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Jun 27

What You Should Know Before Selling Scrap Metal

There’s no doubt that scrap metal recycling is a great way to make some extra cash. In addition, it’s good for the environment, as it reduces landfill waste and conserves natural resources. If you have tons of scrap metal sitting on your property, it’s time you turned that clutter into value by selling it to nearby scrap metal buyers. However, it’s important to know the basics before you get started.

In this article, Just Scrap It walks you through what you should know before selling scrap metal. As a reputable scrap metal company, we know the ins and outs of the recycling process, how pricing works, and what buyers look for when purchasing scrap metal. The information we’ll provide in this article will help you get the most value from your materials, avoid common mistakes, and understand how to prepare your scrap for sale.

Know the Types of Scrap Metal

There are two main categories of scrap metal: ferrous and non-ferrous. Ferrous metals contain iron and are magnetic. Non-ferrous metals, such as copper, aluminum, brass, and stainless steel, do not contain iron and fetch higher prices.

Copper is one of the most valuable scrap metals and comes in different grades, with clean copper wire often paying the most. Aluminum is lightweight and common, found in siding, window frames, and soda cans. Brass, a yellowish metal made from copper and zinc, is also in demand.

Learn How to Sort and Prepare Your Scrap

Scrap metal buyers in Plant City pay more when the metal is clean and sorted. Remove non-metal parts like plastic, rubber, or insulation, and separate different types of metal into distinct piles. If you mix metals, expect a lower payout, as the yard will have to sort it themselves.

Investing a little time in preparation can make a difference in your earnings. For example, stripping insulation from copper wire or removing steel screws from aluminum pieces helps increase the value.

Understand Scrap Metal Prices

Prices for scrap metal fluctuate based on market demand, global commodity prices, and local conditions. Non-ferrous metals like copper and brass tend to have more stable and higher prices compared to ferrous metals. Check with your local scrap metal company for updated pricing before making a trip. Knowing what your metal is worth helps you make informed decisions and prevents underpayment.

Know What Scrap Yards Accept

Not every scrap yard takes the same materials, so it’s important to check what types of metal are accepted. While most facilities take common metals like aluminum, copper, and steel, some may also buy items like car batteries, catalytic converters, and electric motors. Others might decline certain materials due to hazardous content or low value.

At Just Scrap It, we accept a wide variety of ferrous and non-ferrous materials, and we’re happy to answer any questions about what we take.

Bring Valid Identification

In many states, selling scrap metal requires a valid government-issued ID. This is part of regulatory efforts to combat metal theft. Be sure to bring identification with you when visiting a scrap metal recycling facility; it’s a quick step that makes the entire process smoother.

Choose a Trusted Scrap Metal Buyer

Perhaps the most important thing to know is where you sell your scrap metal. A reputable scrap yard like Just Scrap It will offer competitive pricing, transparent weighing practices, and friendly customer service. We make it easy to recycle your scrap with convenient scheduling, prompt pickups, and fast payment.

Why Choose Just Scrap It for Scrap Metal Recycling

Just Scrap It is a top-rated scrap metal company that offers top dollar for both ferrous and non-ferrous scrap metal. If you’re looking to sell your scrap metal to a reliable buyer, we are the experts you can trust. Our scheduling and pickup processes are designed to be convenient and easy in order to save you time and eliminate the hassle of transporting heavy or bulky materials. Contact us today to learn more about the services we offer.

What Our Clients Say

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Juan Martinez
Kissimmee, FL

The people were nice and I was able to sell my scrap metal quickly.

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Mercedes Porsche
Zephyrhills, FL

Whenever I have metal to get rid of, this is the place to bring it. They are fast and friendly.

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Walley Tice
Seffner, FL

I'm thankful for Scrap It. They are great to work with. Friendly and helpful. Thanks

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Landon Bradley
Tampa, FL

Great service. Very friendly. Highly recommended this scrap yard. Ur very welcome and thanks again.