Tips for A Speedy Return
Make sure your containers are deposit-bearing because some containers are not eligible for a refund. If you are unsure about a certain container, you can still bring it to the redemption centre – staff will let you know if it is eligible or not for a refund.
Confirm hours of operation before visiting. Hours vary by redemption centre, and many may be closed or operating with reduced hours during holidays and long weekends. Please check our redemption centre listings for scheduled hours and call ahead before visiting around statutory holidays.
You can pre-sort and count containers at home. While staff at the redemption centre will do this for you, having your containers organized by type (i.e. glass, metal, plastic, carton, etc.) will make getting your refund a lot quicker.
Reduce Waste
When returning your empties, following these simple tips will help ensure you receive your full deposit refund, reduce waste, prevent contamination, and support proper recycling.
Leave caps on
Caps and other closures are part of the container and are recyclable.
No liquids or debris
Prevent contamination of other recyclables.
Push straws in
Attached straws are part of the container and are recyclable.
No broken glass
Contribute to safe handling at redemption centres.
Stack beer bottles in their case
Prevent glass breakage while returning recyclable packaging.
Do not flatten cans
Labels must be visible for a deposit refund.
Leave wine bladders in
Wine bladders are part of the container and are recyclable.
Do not remove labels
Labels identify which products are eligible for a deposit refund.
Choose reusable bins or bags to collect and return your empty beverage containers
No reusable options? Opt for clear plastic bags.
Download and print our Reduce Waste poster to remember all these tips.
Make sure to only return containers for beverages purchased in New Brunswick
When you purchase a deposit-bearing beverage in New Brunswick, the deposit you pay is refunded when you return the container for recycling at any of the province’s redemption centre locations.
Deposits on beverages bought outside of New Brunswick go to the recycling programs of their respective province or state, not New Brunswick’s. As our program does not receive these funds, we are unable to refund deposits on containers purchased elsewhere.
Redemption centres in New Brunswick thus have the right to refuse refunds for containers brought in from neighbouring regions, including Quebec, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Maine. Visitors to New Brunswick may be refused refunds on all or certain beverage container products or asked to provide proof of purchase.
Donations & Bottle Drives
Many redemption centres work with charities and organizations to receive donations and bottle drives. If you are interested in donating your containers or setting up a bottle drive, please contact your local redemption centre.