Reel types
Plastic reels
Plastic reels don't rot, so they last until they crack. Whole ones are reusable, and some programs take them back. Broken ones belong in a plastics stream, never in the wood roll-off.
Return it
CommScope names Sonoco as the vendor for its composite-only reels. Sonoco's EcoReel program lists polyfiber reels alongside wood, free, by the truckload.
Reuse it
Whole plastic reels are useful to anyone winding short lengths of cable, rope or hose. Keep them nested by size.
Recycle it
Broken reels go to a plastics recycler that takes that resin. Look for a moulded resin code, pull metal bushings and staples, and keep plastic out of the wood roll-off.
The pickup request on this site covers wood reels. Start plastic reels with the programs below. More detail in plastic reel options.
Programs that take plastic reels
| Program | Rules | Minimum | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| CommScope | Pick the vendor for your reel type: wood-only reels, composite-only reels, or steel reels each go to a different vendor. | A full-load quantity before you request a pickup. | Free |
| Sonoco EcoReel | Wooden and polyfiber reels. Damaged reels are repaired and refurbished. | Truckloads, from a single load to an ongoing supply. | Free |