How to Collect Scrap Metal

Here are some tips and ideas on how to collect scrap metal. With few companies hiring and with scrap metal prices again picking up, this is a great time to start your own scrap metal collecting business.

If you are new to collecting scrap metal one of the first things you should do is visit a recycler and find out what they buy and how they want it delivered. Learn how to sort the various grades of copper wire and other common metals of high value. Most recyclers will give you a price list or at least a sheet telling what they will buy (prices fluctuate a lot so price sheets are not that common, at least in my area). By understanding what will be purchased you can know what to look for when collecting.

When you are ready to start collecting scrap metal the two easiest ways to start are collecting from trash on roadsides and collecting on trash pick up day. Collecting trash on roadsides generally means picking up aluminum cans. The two best ways to do this are by walking or riding a bike. Driving even short distances in a car to pick up a few cans will cost you more in gas than you will make on the cans. While out picking up cans keep an eye out for other valuables as well. I've found old car batteries, catalytic converters, and even cash on the side of the road.

Picking through curbside trash is another common way that scrap metal is collected. If you have a truck you can focus on large items that are easy to load and unload. While refrigerators, dryers, and other big appliances don't usually pay a lot per pound they are generally worth being picked up. Aluminum siding, aluminum gutters, copper wire (including in electronics being discarded), and copper pipe are valuable scrap metal that is commonly found in the trash. Keep large containers with you to sort aluminum, copper, and other metals to keep from having to do it later. Make a mental note of homes or neighborhoods with a lot of construction or remodeling and hit these areas often looking for appliances and other scrap metal being discarded.

Whether collecting scrap metal on a roadside or collecting scrap metal from the trash make certain it is legal. Some municipalities have made collecting from recycling containers illegal as they want the metal as well. Generally picking through curbside trash is perfectly legal, but be courteous to homeowners to avoid conflict. Collect in the late evening or early morning before the trash trucks come by but don't be rattling around in people's trash at midnight. And of course, don't rip open bags and leave trash strewn around people's yards.

The most productive place to find scrap metal is construction or demolition sites. If you have a friend in the business (or can make one!) see if you can collect on their work sites.

There are many places to collect scrap metal if you are willing to work at it. Get out there and find out what is most productive in your area, you might be surprised how much money you can make.