Reel clearance for contractors and plants
What reels do you have?
Some of your empty cable reels go back to their maker for free. The rest are worth a pickup. Measure one reel to find out which is which.
Already know? Request a pickup or check the take-back directory.
Every empty reel has one of four routes
Back to its maker
5 programs in our directory offer free pickup of empty reels: Service Wire, CommScope, Prysmian, AFL, Sonoco EcoReel. Most take their own brand only, and all want empty reels by the truckload.
Reuse
Sound nailed-wood reels in common sizes go back into service after refurbishing. In volume, they can be worth something. Wood reels.
Recycle
Rotten, broken, plywood and glued reels go to wood recycling. Plastic reels go to a plastics recycler. How to tell the builds apart.
Return before scrap
Steel reels usually carry a charge that is credited when the reel goes back. Southwire's credit window is 12 months. Steel reels.
Take-back programs, side by side
Each one is checked against its own published terms. The full table has rules, contacts and sources.
| Program | Whose reels | Minimum | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Service Wire | Own brand only | Full truckload of Service Wire reels. | Free |
| CommScope | Own brand only | A full-load quantity before you request a pickup. | Free |
| Prysmian | Own brand only | 80 reels for 45 to 54 in flanges, 60 for 58 to 72 in, 40 for 78 to 84 in. | Free |
| Southwire | Own brand only | Not stated. | Credit on return |
| Okonite | Own brand only | Not stated. | Not stated |
| AFL | Not limited to one brand | Full truckloads only (Sonoco sends a 53 ft van or 48 ft flatbed). | Free |
| Sonoco EcoReel | Not limited to one brand | Truckloads, from a single load to an ongoing supply. | Free |
| Blue Diamond Industries | Own brand only | At least 50 flanges. | Free pickup or credit |
Three tools, no sign-up
Reel identifier
Flange, traverse and drum in; designation, closest published size, take-back fit and route out. Identify a reel.
Take-back directory
Reels accepted, material rules, minimum load, cost, how to schedule, source and date for each program. Browse programs.
Yard math
Counts by size into floor area, trailer fit stood on flange, and truckloads, with the arithmetic shown. Count the yard.
Common questions
Can I return cable reels to the manufacturer?
Often yes, but usually only that manufacturer's own reels, and usually in volume. Check its program terms in the take-back directory.
Does Service Wire take other brands' reels?
No. Service Wire's free reel return is for Service Wire labelled reels only, by the full truckload.
Why are plywood reels refused?
Some programs accept nailed solid wood only. AFL's says no plywood reels are recyclable through it, and Service Wire's requires nailed wood. Plywood flanges are hard to repair once weathered.
How are reels sized?
By flange diameter x inside traverse x drum diameter, in inches, for example 48x28x24. Manufacturers' reel charts use these dimensions, and NEMA WC 26 is the industry's packaging standard.
Do I need to remove leftover cable?
Yes. Take-back programs require empty reels. AFL allows only the tie-down end piece, and Prysmian may charge a fee for leftover cable.
Are damaged reels worth anything?
Sound but weathered reels can still qualify: programs accept scuffs, dents and weathered wood. Rotten, warped or broken reels are recycled.
What happens to recycled wooden reels?
Reusable reels are repaired and refurbished for another trip; Service Wire paints its refurbished reels green. Reels past repair are processed as wood waste, typically ground for mulch or fuel.
Are steel reels recyclable?
Yes, as scrap steel, but many are returnable reels with a credit attached. Southwire, for one, credits steel reels returned within 12 months. Return them first.
How many reels make a pickup worthwhile?
It depends on size and on who is sending the truck. Programs usually want a full truckload; yard math shows how much of a truck your reels fill.
Will someone pay for my reels?
Reusable sizes in volume can have value. Get a quote first, with sizes, counts and condition.
Clear the yard in one pickup
Send sizes, counts and ZIP. We flag what can go back for free and quote the rest. Pickups are handled by Repackify.