Dumpster Diving At Apple Store (2024 Update)

If you’re a professional dumpster diver or looking for dumpster diving at an Apple store, then you have come to the right place.

Whether you’re looking for the legal to dumpster diving at an Apple store or the potential of earning?

In this article, we will dive into the best location of Apple stores for dumpster diving.

Dumpster Diving At Apple Store

The concept of “Dumpster Diving” at an Apple Store might have images of hunting for discarded iPhones or MacBooks, but the reality is far different. 

Stores like Apple follow strict waste management protocols in line with environmental responsibilities and prevent illegal retrieval of sensitive data from discarded devices. 

It’s likely that you’ll find packaging materials rather than high-end devices. 

What’s more, many Apple Stores send their electronic waste to certified recycling facilities where devices are properly dismantled and recycled. 

Therefore, the chances of finding a workable device or valuable components are quite slim.

Is It Illegal To Dumpster Dive At Apple Store?

In the United States, the Supreme Court case of California vs. Greenwood in 1988 established that individuals do not have a reasonable expectation of privacy for discarded items. 

Therefore, dumpster diving itself may not be illegal. However, if a dumpster is on private property, such as the premises of an Apple Store, accessing it could be considered trespassing. 

Apple Inc., known for its emphasis on security and customer privacy, likely disposes of its waste products in a manner that reduces the chance of valuable or sensitive information being exposed. 

However, if the items in a dumpster are considered the property of the waste management company, removing them could potentially be seen as theft.

It is always recommended to check local laws and regulations before engaging in such activities.

Does The Apple Store Throw Away iPhones?

Apple, as a committed advocate for environmental sustainability, has instituted practices to ensure the least amount of waste possible. 

Instead of throwing away iPhones, the company has developed an extensive recycling program. 

According to their Environmental Progress Report, in 2019, Apple refurbished and resold or recycled 7.79 million devices, preventing more than 160,000 metric tons of electronic waste from going to landfills. 

This means Apple does not throw iPhones into dumpsters; they recycle them.

Apple has a trade-in program where you can return your old iPhone in exchange for credit towards a new one. 

If the iPhone is not eligible for credit, Apple will recycle it for free. 

What To Look While Dumpster Diving At The Apple Store?

While dumpster diving at an Apple Store, there are several things to keep in mind to ensure a productive and lawful experience. 

In terms of what to look for, discarded packaging can often yield valuable identifiers such as serial numbers or product codes.

Which can be used to register products for warranty purposes or even to unlock software perks.

However, given the value of Apple products, it’s unlikely to find functional devices. 

Instead, focus on finding components like charging cables, cases, or even broken devices for parts. A cracked iPhone screen, for example, can still have a functional motherboard worth up to $200.

It’s also worth noting that Apple Stores often dispose of marketing materials after promotional periods.

These materials, such as banners or standees, can be collectible or resold to fans. 

Based on anecdotal evidence, dumpster divers have reported finding items valued between $50 to $500 per haul. 

Best Store Locations Where You Can Go For Dumpster Diving

When it comes to the best Apple Store locations for dumpster diving, a few stand out due to their large waste disposal.

Fifth Avenue

It is iconically known for its glass cube entrance; it’s open 24/7 to cater to the city that never sleeps. 

It is the largest Apple Store in the world and was recently redesigned in 2019 to double its size. Which dispose of the large amount of the waste into the dumpsters.

Michigan Avenue

It is situated on the Chicago River and offers stunning riverside views. The store design resembles a MacBook Air from the sky, making it a piece of architectural marvel.

Union Square

Being in Apple’s backyard, this store is known for its regular exclusive events. It’s also home to the largest Genius Bar in the world. 

Due to its exclusive events, they have disposed of the larger wastes in the dumpsters.

The Grove

This store is located in one of LA’s premier shopping destinations, making it incredibly accessible to shoppers.

How Can You Go Dumpster Diving At Apple Store?

While it may sound surprising, dumpster diving at tech stores like Apple can indeed yield valuable finds. 

However, it’s crucial to note that this practice is not without legal and ethical considerations. 

First, you must ensure that dumpster diving is legal in your jurisdiction. In many areas, once items are discarded, they’re considered public property. 

Yet, in others, dumpster diving could be classified as trespassing or theft. Suppose you’ve confirmed its legality and decided to proceed. 

In that case, you should know that Apple stores typically house their dumpsters in secured areas, making dumpster diving there more challenging than at other locations.

 For the most part, you’re likely to find packaging material, damaged items, or even old display units.

To increase your chances of finding valuable items, aim to dive shortly after a new product release when stores are likely to discard older models.

However, remember that Apple is known for its eco-friendly policies, including a robust recycling program. 

Therefore, most discarded items are likely to be broken beyond repair.

So, if you are planning to dumpster diving in Maine , Guitar Center, Target, or Nebraska; first you should check the state laws before going to your hunt.

How Much Can You Make From Dumpster Diving At Apple Store?

While dumpster diving can occasionally yield valuable finds, it’s important to consider legality, ethics, and potential earnings. 

Data on earnings from dumpster diving, especially specific to Apple Stores, is sparse. 

However, let’s consider a hypothetical situation. If you were fortunate enough to find a discarded iPhone in good condition, you could potentially sell it for up to $600. 

Yet, instances like these are extremely rare. Most discarded items from Apple Stores are damaged goods or obsolete accessories with little to no resale value. 

Furthermore, Apple, like many companies, has strict waste management policies, meaning valuable items are unlikely to end up in the trash.