Disposing of old metal file cabinets can be a chore, but it’s important to do it properly. There are a few recommended methods for getting rid of metal file cabinets depending on your situation.
Donate Them
One of the best options is to donate your used file cabinets if they are still in good condition. Many secondhand stores, thrift shops, and donation centers will accept metal cabinets to resell or reuse.
Some places to consider donating to:
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore – They accept donations of furniture, appliances, home accessories and building materials.
- Salvation Army – They have drop-off locations to donate furniture and other household items.
- Goodwill – You can donate old file cabinets at any local Goodwill donation center.
- Local thrift stores – Check with any nearby thrift shops to see if they accept furniture donations.
- Office reuse stores – Stores specializing in used office furniture may accept donated file cabinets to resell.
- Community centers or churches – They may be able to use extra file cabinets for their own storage needs.
Donating is a great way to give used file cabinets a second life. Just make sure to call any donation centers first to confirm they can accept metal file cabinet donations.
Sell Them
If your file cabinets are in particularly good condition, you may be able to sell them for some extra cash. Here are some options for selling used metal file cabinets:
- Online selling platforms – List them on sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or other local selling apps and websites.
- Office liquidators – Businesses that buy used office furniture may be interested in purchasing metal filing cabinets.
- Scrap metal yards – While you won’t get as much as reselling, metal recycling centers will pay for the scrap metal value.
- Garage sales – File cabinets could be a popular item to advertise for any garage or yard sales.
- Office furniture resale stores – Some local used office furniture shops may buy outright or allow you to consign high-quality metal filing cabinets.
Take some time to clean and organize the file cabinets before selling to potentially increase the selling price. Make sure to advertise plenty of details and photos of the units.
Recycle Them
If the file cabinets are broken or in poor condition, then recycling the metal is likely the best option. Here are some tips for recycling old metal filing cabinets:
- Contact your local municipal recycling service – Check if they have guidelines for recycling metal items as large as file cabinets. They may require you to drop them off.
- Use metal recycling drop-off centers – Look for scrap metal recycling businesses that will accept file cabinets. Be prepared to show identification.
- Schedule a bulk pickup – If your city waste services offers bulk trash pickup, you can schedule an appointment for them to pick up large metal items curbside. There may be a fee.
- Remove any non-metal parts – Take off any wooden or plastic handles, drawers, or cabinet pieces before recycling just the metal portions.
- Break down into sections – If necessary, dismantle the cabinets into smaller pieces if required by your local recycling center.
Recycling ensures the metal components won’t end up in a landfill. Call ahead to verify any requirements before transporting file cabinets to a metal recycling facility.
Dispose of Them in the Trash
As a last resort, you can dispose of old metal file cabinets in your regular household trash. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you must take this route:
- Check with your local waste provider – Contact them to see if they have any regulations against throwing away large metal objects.
- Remove drawers and hardware – Take out any removable parts to lighten the weight before placing in the trash.
- Rent a dumpster – If you don’t have city trash pickup, consider renting a dumpster to have room for file cabinets.
- Break down the cabinets – Use tools to take them apart into smaller pieces if necessary to fit in curbside bins.
- Schedule a special pickup – See if your waste company offers a bulky item trash pickup service.
Disposing of file cabinets in the garbage should be a last option. It’s best to pursue recycling or repurposing if possible. If you must trash them, try to break down into smaller pieces first.
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions and answers about disposing of old metal file cabinets:
What are some responsible ways to get rid of my old file cabinets?
Some responsible disposal options include donating to reuse organizations, selling or consigning them, recycling the metal components at a scrap yard, and breaking down the cabinets to fit in normal trash pickup if all else fails.
How much could I potentially get for selling used file cabinets?
Depending on the brand, age, size and condition, you may be able to sell used metal file cabinets for $50 to $200 per cabinet locally. Larger premium quality cabinets could go for even more on resale sites.
Should I remove the drawers before recycling file cabinets?
Yes, it’s best to remove any drawers or other non-metal parts before bringing file cabinets to a metal recycling facility. Facilities usually only want the steel cabinet frames without attachments.
What if my local recycling doesn’t accept metal file cabinets?
If your curbside pickup won’t take metal file cabinets, look for scrap metal drop-off recycling centers in your area that specialize in larger metal objects. You may need to haul the cabinets yourself.
Can I put old file cabinets out on the curb for trash pickup?
You’ll need to check with your city’s waste disposal department. Items as large and heavy as filing cabinets may exceed limits for curbside trash pickup. Be prepared to break them down into smaller pieces.
Conclusion
Getting rid of old metal file cabinets requires a bit of time and effort. With so many disposal options available, you should be able to find an appropriate solution, whether it’s donating, selling, recycling, or lastly placing in the trash if broken down into smaller pieces. Be sure to check your local regulations and contact any pickup or drop-off locations in advance before hauling away those old metal file cabinets. With some smart planning, you can keep them out of the landfill.