6 Things You Need To Know Before You Start Collecting Scrap Metal

Metal is endlessly recyclable. It can be melted down and turned into something new many, many times. Today's skyscraper may be yesterday's pots and pans. But that metal doesn't just walk into a recycling center, it needs some help in the shape of scrap collectors.

If you want to start collecting scrap metal for recycling and extra money, you should make sure that you know a few things before you get started.

You need to know the laws surrounding scrap metal in California. You don't want to violate a law, even accidentally. Those laws include things like showing your ID when you sell the scrap, as well as being willing to have your picture taken. You may also have to prove you purchased the items you want to sell as scrap, such as beer kegs and other similar items.

Another thing that you are going to want to know is what the different metals are. You don't want to take a load of mixed metals in because the buyer is going to have to sort out all that mess before they can pay you for it. If you have learned how to tell the difference between metals, you can separate them out and sell them separately. That will make it easier for you and the buyer.

Metal prices can vary depending on a lot of things. Because of that, you are going to want to keep track of the current market values. You want to be able to get the most money for your hard work, so just checking the market value daily will help you. You can also contact buyers before you go in to recycle your metal to see who is offering the best price. They may have that on their website, making it easy for you to check.

If you want to collect scrap metal, you need to know the best place to find it. That include demolition sites, construction sites, and even yard sales. You may want to spend a day or two every couple weeks to scout out locations where you might want to gather scrap in the coming weeks. While you are scouting, you can also talk to the various contractors and homeowners to establish a connection with them.

Trespassing laws can be different from the laws surrounding scrap metals. Trespassing would include going places where you have been told to stay away from as well as places that are posted with private property and keep out signs. If you get arrested while you are collecting scrap metal, it may give you a bad reputation that could make it harder for you to work with other sources of scrap metal.

Going and collecting scrap metal is a good way to get money. It can also be a little dangerous. You are dealing with rusty metals, sharp edges, possibly toxic substances, and even things like electricity. You will need to have a good idea as to how to handle those things safely. That includes making sure that you are wearing safety gear like gloves, goggles, and work boots. Safety is important.

If you need extra cash or want to recycle metal, collecting scrap metal is a good way to do that. When you collect scrap metal, bring it to us at Bruce Metal & Salvage. We can help you with the metal that you have collected. We can also drop off and pick up collection containers to your location to make the process of collecting all that scrap easier and more convenient for you.