If you have a lot of scrap metal in your home or business, you can make some extra money by selling it to a scrap metal recycling facility.
Aside from putting more cash in your pocket, you will also be helping the environment. Scrap metal recycling uses less energy and generates fewer greenhouse emissions than primary metal production. As a result, it helps preserve natural resources and reduce pollution.
To help maximise the benefits of scrap metal recycling, here are some things you should know before selling your scrap metal to a recycling facility.
Sort your waste whenever possible
Not all metals are created equal, so you should sort your scrap metal before sending it out for recycling. Generally, all metals fall into two main categories: ferrous and non-ferrous. You can separate the two using a magnet. The magnet will attract ferrous metals, such as pure iron and steel. On the other hand, non-ferrous ones will remain unaffected by it.
Although sorting your scrap metal into ferrous and non-ferrous heaps will take time, it can help to maximise your returns. If you send mixed scrap metal to recycling operations, you may be paid a flat rate for the scrap, regardless of its composition.
Check for minimum weight requirements on scrap metal purchases
Some scrap metal recyclers may require you to bring in your scrap metal only if you have accumulated enough to meet their minimum weight requirements. Having minimums allows them to rationalise their recycling operations to avoid losing money.
The more scrap metal they receive, the easier it will be to meet operating costs and make money on their operations.
Research scrap metal prices
Scrap metal prices may vary depending on where you sell your scrap metal. Before taking your scrap metal to a recycling facility, check their pay rates. Most recyclers pay based on the weight of your scrap metal. Others may consider the specific types of metals you have. If you separate your waste ahead of time, the work may pay off handsomely.
Find out what materials your recycling operations will not accept
Scrap metal recyclers may refuse to take non-recyclable metals, metals that require extra steps to recycle or those that are too dangerous to handle. Check with your preferred scrap metal recycler first if ever in doubt about whether or not to bring specific items to them.
Contact a scrap metal recycler near you for more information about metal recycling.
Share7 September 2022
Hi, my name is Christine. About a year ago, I left the city and moved to a remote corner of Australia. I noticed that while surrounded by natural beauty and peace, I was missing several amenities, and one of these was access to recycling. As a result, I started figuring out ways to expand recycling in remote areas. I also started researching how to advocate for bringing it to these areas and educating citizens about the importance of how it helps. If you want to learn about recycling, what it does, and why it can be hard to find in some areas, you need to explore my blog. Enjoy reading!
