How to dispose of cardboard boxes in NYC

Answer sources: NYC311 recycling rules and cardboard

Choose the right set-out method

For a standard building, use tied cardboard bundles and follow your building’s collection day. For a mechanized-collection building, use the designated collapsed-cardboard dumpster rather than putting out a bundle.

If the boxes are reusable, compare cardboard-box donation options before putting them out.

Sources: NYC311 recycling rules and cardboard.

When Dropcurb fits

Dropcurb can handle accepted empty cardboard outside, with loading, transport and disposal included. Count each loose empty box individually, or select one tied bundle for every 10 empty, flattened boxes. Add leftover boxes individually and remove packing materials. Move the boxes to an accessible outdoor location before pickup; you can book before moving them outside. If you need indoor carrying, choose a service that includes that labor.

Sources: Dropcurb current pricing and standard pickup scope.

Common questions

how to recycle cardboard boxes nyc

Flatten dry corrugated cardboard, remove plastic packing, tie it with strong twine into bundles no taller than 18 inches, and set it out from 6 p.m. to midnight before collection. Mechanized-collection buildings use their designated collapsed-cardboard dumpster instead.

Current Dropcurb prices

Scroll to compare all columns

Item	Pickup of one	Each additional
Empty cardboard box	$59	$5
10 flattened cardboard boxes	$79	$20

For accepted items outside and accessible. Your pickup uses the highest first-item price, plus the additional-item price for each remaining item. Loading, transportation and disposal are included. Prices are before applicable sales tax; see your total before payment.

See item definitions and the pricing calculation