Question 1

What types of paper and cardboard do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept OCC (corrugated cardboard), office paper (white and colored), mixed paper, newspaper, magazines, kraft paper, paperboard, shredded paper (must be bagged), and books. The key requirement is that materials are dry and free of food contamination.

Question 2

Does contamination matter?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Wet, greasy, or food-contaminated paper can't be recycled and contaminates the entire load. Pizza boxes with grease, paper plates with food waste, and waxed cardboard are common contaminants. We provide signage and training to minimize contamination.

Question 3

Can I get paid for my cardboard?

Accepted Answer

Clean OCC at sufficient volume (typically 2+ tons per pickup) often qualifies for commodity rebates. Market prices fluctuate, but we pass through current rates and adjust quarterly. Even when rebates aren't available, recycling is typically cheaper than landfill disposal.

Question 4

Do you provide compactors or balers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. For businesses generating 2+ tons per week, on-site compactors or balers dramatically reduce volume, cutting pickup frequency by 50-75%. We handle equipment placement, maintenance, and service — usually at no additional charge for qualifying volumes.

Question 5

How often do you pick up?

Accepted Answer

Frequency is matched to your generation rate. Retail stores typically need weekly pickup. Distribution centers may need 2-3 times per week or daily during peak season. We adjust schedules seasonally so you're never over-serviced or overflowing.

Question 6

What documentation do I receive?

Accepted Answer

Weight tickets for every pickup and monthly summary reports with total tonnage recycled, diversion rate, and commodity pricing (if applicable). Annual sustainability reports are available for ESG disclosures.

Question 7

Can shredded paper be recycled?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but it must be bagged to prevent it from blowing around during transport and contaminating other material streams. Shredded paper has a lower commodity value than whole paper but is still recyclable.

Question 8

What's the minimum volume for service?

Accepted Answer

For scheduled service, we generally need at least one cubic yard of cardboard per pickup. For smaller volumes, we can include paper and cardboard in a mixed recycling or single-stream program. Contact us for options in your area.

Paper Shredding Cardboard & Paper Recycling Recycling — Frequently Asked Questions