How to Make the Most Money on Scrap Metal
Even in an ever-fluctuating economy, there will always be demand for scrap metal. So, trading in scrap is a great way to make some extra cash on the side. Not only is it good for the bank balance, it’s also beneficial for the environment as well. So whether you’re a tradesman looking to maximise the return you get on scrap, or an individual looking to make some extra cash, this post will give you our top tips for making the most money on scrap metal.

1. Organize Your Scrap Metal
Although it’s easier to collect mixed scrap and bring it to a scrap depot in a large container, this isn’t the best way to make money on your scrap metal.
When you bring a mixed container of scrap metal, you’ll likely get quoted a price based on the average metal scrap you have. However, you might also get a price based on the cheapest, which would be even less.
By organizing your scrap into different types, you’ll get quoted for each category. Meaning you’ll get the best price for each type.
If you’re confused about which metal is which, there are online forums where people will help you identify the metals you have.
Once you have each metal organised, put each type of metal into different containers to make sorting it at your scrap yard quick and easy.
2. Clean Your Scrap Metal
As well as organising your scrap metal, it’s also important to separate any metals that are joined together. This is referred to as “clean” scrap, and will fetch a higher price than “unclean” (which is different types of metals that are still conjoined).
You get more money for clean scrap because it’s less work for the scrap yard to separate it themselves.
As well as separating mixed metal, make sure to strip any wiring and break apart appliances into their components. This may seem like a lot of work and your metal may feel like it gets lighter in weight, but it is the best way to get top dollar at the scrap yard.
3. Store Your Scrap Metal
Scrap metal is valued by its weight. Therefore, the more you have, the more money you’ll get. It may be tempting to go to your scrap yard as soon as you have a small pile of scrap, but you’re better off waiting until you have a larger load to recycle. This will also help you save on delivery trips, thereby reducing the amount of fuel you use.
Remember, the price of scrap is always fluctuating. By holding onto your scrap and building up a larger stockpile, you’ll also be able to keep an eye on scrap metal prices and time your visit to your scrap yard accordingly.
Visit Geo. E. Richardson Metal Recycling
We have depots in Burgess Hill and Brighton and we can recycle both ferrous and non-ferrous metals. If you’re unsure how much you’ll get for your scrap or what you can bring, give our team a call today. We’ll let you know what we can accept and give you a great price for your scrap.