Ways to Make More Money On Your Scrap Metal

Scrap metal can be found in several items, from appliances to electronics. Before throwing out, dumping or recycling certain items, consider that there might be some more value in them. Scrap metal can provide you with a few extra dollars. Not all scrap metals are created equal or garner the same amount of money when selling. Some scrap metals are more valuable than others. If you’re interested in making a good chunk of change from selling your scrap metal, here are a few tips that you could find useful in the process.

Separate the Scrap Metal

Don’t be too hasty to get rid of your scrap metals without first separating them. Don’t dump your copper, brass, aluminium and iron all in one bin to be sold. The downside of doing that is you run the risk of only getting paid for the aluminium and not for any of the other metals. This is a sure way to lose money. Take the time to sort your metals, either using boxes, bags or bins. Even if you are unsure of the type of metals that you have, don’t get sloppy. Use online resources to locate a guide showing photos and descriptions of common scrap metals, or at least sort according to what looks similar. Label your containers before leaving, which will help you save time unloading and weighing at the scrap yard.

Use a Magnet

Non-ferrous metals, like copper, aluminium and brass are more valuable and will earn you more cash than ferrous metals like steel and cast iron. Using a magnet is one of the simplest and easiest ways to separate different metals and alloys based on the elements contained within them. A magnet will stick to metals containing iron, while other metals lacking iron will not. Being able to use a magnet to identify your metals by type will save you time and earn you more money.

Negotiate

It is typically possible to negotiate scrap metal price with a scrap yard owner or manager. You may find that you have more negotiating power based on the quantity and quality of your scrap metal. Most scrap yards are generally more interested in the number of metals that you are selling, and it’s advantageous to sell in bulk since you can make more money that way. It’s good to build a relationship with a scrap yard owner and establish yourself as a valued customer.

You don’t have to sell yourself short when trying to get some cash for your scrap metal. Separating your metals before heading to the scrap yard. A magnet is a good tool to use to identify your ferrous metals from your non-ferrous metals. Never forget the power of negotiating. Consider all these things when selling your scrap metals and you could make more money than you expected. For your scrap metal needs, Allied Recycling Center can help you to get your money’s worth by offering the best return on your scrap metals. If you have questions on scrap metal, feel free to call us at  508-668-8699 or contact us.