled.
Quality Control
Processed materials undergo quality checks to ensure they meet the specifications of downstream recyclers and manufacturers. Contaminated batches are re-processed to maintain high quality standards.
Responsible Disposition & Reporting
Processed materials are sent to certified downstream recyclers and manufacturers who transform them into new products. We maintain chain-of-custody documentation and provide your environmental impact report.
Environmental Impact Data
Our recycling operations deliver measurable environmental benefits every year. Here are the numbers from our most recent annual report.
Containers Processed Annually
Tons of Material Diverted from Landfill
Trees Saved Through Cardboard Recycling
Gallons of Water Conserved
Material Recovery Rate
Metric Tons of CO2 Avoided
Recycling vs. Landfill: The Real Comparison
Many businesses default to landfill disposal because they think it is easier. Here is why recycling with IBC Recycle is better in every measurable way.
| Factor | Landfill Disposal | IBC Recycle Program |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | You pay disposal fees ($40-$80/ton) | We pay you for reusable containers |
| Environmental Impact | Materials lost permanently | 95%+ material recovery rate |
| Logistics | Schedule dumpster + hauler | We handle everything -- one call |
| Documentation | Basic waste manifests only | Full environmental impact reports for ESG |
| Revenue | Zero -- pure cost center | Earn revenue from your used containers |
| Compliance | Potential liability exposure | Certificate of Recycling provided |
| Carbon Footprint | Increases your CO2 output | Measurably reduces your CO2 output |
| Brand Image | Negative sustainability perception | Demonstrates environmental leadership |
Certificate of Recycling
Every recycling engagement includes a Certificate of Recycling that documents exactly what was processed, how it was processed, and where the recovered materials were sent. This certificate serves as verified proof of responsible disposal for your compliance and sustainability records.
Material Quantities
Detailed breakdown by material type (corrugated, plastic, metal, wood) with weights in tons.
Processing Methods
Description of how each material stream was processed -- baling, shredding, pelletizing, etc.
Downstream Destinations
Names and locations of the certified recycling facilities that received your processed materials.
Environmental Metrics
CO2 equivalent avoided, water conserved, trees saved, and landfill diversion totals.
ESG & Sustainability Reporting Support
More companies than ever need verifiable environmental data for ESG filings, annual sustainability reports, and regulatory compliance. Our recycling program provides exactly the kind of documented, measurable impact data that sustainability teams need.
Quarterly Impact Reports
Detailed reports every quarter showing tons recycled, materials recovered, and environmental metrics.
GRI-Aligned Metrics
Our reporting follows Global Reporting Initiative standards for consistency with your existing ESG framework.
Custom Report Formats
We can format data to match your internal reporting templates or specific compliance requirements.
Year-Over-Year Tracking
Track your recycling progress over time to demonstrate continuous improvement in sustainability performance.
Recycling Revenue
Your used containers are not waste -- they are a resource with real market value. Through our recycling and buyback program, many clients turn what was once a disposal cost into a revenue stream.
We purchase containers suitable for resale at fair market value. This is where the highest value is recovered.
Containers beyond reuse still have material value. We share the commodity value of recovered corrugated, plastic, and metal with qualifying partners.
Even when material values are low, our program eliminates your disposal costs entirely -- no more waste hauler invoices.
Zero Waste Programs
We have committed to a zero-waste-to-landfill operational standard. This means that every container and material that enters our facility is either reused, recycled, or converted into a useful secondary product. Nothing is discarded in a landfill. We can help your facility achieve the same standard.
Reuse First
Every container is evaluated for reuse potential before entering the recycling stream.
Complete Processing
Multi-material items are fully disassembled and each component is recycled separately.
Verified Outcomes
We track every material to its final destination and provide documentation for your records.
Pickup Services
We make recycling easy by coming to you. Our pickup services are designed to fit your schedule and volume, so recycling never disrupts your operations.
On-Demand Pickup
Call when you have containers ready and we will dispatch a truck, typically within 48-72 hours.
Scheduled Recurring Pickups
Set up weekly, biweekly, or monthly pickup schedules for consistent container flows.
Nationwide Coverage
Our fleet and partner carriers provide pickup services across the continental United States.
Free for Bulk Quantities
Pickup is free for truckload quantities. Smaller volumes may involve a nominal freight charge.
Ready to Start Recycling?
Whether you have a one-time surplus or an ongoing stream of used containers, we have a recycling solution for you. Contact us to discuss your needs and set up service.
Schedule a PickupFrequently Asked Questions
Is there a cost for your recycling program?
Bulk reusable or recyclable loads are typically free to pick up and often generate payment; only very small or contaminated loads may incur a fee.
What is your material recovery rate?
We recover about 95% of incoming material, sending only non-recyclable contaminants to responsible disposal.
Do you provide environmental impact documentation?
Yes. Certificates of Recycling plus diversion, CO2, water, and recovery metrics are available, with quarterly reports for recurring programs.
Can you handle containers that held hazardous materials?
Yes, with proper SDS documentation. Licensed decontamination processes handle hazmat containers before recycling.
What happens after pickup?
Reusable containers are cleaned, graded, and resold; end-of-life units are disassembled and each material stream is recycled.
How does this support ESG compliance?
We provide GRI-aligned data covering diversion, carbon reduction, water savings, and circularity for ESG reporting.
Can I earn money from recycling my containers?
Yes. Reusable units generate payment; recyclable commodities also carry value based on market pricing and condition.
Do you offer recurring recycling pickups?
We schedule recurring pickups with locked logistics for facilities that generate consistent volumes.
What is the minimum pickup quantity?
Free pickups typically start around 10 units; smaller loads can be combined or shipped to our facility.
Start Your Recycling Program
Tell us about the types and volumes of containers you need recycled and we will design a program that fits your operation.