The first tip (and one of the most important) in scrap metal collection is to consider where you’re searching for scrap metal.
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A lot of common household items have precious recyclable metals in them – from pressure cookers, to electrical wires and pipe fittings, to light strips and more.
You’d be surprised at how much more you can get by sending them to your local scrap yard instead of reselling them. Just look hard and you’ll find them.
Old or broken appliances, in particular, are an excellent source of recyclable metals. Air conditioners, dishwashers, freezers, and washing machines have them in spades. Other home appliances may look plain broken on the outside but their unseen parts can contain expensive materials. Disassemble them first before handing them over.
After rummaging through your home, you may have a tough time finding other pieces of scrap. Such is often the case when you’re starting out. To make sure you have a steady supply of recyclable metal, check out these locations in your community.
Apartment buildings can be a consistent source of scrap metal. Grab a map of your community, find these locations, and approach the maintenance officer in charge. Ask them to let you know if they need to dispose of any metal trash, and be sure to leave a business card.
Businesses, regardless of the size, will throw away valuable materials at one point. A retailer might get rid of damaged shopping carts. Offices may upgrade their PCs. When that happens, you want them (or the facility or office manager) to call you to move the trash.
Scrapping from a construction site can prove to be very profitable. Know that you need permission from the contractor before getting started. Some construction companies sell their scrap themselves, and you don’t want them accusing you of theft.
While these shops may not turn over all of their scrap to you, the dumpsters nearby can have auto parts full of recyclable metal. Some dumpster owners may not appreciate you going through their junk, while others won’t mind. Again, be sure to ask for permission.
Scrap collecting can be a lucrative side-project that carries the added benefit of helping the environment. But if you have never found, processed, and recycled scrap metal before, you may not know where to begin. Scrap collecting is a safe hobby for the prepared, and it doesn't need to be difficult. With the right equipment, you can improve your profit margins, save time, and work with metals responsibly.
Magnets
Ferrous metals contain iron, typically as a steel alloy. Iron is abundant, but that also makes it cheap. As a result, many scrappers instead pursue non-ferrous metals, which include copper, aluminum, brass, zinc, and precious metals. A magnet is your quickest way to distinguish between these two types of metals. If the magnet doesn't stick, you know you are probably looking at a more valuable material.
Metal Files
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Metal often hides beneath a protective or decorative coating, such as paint or rubber. This is especially common for ferrous metals prone to rusting. Carrying a metal file provides a quick and easy way to scratch through surfaces and get to the metal below. You can then identify it by sight or use the magnet trick to determine its nature.
Hand Tools
You don't want to work metal with your bare hands, even if you mostly deal with fine electronics. Wires need to be cut, bolts need to be removed, and sometimes whole parts need to be knocked out of the way. A basic household toolkit containing a hammer, screwdriver, pliers, adjustable wrench, and pocket knife always comes in handy while collecting scrap metal.
Power Tools
Ferrous metals, in particular, are typically handled in bulk, requiring power tools to break apart and pack efficiently. In other cases, you may be able to sell non-ferrous metals for a higher price by first removing any other attached materials. Radiators, for example, are worth more without their steel or plastic end-pieces. Using a reciprocating saw to trim those excess parts can quickly increase the recycling value of many items.
Safety Gear
As you might expect from any work involving power tools, collecting scrap metal is not without its risks. Always bring basic safety equipment like gloves, goggles, work boots, and a first aid kit with you as you collect scrap. Be mindful of your surroundings, especially when electricity is a factor, and never try to use a tool you aren't proficient with. By knowing your limits and wearing protective gear, you can protect your eyes and fingers from accidents.
Transportation
Most regular scrap collectors need some form of wheeled transportation. The size of your car or truck should reflect the volume of metal you're working with. Hobbyists can get away with, but if you make recycling your business, you will need the power to carry hundreds if not thousands of pounds at a time. In general, it's best to start with a light, used pickup truck you don't mind scratching or denting.
Similarly, always head to a site with a way to get the metal to your truck. Scrap collectors who target high-value non-ferrous metals may be able to fit their haul in a small backpack. If, on the other hand, you are out collecting cans, you may do better with buckets. Hand trucks, ratchet straps, and a portable saw can all make moving metals a much simpler task.
Tools for Your Specialties
Over time, you will likely find a few scrap metal niches that make up the bulk of your recycling. Some collectors pick up old and unwanted electronics, while others dismantle old car parts or appliances. You might end up investing in a heavy-duty reciprocating saw or durable wire-strippers. However you contribute to metal recycling, you will gradually accumulate the right set of tools for your specific trade.
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