Dumpster Diving at Amazon Warehouse (Ultimate Guide)

Hi there, I’m your guide into a world you might not even know exists—right here in a humble Amazon warehouse. 

You wouldn’t believe that a whopping 30% of the goods returned to Amazon each year end up in the dumpster. 

Yes, you heard it right, a full third of those returns don’t get resold. That’s where I, and others like me, step in to rescue perfectly good items from ending up in landfill. 

It’s a thrill, a challenge, and a statement against waste all rolled into one. In this article we’ll delve into the exciting world of dumpster diving at Amazon warehouses.

Let’s begin!

Dumpster Diving at Amazon Warehouse

Amazon is a multinational technology company, operates numerous warehouses, known as Fulfillment Centers, throughout the USA. 

These facilities, which number over 175, facilitate the storage, sorting, and shipping of products sold on Amazon’s platform. 

However, it is important to note that Amazon enforces strict regulations regarding waste disposal and security measures to protect the undelivered items.

Hence, these facilities are often inaccessible to the public, making dumpster diving not only illegal but also highly challenging. 

Furthermore, the earning potential of dumpster diving can be unpredictable and unreliable due to the nature of discarded items; damaged, returned or unsold stock.

Is Dumpster Diving Legal at Amazon Warehouse

Dumpster diving at Amazon Warehouse isn’t legal. Simply put, Amazon doesn’t permit anyone to dumpster dive on their premises. 

If you’re caught, you’ll be told to leave and could be barred from coming back. More importantly, Amazon Warehouses are private property. 

This means you could potentially face trespassing charges if you’re caught dumpster diving there. 

So, while it may seem tempting to explore what’s been tossed, it’s better to stay on the safe side and steer clear of dumpster diving at Amazon Warehouses.

As you know public property is typically accessible to everyone, and dumpster diving in such spaces may be permissible.

On the other hand, private property, including businesses like Amazon, often have specific rules and restrictions on such activities. 

Amazon warehouses, for instance, are considered private property. 

Therefore, dumpster diving at these locations without explicit permission could potentially be seen as trespassing, which is a legal offense.

Is Dumpster Diving Illegal at Amazon Warehouse in Night

Dumpster diving at an Amazon warehouse, or any private property, especially at night, is generally considered illegal. 

It can be viewed as trespassing, which is against the law. It’s best to refrain from such activities to avoid legal consequences.

Best Time for Dumpster Diving at Amzon Warehouse

The optimal time for dumpster diving at Amazon warehouses typically falls in the late evening hours, after daily operations have concluded.

This is because Amazon’s warehouses typically operate 24/7, with peak delivery times occurring during the daytime. 

By late evening, unwanted items or damaged goods are likely to have been discarded. This typically falls between 9 PM to midnight. 

However, remember that dumpster diving laws vary by location, and it might be illegal in your area. 

Does Amazon Throw Away Returns

Amazon has a comprehensive system for managing returns, dispelling the misconception that all returned items are discarded.

Based on the condition and category of the product, it might be resold, donated, liquidated, recycled, or, in some cases, discarded. 

For example, a report from the Environmental Investigation Agency states that in the UK alone, Amazon recycled approximately 130,000 tons of electronic waste in 2019. 

While it’s unfortunate some items do end up in landfill due to logistical or safety reasons.

What to Pick from Amazon Warehouse Dumpster Diving

The Amazon warehouse deals with an immense volume of products, meaning that even items which are discarded might have a surprising amount of value. 

For example, electronics, books, and furniture tend to be high-yielding finds. 

It’s not uncommon to chance upon a discarded book worth $15 or a piece of furniture that retails for $80. 

For instance, in 2018, it was reported that a man found a fully functional iPhone X in a dumpster which had a market value of around $999.

Here is list of items you can pick:

• Furniture
• Electronics
• Gadgets
• Tech accessories
• Cosmetics
• Clothes and merchandise

How much can I earn from Amazon warehouse dumpster diving?

Earnings from Amazon warehouse diving vary greatly based on several factors, such as the item’s condition, their demand, and the seller’s ability to market them effectively. 

Some dumpster divers have reported weekly earnings of up to $250, with the potential for more during high-demand periods like the holidays. 

On the higher end, individuals who invest significant time and effort into restoration and sales might earn up to $1,000 or more per month. 

However, it’s important to note that these figures are based on anecdotal reports and actual earnings can fluctuate. 

Tips for Dumpster Diving at Amazon

Here are a few tips to make your dumpster diving more successful:

1. In some areas, dumpster diving is illegal. So, you should check with local laws before you start.

2. You should wear protective gear, such as gloves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Never dig through items that could be hazardous.

3. Most Amazon facilities empty their dumpsters in the early morning. Try to get there right after they empty the facilities to get the best finds.

4. If you see a “No Trespassing” sign, you should respect it and move on to the next place.

5. Leave the area cleaner than you found it. This will help you stay in the good graces of the community and help you to continue dumpster diving in the future.

So, if you are planning to dumpster dive at Hawaii, TJ Maxx, Five Below, or PetSmart; first you should check the state laws before going to your hunt.

Amazon dumpster diving near me

Amazon, operates numerous warehouses across the United States, including but not limited to, states like Texas, California, Florida, New York, and Washington.

In order to find your nearest warehouse you should consider exploring the official Amazon FBA help article.