If you’ve never sold scrap metal before, you might be unsure of how to start. Here are some popular tools and tricks that can help you earn money by selling scrap metal.
Magnets are useful for a variety of purposes
Some scrap yards will accept ferrous metals and non-ferrous, but the latter, which includes metals like copper, aluminum, and stainless steel, are more valuable and will bring you more money at the scrap yard. Magnets can be used to determine the type of metal.
If your magnet sticks, you have ferrous metals such as iron or steel.
If your magnet doesn’t stick, you may have non-ferrous scrap metal that can be sold to scrap metal buyers for a lot of money.
Safety equipment is essential
When collecting scrap metal, it is important to be cautious. This is especially true if the metal has rusted or aged. Wear clothing that is thick enough to cover your skin, as well as work boots, goggles, and thick gloves, when you are collecting scrap metal.
The true colour of the metal can be revealed by a metal file
It is useful to know the type of metal that you are dealing with, as some metals have a higher value than others. You can determine the metal type by using a metal filing to remove any coatings or wires. Metal files can be used to reveal the original color of copper or brass pipes that have been tarnished. Brass pipes are yellowish and copper is reddish.
All that shines is not gold
Prices for scrap metal vary depending on the material and location. Scrap metal can also be graded based on the type of metal and condition. You may find it difficult to accurately estimate the value of metals if you don’t keep a constant pulse on the metal market. You can use sites such as Kitco to find out current market prices. Copper, aluminium and brass are the most valuable scrap metals.
Click here for basic information
When you are first starting out in scrapping metal, it is very helpful to have a basic understanding of the different types of metals. Online guides on metal types are available, such as eBay’s guide to different types of metals and alloys. These give you an overview of a variety of metals.
You may be sitting on gold!
You may have scrap metal lying around if you rent or own a large home/business. Contact our team or consult our blog to find out which items are great scrap metal sources.
