If you’re looking for a way to make extra money, consider collecting scrap metal for recycling. This can actually be a lucrative endeavor, if you put in the effort required to make a successful haul. Following these suggestions can get you well on your way to building a successful scrap metal recycling side project.

Scrap Metal Collecting Step By Step

The first thing you will want to do is figure out how you will transport your load. The more you can transport in one trip, the more money you’ll make. For that reason, it’s best to make use of a pick-up truck, if possible. You can load up the back with a big haul and make fewer trips, limiting what you’ll spend on fuel and on the wear and tear of the vehicle.

Most metals are recyclable, but some metals have a greater value than others. For instance, alloys like brass can earn you a much better price. Brass, in particular, is widely used, so you can expect to receive $1 to $2 per pound for this alloy. Copper can make you twice as much, since it has more uses.

Next, you’ll have to find a buyer. This is easier with the internet. Search Google for “scrap yard” or “metals recycler” to find a suitable buyer. Once you get there, you’ll be expected to weigh your load of scrap metals. You’ll weigh in on the way in and on the way out. This will give you the weight of your load, which is how you’ll be paid. Since you’ll be paid for the bulk weight, it’s important to bring just one type of metal per trip to your scrap metal Cincinnati OH buyer.

The buyer, whether a recycling facility or a traditional scrap yard, is required by law to register you as a seller. This protects against people trying to sell stolen scrap metals. It also helps keep a record of transactions and ensures you’re being paid a fair price.

Things to Know About Recycling

There’s a little more involved in scrap metal recycling than just loading up your truck with product. For instance, metal is rarely found uncontaminated by other materials. Manufacturing processes put metals together with wood, plastic, and other substances. The general rule for these items is that it’s acceptable if the item is at least 50% metal. As long as it’s mostly made out of metal, the item can be submitted for recycling.
Conversely, you may come across objects that have just small amounts of metal. If the metal can be easily removed, you can separate it from the rest of the object. Once separated, the metal component can be sold for recycling.

Since metal is a scarce resource, we have to conserve it as much as possible. This is why it’s possible to earn such a good price on the more commonly used metals. In addition to earning extra income, you’re helping to conserve our resources and eliminate waste. Scrap metal recycling is a profitable way to help the planet.