Aluminium drink cans pile up fast at home, at work, during events, and across countless everyday moments. Instead of letting them end up in general waste, Australians are increasingly turning to cash for cans programs to earn quick money while contributing to a cleaner environment. With the rise of digital recycling marketplaces such as ScrapTrade, earning from aluminium has never been easier, more transparent, or more secure.
This guide explores how cash-for-cans works, what aluminium cans are worth, and how online scrap trading platforms are reshaping the recycling industry for households, collectors, and businesses.
What Is Cash for Cans?
Cash for cans programs reward individuals for returning empty aluminium cans for recycling. Most states and territories in Australia operate a Container Deposit Scheme (CDS), where you earn 10 cents per eligible container.
But beyond government programs, aluminium cans hold metal value that can be traded on scrap marketplaces. Platforms like ScrapTrade allow sellers to list aluminium in bulk and connect with verified scrap buyers Australia-wide for better pricing.
Explore the platform here:
https://scraptrade.com.au/how-it-works
Why Aluminium Cans Are Valuable
Aluminium is endlessly recyclable. Recycling one aluminium can saves enough energy to power a TV for several hours. This high recyclability, combined with strong global demand, makes aluminium cans a consistent source of revenue.
Key reasons aluminium cans hold value:
• High metal recovery rate
• Strong demand from smelters
• Sustainable and lightweight
• Low processing cost
• Easily transportable in bulk
Australia’s push toward circular economy policies increases the demand for clean aluminium scrap. You can learn more about recycling regulations here:
https://sandsindustries.com.au/
How Much Can You Earn from Cash for Cans?
There are two main earning methods:
1. Container Deposit Scheme (10c Refunds)
Every eligible can earns you 10 cents at official return points. Schools, charities, and community groups often run aluminium collection drives for this reason.
2. Selling Aluminium Scrap Online
Aluminium scrap prices fluctuate based on global market trends. Bulk sellers—restaurants, event organisers, cafés, clubs, and recycling collectors—can earn higher payouts by selling through ScrapTrade’s online metal marketplace.
Check buyer listings here:
https://scraptrade.com.au/buy
Bulk aluminium cans (clean and sorted) often achieve competitive prices because buyers appreciate consistent, high-volume supply.
Why Use an Online Scrap Trading Platform for Aluminium Cans?
Traditional recycling depots offer fixed rates. Online scrap trading platforms give you access to multiple scrap buyers, improving your chances of receiving higher bids.
Benefits of selling cans through ScrapTrade:
• Verified scrap dealers only
• Secure payments backed by escrow
• Live price comparison
• Transparent bidding
• Bulk collection support for businesses
• Digital tracking, ensuring clean and honest deals
Sell scrap online instantly here:
https://scraptrade.com.au/sell
How to Sell Aluminium Cans for Cash – Step-by-Step
The process varies depending on whether you’re collecting a few bags or trading bulk aluminium volumes.
1. Collect and Sort Your Cans
Rinse and crush cans if possible. Clean aluminium attracts premium pricing, particularly for bulk buyers.
2. Choose Your Selling Method
Small amounts → CDS Refund Points
Large amounts → ScrapTrade online marketplace
3. List Your Aluminium Cans Online
Upload photos, describe your quantity, and set location.
Create your selling account here:
https://scraptrade.com.au/register
4. Compare Offers
Buyers compete for your aluminium, giving you price transparency.
5. Finalise the Deal
Buyers offer pickup or drop-off options depending on the volume.
Login to manage ongoing deals:
https://scraptrade.com.au/login
Who Benefits Most from Cash for Cans?
Families
Earn consistent pocket money by collecting cans from home, parks, or events.
Businesses
Cafés, bars, restaurants, and sports clubs generate thousands of cans weekly—turning waste into recurring revenue.
Schools & Community Groups
Cash for cans fundraising is simple, clean, and effective.
Full-Time Scrap Collectors
Bulk sellers often receive premium aluminium prices through digital marketplaces.
What Are Aluminium Cans Worth in the Scrap Market?
Aluminium scrap pricing is influenced by:
• Global commodity prices
• Quality (clean vs mixed)
• Volume
• Market demand
• Location and transport
ScrapTrade provides real-time market insights, helping sellers stay updated and avoid underselling.
Check aluminium categories under the marketplace:
https://scraptrade.com.au/buy
How ScrapTrade Makes Aluminium Trading Easier
ScrapTrade is reshaping how Australia trades scrap materials by combining:
• Secure escrow payments
• Verified buyers and sellers
• Real-time analytics
• Logistics support
• Accurate price matching
• Transparent bidding
Buyers get clean, consistent material, and sellers get competitive offers without haggling or uncertainty.
Learn more about the platform mission here:
https://scraptrade.com.au/about-us
Tips to Maximise Your Cash for Cans Earnings
Sort the Aluminium Properly
Keep aluminium separate from steel, plastic, and glass.
Clean and Crush
Clean cans reduce weight loss from contaminants and save space.
Sell in Bulk
Bulk sellers receive significantly better aluminium rates.
Track Market Trends
Metal prices change daily. ScrapTrade’s marketplace gives updated pricing.
Partner With Local Businesses
Offer to collect cans from cafés, offices, and community halls.
Is Cash for Cans Worth It?
Absolutely. Aluminium cans remain one of the most profitable and easiest recycling streams in Australia. Whether you’re collecting casually or trading in bulk, the combination of government refunds and online scrap marketplaces ensures consistent earnings.
A trusted digital platform like ScrapTrade gives sellers the power to compare prices, access verified buyers, and enjoy fully secure transactions—bringing transparency back into scrap trading.
For questions or assistance, visit:
https://scraptrade.com.au/contact-us