Ultimate Guide To Farm Equipment Recycling

Gregory Cunningham
Jun 25
14 min read

Updated: Sep 1

Farm equipment recycling helps farmers dispose of old machinery responsibly while recovering valuable materials like metals, plastics, and rubber. It reduces waste, conserves resources, and can even generate income. Here's what you need to know:

Why Recycle?Recycling farm equipment saves energy, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and prevents environmental damage. It also helps farmers comply with strict regulations and avoid fines.
What Can Be Recycled?
- Machinery: Tractors, harvesters, plows, and irrigation systems.
- Materials: Steel, aluminum, plastics (LDPE, HDPE, PP), rubber (tires, belts), and batteries.
- Hazardous Components: Fluids like oil and coolant, as well as electronic parts, require special handling.

How to Prepare Equipment for Recycling:
1. Drain Fluids: Safely remove oil, fuel, and hydraulic fluids.
2. Dismantle Parts: Separate reusable and recyclable components.
3. Sort Materials: Organize by type (metal, plastic, rubber, etc.).
4. Handle Hazardous Items: Dispose of batteries and chemicals at certified facilities.
Recycling Methods:
- On-Site Dismantling: Saves transport costs but requires expertise.
- Off-Site Recycling: Convenient but involves transport fees.
- Professional Hauling: Best for hazardous materials but may cost more.
Finding Recycling Services:Look for certified recyclers with proper permits and a good compliance record. Services like
Dump & Go offer tailored solutions for farms, including on-site dismantling and waste transport.

Recycling Method	Cost	Convenience	Best For
On-Site Dismantling	Low	Requires expertise	Large farms with tools and knowledge
Off-Site Recycling	Moderate	Minimal involvement	Farms of all sizes
Professional Hauling	High	Maximum convenience	Farms handling hazardous materials

Recycling farm equipment benefits both your farm and the environment. By following proper steps and working with certified providers, you can reduce waste, avoid legal issues, and even earn money from salvaged parts.

Types of Farm Equipment and Materials You Can Recycle

Farm Equipment You Can Recycle

Most farm machinery is recyclable, offering valuable materials like metals that recycling facilities can process. From tractors and combines to plows and tillers, these machines can be repurposed rather than discarded.

For example, hay balers

need to have hydraulic oil and chemical residues removed before recycling. Similarly, irrigation systems - including pipes, pumps, and sprinkler components - contain metals and plastics that can be recycled. When it comes to livestock feeding equipment, proper dismantling and removal of organic residue are necessary before recycling.

To ensure the process is done safely and efficiently, it's wise to collaborate with a trusted scrap metal service that can assess and handle the recycling appropriately.

Materials You Can Recycle

Farm equipment is packed with materials that recyclers actively seek. Steel and aluminum

, which make up a large portion of most machinery, are widely recycled because they can be melted down and reused without losing their strength or quality.

Modern farm equipment also contains various types of plastics, such as LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene)

, PP (Polypropylene), and HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene). These plastics are often found in agricultural films used for greenhouse coverings, mulching, and silage wrapping. Recycling these materials involves several steps: shredding the plastic into smaller pieces, washing to remove contaminants like soil and oil, drying to eliminate moisture, and pelletizing the material through extrusion systems.

Rubber components, especially tractor tires, can be shredded and repurposed into new rubber products, used as fuel, or processed into materials for making or re-treading tires.

Batteries from farm machinery are another valuable resource, as they contain materials that can be recovered and reused in new battery production. Additionally, modern equipment often includes electronic components that can be dismantled and reconditioned for use in devices like computers and mobile phones. Recycling codes on products help separate materials for proper processing.

Material Type	Common Sources	Recycling Process	End Products
Steel/Aluminum	Engine blocks, frames	Melting and reforming	New machinery, construction materials
LDPE Plastics	Agricultural films, covers	Shredding, washing, pelletizing	Garbage bags, drainage pipes, packaging
Rubber	Tractor tires, belts	Shredding, processing	New tires, fuel, rubber products
Electronics	Control systems, displays	Dismantling, component recovery	Refurbished electronics, raw materials

Hazardous Components

While much of farm equipment is recyclable, some parts require specialized handling due to their potential environmental impact. For instance, fluids like engine oil, hydraulic fluid, coolant, and fuel

can contaminate soil and groundwater if not properly drained before recycling.

Batteries, which often contain corrosive acids and heavy metals, must be collected and processed at certified facilities to prevent environmental and health risks. Similarly, electronic components may contain hazardous materials like lead and mercury, requiring careful recycling methods.

Improper disposal of chemicals poses additional risks. For example, runoff from chemicals can pollute rivers and lakes, harming aquatic life and ecosystems. Fertilizers with excessive nutrients can cause algae blooms, leading to oxygen depletion in water bodies - a process known as eutrophication.

Certified recycling facilities play a critical role in handling these hazardous components safely and in compliance with regulations at all levels. In February 2025, Recycle West

highlighted the importance of following best practices for hazardous waste management to protect the environment and ensure sustainable farming operations.

Even plastics recovered from farm equipment can present challenges, with surface contamination levels ranging from 30% to 80%, primarily due to soil and plant debris.

Can We Make Any Money with Old Farm Junk?

How to Prepare Farm Equipment for Recycling

Getting farm equipment ready for recycling involves a few key steps to ensure safety, maximize material recovery, and comply with regulations. These steps focus on three main areas: removing hazardous materials, preparing equipment for transport, and managing the necessary paperwork. By following these guidelines, you can protect yourself, meet legal requirements, and contribute to environmentally responsible recycling.

Drain Fluids and Remove Hazardous Items

Once you’ve identified the parts of the equipment that can be recycled, start by safely removing any hazardous substances. Here’s how to go about it:

Prioritize Safety: Wear protective gear like chemical-resistant gloves, overalls, goggles, and a P2 facemask or P3 respirator to shield yourself from harmful chemicals and fumes.
Drain Fluids: Safely empty all engine fluids, including oil, hydraulic fluid, coolant, and fuel, into approved containers to prevent spills or contamination.

Handle the Battery: Inspect the battery for corrosion. If needed, clean it with a baking soda solution and a brush. Carefully disconnect the battery and recycle it at a facility equipped to handle such materials.

Dismantling and Preparing for Transport

Breaking down large machinery makes it easier to transport and ensures maximum recovery of recyclable materials. A systematic approach is key:

Plan and Assess: Create a work plan, conduct a safety evaluation, and ensure you have the necessary permits in place.
Remove Contaminants: Use spill kits, absorbents, and proper containers to eliminate any leftover lubricants, fuels, or coolants.

Disconnect Power Sources: Follow lockout/tagout procedures to prevent accidental restarts while disassembling the equipment.
Disassemble Components: Take apart major parts like engines, transmissions, and attachments (e.g., buckets or blades) using tools such as jacks, hoists, or cutting torches. For larger structural components like frames, use welding and cutting tools, ensuring sparks and debris are contained with barriers.
Sort Materials: Separate the dismantled parts into categories - recyclable, reusable, and waste. Use forklifts, bins, and tagging systems to keep everything organized.
Clean and Inspect: Use approved cleaning agents to remove residues and inspect parts with tools like micrometers or calipers to determine their condition.
Secure for Transport: Package parts securely using containers, crates, or waterproof coverings. Arrange transportation with flatbed trucks or trailers to protect the materials during transit.

Documentation and Legal Requirements

Proper documentation is critical for meeting legal requirements and ensuring smooth processing at recycling facilities. Here’s what you’ll need:

Proof of Ownership: Have documents like purchase receipts, registration papers, or transfer titles ready to verify legal possession of the equipment.
Follow Regulations: Adhere to federal and state rules under the
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) for hazardous waste management and recycling. Check state-specific requirements and consult your local EPA Regional Office if needed.

Identify Hazardous Waste: Determine if any waste materials meet hazardous waste criteria. For instance, in California, materials must comply with state-defined hazardous waste standards.
Transportation Rules: Familiarize yourself with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations for hauling heavy equipment. Each state has its own guidelines to ensure road safety.
Keep Records: Maintain detailed records of how materials were disposed of and the methods used for dismantling.

For farms in New England handling large-scale equipment recycling, companies like Dump & Go provide services to manage site removals and transport materials, ensuring compliance with local regulations and efficient disposal of non-recyclable waste.

How to Find and Choose Farm Equipment Recycling Services

Choosing the right service to recycle your farm equipment takes some effort, but it’s worth it to ensure your needs are met while adhering to regulations. With a bit of preparation, you can connect with dependable providers who can handle your specific requirements.

Finding Authorized Services

Start by looking for certified recycling facilities that specialize in farm equipment. The EPA recommends working with certified recyclers who meet strict safety and environmental standards, verified by independent third-party audits. Two key certifications to look for are the Responsible Recycling ("R2") Standard for Electronics Recyclers

and the e-Stewards® Standard for Responsible Recycling and Reuse of Electronic Equipment.

You can verify these certifications through official platforms, such as NAID

’s website, which allows you to filter for certified providers. This step is critical because over 134 IT and electronics recycling facilities have faced penalties, had certifications revoked, or been caught exporting waste to developing countries in Africa and Asia.

It’s also essential to check state-specific regulations, as some states have stricter standards than federal guidelines. Make sure the recycler complies with both federal and state requirements and has a clean compliance history.

Once you’ve identified authorized providers, evaluate them based on the services they offer.

What to Look for in a Service Provider

Look for providers that offer excellent customer service, clear pricing, and local convenience, such as pick-up options. A strong reputation, backed by positive online reviews and industry association memberships, is another key indicator of reliability.

Material handling capabilities should align with your recycling needs. Confirm that the recycler accepts the types of metal you’re disposing of - whether ferrous or nonferrous - and can manage common recyclables like paper, scrap metal, and even more challenging waste.

Equipment and compliance are equally important. Check if the provider offers on-site equipment like balers or compactors and whether they handle maintenance and training. Above all, ensure they comply with environmental regulations and hold the necessary permits and certifications.

"Recycling and waste reduction is the cornerstone of sustainability. Recycling is one concrete, tangible way people can have less of an impact on the environment." - Alec Cooley, Senior Advisor at Busch Systems

Once you’ve chosen a provider, think about practical waste removal options to streamline the process.

Using Dumpster and Hauling Services

Dumpster rental services are a convenient way to manage farm waste, including scrap metal, old tools, and other agricultural debris. Many services even dismantle old equipment to make recycling easier.

Choose a dumpster size that fits your needs - typically, a 20-yard dumpster can handle up to 6,000 pounds of waste. This helps optimize transport and avoid overage fees. Professional hauling services ensure your waste is transported efficiently and disposed of in an eco-friendly way.

For farms in New England, Dump & Go

offers specialized services tailored to agricultural sites. They provide 15- to 20-yard dumpsters designed for farm equipment recycling projects. Their offerings include material transport, hauling, and environmentally responsible disposal, with quick delivery and free quotes. Whether you need a one-time service or ongoing waste removal, they have flexible solutions to meet your needs.

Legal and Regulatory Requirements

Understanding the legal framework surrounding farm equipment recycling isn’t just a matter of good practice - it’s essential for staying compliant and avoiding hefty penalties.

Federal and State Regulations

Recycling farm equipment comes with a web of rules set by federal, state, and local authorities. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) establishes baseline standards, but individual states often introduce stricter guidelines covering permits, storage, handling, and disposal of hazardous materials like chemicals and pesticides. For example, if your equipment contains used oil or pesticide residues, these substances fall under hazardous waste regulations and require careful handling. Farmers are held accountable for hazardous waste from "cradle-to-grave", meaning they bear responsibility from creation to disposal. Between 2008 and 2018, regulatory alerts in the U.S. surged by over 550%, underscoring the importance of staying updated on these evolving requirements.

Safe Disposal of Hazardous Materials

Farm equipment recycling often involves managing hazardous materials like pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, veterinary drugs, contaminated soil, used oil, and cleaning agents. Proper handling is non-negotiable. Start by identifying and labeling hazardous materials using their Safety Data Sheets (SDS), then store them in sealed, original containers in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from incompatible substances. When it comes to transport, follow Department of Transportation (DOT) guidelines carefully. Never dispose of hazardous waste in household trash or down drains - doing so can lead to severe legal repercussions.

A case study from Ireland shows how organized efforts can make a difference. Between 2013 and 2016, 6,807 farmers participated in an EPA initiative, depositing over 800 tons of hazardous waste at 36 collection centers. Programs like this highlight the importance of structured disposal systems. Additionally, maintaining detailed logs of hazardous waste - tracking quantities, disposal dates, and the facilities used - is critical for compliance. These requirements emphasize why working with certified recyclers is not just recommended but essential.

Why You Need Compliant Providers

Selecting recycling providers that adhere to all legal and environmental standards is a must. Non-compliance can result in steep fines, legal battles, and even operational shutdowns. Certified providers safeguard your business while also showcasing your commitment to responsible practices.

Beyond avoiding penalties, partnering with compliant recyclers offers a competitive edge. Consumers increasingly value environmental responsibility, and working with certified services can enhance your reputation. In agriculture, where public perception of environmental care is crucial, staying ahead of regulations through compliant partnerships is a smart move.

To ensure compliance, conduct regular waste audits to pinpoint inefficiencies and verify adherence to regulations. Collaborate with certified waste handlers to streamline your waste management process, and maintain meticulous records, including invoices, permits, and tracking logs, to demonstrate compliance during inspections.

Managing hazardous waste requires more than just proper preparation of equipment - it demands partnerships with certified providers who understand the complexities of the legal landscape. Remember, you are fully accountable for hazardous waste throughout its lifecycle. By choosing compliant recyclers, you protect your business from costly violations while contributing to a cleaner, safer environment.

Pros and Cons of Different Recycling Methods

Selecting a recycling method depends on your budget, operational scale, and environmental objectives. While environmental and regulatory factors are crucial, it's equally important to weigh the practical advantages and challenges of each approach. The method you choose can significantly impact both your expenses and your environmental efforts.

Comparison of Recycling Methods

Here’s a breakdown of different recycling methods to help you decide what fits your farm’s needs:

Method	Cost	Convenience	Environmental Impact	Regulatory Compliance	Best For
On-Site Dismantling	Low transportation costs; potential revenue from salvaged parts	Requires expertise and equipment	Lower emissions; reduced transport needs	Farm responsible for compliance	Large farms with technical expertise
Off-Site Recycling	Transportation costs; potential scrap value	Minimal farm involvement	Increased transport emissions	Shared responsibility with recycler	Most farm sizes; standard equipment
Professional Hauling	Higher service fees; no transport costs	Maximum convenience	Professional route optimization	Full compliance guaranteed	Busy farms; handling hazardous materials

On-site dismantling gives you full control over the recycling process and can save on transportation costs. It’s particularly suitable for larger farms with the necessary tools, space, and expertise to safely dismantle equipment. According to the European Demolition Association

, reusing or recycling materials on-site “saves a lot of associated costs, both economic, time, and environmental”. However, this method requires facilities to clean components and manage issues like noise and dust.

Off-site recycling is the most common choice for farms. It eliminates the need for specialized on-site equipment and expertise, making it a practical option for farms of all sizes. While it involves more coordination and transportation, it frees up valuable space and reduces the farm’s direct involvement in the process.

Professional hauling services, such as those offered by Dump & Go, provide maximum convenience. These services are ideal for farms dealing with hazardous materials or lacking the resources for self-transportation. With advanced route planning to reduce fuel consumption, they ensure compliance but often come with higher costs compared to in-house handling.

How to Choose the Right Method

To determine the best recycling method, consider your farm’s resources and priorities. Large farms with the tools and expertise often find on-site dismantling more efficient. Smaller farms or those with limited resources may benefit more from off-site recycling or professional hauling services.

The type of equipment you’re recycling also plays a role. Simpler machinery, like older tractors or basic implements, may be dismantled on-site if you have the required mechanical know-how. However, complex equipment with hydraulic systems, electronics, or chemical residues often requires professional handling.

Location is another key factor. If your farm is close to certified recycling facilities, self-transportation might be cost-effective. For remote farms, professional hauling services that consolidate multiple pickups could be more practical.

Financial considerations matter too. Recycling old equipment can generate revenue through scrap sales while promoting sustainable practices. However, you’ll need to balance potential scrap value against dismantling and transportation costs to ensure profitability.

Compliance is critical. Certified services simplify the process, while self-managing compliance can be time-consuming and complex.

Finally, assess your available resources. On-site dismantling demands time, tools, and expertise - luxuries that might be scarce during peak farming seasons. Professional hauling services, on the other hand, take care of scheduling, transport, and compliance, allowing you to focus on farming while ensuring responsible recycling.

With agriculture producing between 1.3 to 2.1 billion tons of waste annually worldwide, choosing the right recycling method not only supports global sustainability efforts but also addresses your farm’s specific needs. Striking the right balance between cost, convenience, and environmental responsibility is key to making the best choice.

Conclusion

Recycling farm equipment isn't just about getting rid of old machinery - it’s a responsible step toward reducing agriculture’s impact on the planet. Agriculture contributes to about 26% of global greenhouse gas emissions each year, so how we handle equipment disposal plays a major role in shrinking that footprint.

To start, all hydraulic oils and chemical residues should be removed before disposal. Equipment must also be dismantled carefully, ensuring no organic residues remain, which could lead to contamination. Following these steps not only aligns with regulations but also ensures safer recycling practices.

Choosing the right recycling partner is just as important. Companies like Dump & Go help streamline the process by responsibly recycling metals, reducing the demand for newly mined materials, and handling logistics and transportation. Their services, which include on-site dismantling, can save farmers time and effort.

Regulatory compliance is another critical factor. Proper storage and meticulous record-keeping of waste management activities are essential to avoid pollution and stay within legal boundaries. As Waste Removal USA puts it, "Sustainable waste management represents an environmentally responsible decision and a financially sound approach for farmers because it leads to better profitability while enhancing operational efficiency".

The American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers

has also emphasized the importance of circular systems in agriculture. Farm equipment manufacturers are already reaping benefits by reusing materials like iron, plastics, and tires. This shift supports both economic growth and environmental stewardship, making it clear that old equipment can still serve a purpose.

Sending outdated machinery to scrapyards not only generates income but also reinforces sustainable practices. Plus, keeping waste out of landfills helps reduce methane emissions, a powerful greenhouse gas, contributing directly to efforts against climate change. Recycling farm equipment isn’t just about the environment - it’s a win for farmers’ wallets and the planet.

FAQs

What are the environmental advantages of recycling farm equipment instead of disposing of it in landfills?

Recycling farm equipment offers a range of benefits that go far beyond keeping old machinery out of landfills. By recycling, we cut down on landfill waste, save precious natural resources, and use less energy compared to manufacturing new materials from scratch. Plus, it helps reduce harmful emissions and prevents soil contamination, leading to cleaner air and healthier farmland.

When farmers opt to recycle instead of discarding outdated equipment, they’re embracing environmentally friendly practices. This choice not only reduces pollution but also promotes smarter resource use, paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future in agriculture.

What steps should farmers take to comply with regulations when recycling farm equipment?

Farmers aiming to recycle farm equipment need to adhere to EPA guidelines

, particularly those outlined in the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), which sets the standards for waste management and recycling. It's equally crucial to check state-specific regulations, as these can sometimes impose stricter rules than federal requirements.

Proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials - like oils, batteries, and chemicals - are critical, as these items often fall under additional regulations. Keeping up-to-date with waste and recycling standards not only helps avoid legal issues but also promotes responsible environmental practices.

How can I safely handle and recycle hazardous materials from farm equipment?

To safely handle and recycle hazardous materials from farm equipment, always stick to the manufacturer’s instructions and comply with local regulations for disposing of items like agrichemicals, batteries, and other hazardous waste. This careful approach is essential to avoid contamination and maintain safety.

Ensure your team is trained to recognize potential hazards, properly use personal protective equipment (PPE)

, and understand safety data sheets (SDS) for any materials they work with. For items like batteries or chemical containers, make sure they’re sent to authorized facilities that can handle hazardous materials responsibly. These measures safeguard both the environment and the well-being of your team.