Collecting old newspapers and selling them to a recycling plant is a simple and effective way to make extra money. While selling a few stacks of newspapers you’ve accumulated may not bring in a significant amount of income, the potential to make $300 or more every weekend exists if you are organized and collect from multiple houses in your neighborhood. The current rate for old newspapers is around $50 per ton, although this may vary depending on your location. It is also possible to make money by collecting and selling flattened cardboard boxes, which typically bring in around $75 per ton.
To start, you will need to find a storage space, such as a section of your garage or a dry garden shed. You can then advertise your services by placing an ad in the local newspaper or shopping news, and visit your neighbors to let them know that you will be collecting and hauling away their old newspapers and cardboard boxes for a fee. On Saturdays, gather a team of helpers, such as family members or hired students, and rent a trailer to transport the materials. As you make your rounds, be sure to have a sign on your trailer or car that clearly identifies your paper collection service.
When your trailer is full, you can either sell the load directly to the recycling plant or unload it and organize it in your storage space. It is important to continue collecting as many loads as possible during the daylight hours, rather than taking breaks or celebrating your earnings. By consistently making the same rounds and expanding to new neighborhoods, you can increase your profits. As a bonus, you will also be helping to reduce waste and contribute to the recycling efforts in your community.
In addition to collecting newspapers and cardboard, there are a few other steps you can take to maximize your profits. First, consider offering additional services, such as hauling away other types of recyclables or providing general clean-up services to your customers. You can also negotiate a higher rate with the recycling plant if you consistently bring in large quantities of material. Finally, it may be helpful to invest in equipment such as a hand truck or dolly to make it easier to transport and load the materials.
While collecting and selling newspapers and cardboard may not be a full-time job, it can be a useful way to supplement your income and make a positive impact on the environment. With some organization and effort, you can turn this simple idea into a profitable business venture.