FAQ
What is the Paper Retriever Program?
It is a FREE community paper recycling program that pays your organization for recycling, benefiting the environment for all.
What can be put in the bin?
We accept newspapers, magazines, catalogs, fax paper, school and office paper, notebooks, folders, and mail.
Where does the recyclable paper go after it is picked up from the Paper Retriever bin?
Paper placed in the Paper Retriever is directly recycled back into newsprint, tissue and paper within a couple months of it being collected.
When will you deliver our recycling bin?
We will place your bin at the earliest agreed upon date after signing up with our program. Alert us if you need it by or on a specific date.
Are inside containers provided?
No, but most locations use cardboard boxes to collect their recycled paper. In addition, economically priced desk side containers are available to purchase from us or at locations such as Staples, Office Depot, Home Depot, etc.
Will trash get in the bins?
Based on twelve years of data collected during the time the program has been running, the amount of trash found in the clearly-marked recycling bins amounts to less than 1%. Also, since the bins are placed in highly visible locations, people are less apt to abuse it. In the unlikely event trash becomes an issue; we will make you aware of the situation and work with you to resolve the issue.
How much paper does a recycling bin hold?
A Paper Retriever bin will hold between 1,000 to 2,000 pounds of paper. Less if the paper is simply loose office paper or shredded paper; more if the contents are the newspapers, catalogs and magazines that you should encourage.
What is the size of the recycling bin?
The Paper Retriever bins are 7-cubic-yard with dimensions of approximately 6’x6’x6’ (slightly smaller than a parking spot).
When is Payment for Fundraiser Program?
A Recycling Scorecard and a check will arrive around the 30th of the following month (once the material rebate has accrued to our $50 minimum).
How often are the bins emptied?
The bins are emptied on a regular pickup schedule. However, you must call for your first pickup. Should your bin fill up prior to your next scheduled pickup date, call Recycling Services of Florida Customer Service nearest you. We will schedule an additional pickup. If your bin is repeatedly filling up prior to your scheduled pickup, we will provide an additional bin, also at no charge.
How is the weight of the materials in the bins determined?
There is a computerized scale on the truck that weighs the paper at the time of pickup.
Can I put cereal boxes, chipboard, milk cartons, soda cartons, food cartons or tissue products in the bin?
No, please. We cannot recycle any of these items to make newsprint. We also do not accept cardboard with the Free Paper Retriever program.
Is shredded paper allowed in the bin?
Yes and no. We do not accept plastic bags in the program. All shredded paper should be emptied from plastic bags at the bins. No other paper should ever be bagged with plastic. Start asking for paper bags at the Grocery store!