Scrap for Cash

Not to be redundant, but the scrap metal recycling industry has been in a boon period for quite some time now. Especially here in the South East Arizona area, or specifically Tucson Arizona specifically. We thought we would review what it takes to scrap for cash as a business or even a profitable hobby.

1. Learn the differences between the different types of metals that are purchased. The main thing you should know is the difference between ferrous metals and non ferrous metals. When you find your metals it may be best to separate your ferrous (magnetic) from your non ferrous metals. this will keep things organized when you come to the yard to sell your scrap.

2. Not all metals are the same in pricing. Just as metals are not the same when it comes to their makeup and/or their strength, they are only as valuable as the current market prices for theses products. The easiest way to know, is follow step number 1, then follow up with a phone call to one of the local scrap metal yards like Tucson Iron& Metal and find their current prices and their system for purchasing your scrap.

3. Hone your mechanical skills and get some tools. That may sound strange for just scrapping metals that are abandoned, but trust us. You’ll earn far more by breaking down appliances and other motorized parts for their different scrap components as opposed to getting paid for half your scrap because the yard you use doesn’t accept all forms of metal. Or they require a separation of metals prior to delivery. Metal snips, hammers and metal saws will help to separate all of your metals.

4. Make sure you own or operate a proper vehicle for scrapping. Yes a trunk will work fine for smaller hauls, trust us, there will be finds and halls that will need a truck or possibly even a trailer for hauling to the yard. If possible a full sized truck is your best start.

5. Finally, this is a two part… keep apprised of prices on metals. We say this so that when you come to sell your scrap there are no surprises on either side of the scale. Also there will be times when someone may want you to pay them for that old tractor that has sat in the yard for 20 years, is it worth it. The only way to know that is to know current metal prices that you will be paid.