There is not a day that goes by when you do not rely on metal of some sort; everything from aluminum foil to metal clothes hangers. The great thing about much of the metal we take for granted in our lives is that it can be recycled. Many progressive towns and cities are offering curb-side scrap metal pick up for such things as aluminum and steel cans while other metals can be taken directly to a local scrap yard and turned into cash.
What metals will a scrap metal dealer accept?
The most common metals are those that all scrap dealers accept; these metals include steel, iron, aluminum, brass, stainless steel and copper. Although these are the common materials the scrap dealer may also accept others if there is a current demand. It is always a good idea to call ahead if you have material that is not considered common.
How to determine what scrap you have:
Scrap metal collectors know the secret lies in having a magnet. If the magnet is attracted to the metal it is ferrous, which is either iron or steel but not stainless. Iron and steel are worth less at the scrap dealers than other materials but they will certainly accept it for recycling.
If the magnet is not attracted to the material you have then it is non-ferrous, this includes copper, brass, aluminum and stainless steel. These metals are quite valuable and bring a good price.
Determining the value of scrap metal:
There are numerous web sites that give the approximate value of scrap metal but it is always best to contact the dealer.
How much scrap is needed before the yard will accept it?
Scrap yards don’t have a minimum set on the quantity that they accept however, scrap metal pickup is only available to high volume customers. As scrap is paid for by weight it is always a good idea to stockpile it and take it in when there is enough volume to warrant the trip. Visit H&C Metals, Inc.
