Aluminum Recycling

How to start an aluminum recycling center

By Nate Waymire, Freelance Writer
Aluminum recycling is a profitable venture for everyone involved. Many people save their recyclable items and turn them in to local recycling facilities for cash, which equals money for the individual as well as the aluminum recycling facility.

Open an aluminum recycling center where people can bring in their aluminum based materials. Once you have the aluminum, it will need to be sorted, processed and condensed before being sold to manufacturing companies.

When you start your own business to recycle aluminum, you will:


Build revenue with the the aluminum recycling process.
Provide a boost to the local economy.
Be recognized as a company that cares about saving the Earth's natural resources.

 

Get the proper licenses for your aluminum recycling business

To get started as an aluminum recycler, you must first obtain the land, construction and zoning permits you will need to open a drop-off center. The scales at your facility must be certified as governed by the State Department of Agriculture's Division of Measurement Standards, and your local or county government office.
Try: Contact your state government for more information about necessary permits and scale certification requirements.

Hire a company such as Burnham Nationwide to help you obtain the permits you will need.

Purchase aluminum recycling equipment

The aluminum recycling process requires specific equipment. Aluminum recyclers need machines to crush, compact and shred the scrap aluminum. Aluminum recycling machines and other necessary equipment are easily found online.
Try: Prodeva sells conveyors sorters, crushers and other aluminum recycling equipment. Compactors Inc. offers aluminum can densifiers, crushers, shredders and more.

Obtain collection barrels for your aluminum recycling center

Aluminum recyclers must also have plastic barrels and scales to collect and weigh the aluminum cans. Customers will pour the aluminum into the containers so that they may be weighed and turned in.
Try: Purchase containers for your facility. Choose the round, square or tilt truck style.