Reel types
Steel reels
A steel reel is usually somebody's property, and usually worth more as a returned reel than as scrap. Treat it as returnable until the owner says otherwise.
Find the tag
A stencilled serial number or metal tag identifies the owner. Okonite uses a red ID tag, and RM or RMT codes mark returnable metal reels.
Match the invoice
A reel charge line shows who billed the reel and when. Southwire credits the full charge if the reel comes back within 12 months of shipment.
Request the return the owner's way
Southwire takes requests by email, web or app, not phone. Okonite uses an online form or phone. CommScope sends steel reels to its listed vendors.
Ship only when authorised
Wait for shipping instructions. Unauthorised freight above the owner's least-cost method can be billed to you.
Scrap only once released
When no one will take it back, a steel reel is scrap steel, sold by weight. Southwire's chart puts its steel reels at 340 to over 2,800 lb empty for the sizes we list.
Full walk-through: steel reel returns and reel deposits explained.
Programs that take steel 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 |
| Southwire | Steel reels: returnable, credit within 12 months of shipment. Wooden reels: listed as non-returnable in the CableTech packaging chart. | Not stated. | Credit on return |
| Okonite | Steel reels. | Not stated. | Not stated |
| Blue Diamond Industries | Metal reels. Wooden or missing staves make a reel unacceptable. | At least 50 flanges. | Free pickup or credit |