Do you want to make some extra money by recycling scrap metal? If so, then you’ve come to the right place! This ultimate guide will teach you all about the ins and outs of scrap metal recycling. We’ll cover everything from where to find scrap metal buyers, how much recyclers pay for different types of metals, safety tips for handling hazardous materials, and more. So, if you’re ready to learn about one of the most lucrative ways to make money on the side, keep reading!

Call 1-888-586-5322 for Scrap Metal Recycling in Indianapolis Indiana

Scrap Metal Recycling Guide for Beginners

Find a Trusted Scrap Metal Recycler

First things first, you’ll need to find a scrap metal buyer in your area. Look online for local scrap yards or recycling centers and contact them directly to ask about their services. Most recyclers will be able to provide you with an estimate of what they would pay for your scrap metal, so make sure to get a few quotes from different buyers before making your decision.

Sort Your Scrap Metal

Once you’ve settled on a buyer, it’s time to start collecting and preparing your scrap metal for pickup. Different types of metals have different prices at the recycler, so separate out any ferrous and non-ferrous metals that you come across. Ferrous metals are magnetic (such as steel), while non-ferrous metals are not (such as copper). Make sure to also check for any hazardous materials, such as old batteries, which require special handling and disposal.

Transport Your Scrap for Evaluation

When transporting scrap metal to the recycler, it’s important to keep safety in mind. Wear protective clothing such as gloves and a face mask, and never try to lift more than you can safely manage. Make sure that all sharp edges are either taped over or protected somehow, and always make sure your load is secure before driving off.

Produce Proof of Ownership for Your Scrap

At the recycling center, be prepared to show proof of identity so they know you’re legally allowed to sell scrap metal. Have your license or another form of identification ready when you arrive so that the process goes smoothly. After you’ve been weighed and paid, all that’s left is to collect your money and head home!

Make Fast Cash With Metal Recycling

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to make money recycling scrap metal with minimal effort. Once you’ve been paid, be sure to keep track of your earnings for tax purposes. With determination, you can easily turn metal scrap recycling into a lucrative business!

Current Prices for Scrap Metal

Now is the ideal time to sell your scrap metal, as prices are at an all-time high! Steel and other metals have seen a tremendous rise in demand, while aluminum has also skyrocketed due to tariffs. Ferrous metals such as steel and iron are currently going for $0.06 to $0.08 per pound. Non-ferrous metals such as aluminum, copper, and brass are currently going for $0.30 to $0.50 per pound. Stainless steel is currently going for $0.22 to $0.28 per pound. This changes more frequently than other grades of steel.

The current price of scrap copper varies depending on its grade or quality, with higher grades fetching higher prices than lower grades. For example, insulated wire can be sold at up to $3 per pound while bare bright wire can go for up to $4 per pound. Copper tubing sells for around $2 per pound while brass valves sell for around $1 per pound.

Are you looking for a Central Indiana scrap metal recycling center that pays cash on the spot? Just contact Garden City Iron & Metal at 1-888-586-5322 for professional, EPA-regulated scrap metal recycling services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Not only do we pay cash on the spot for all grades of scrap metal, but we pay out the highest offers around. Check back for new blogs each month!