Welcome to the world of scrap metal recycling! Did you know that recycling metal is not just good for the planet, but it’s also a smart way to earn extra cash? With so many different types of metal, it can be difficult to tell what can be recycled.
We will guide you through the benefits of recycling scrap metal, identifying scrap metal types, understanding how much you can earn from recycling, and finding the best places to recycle your scrap metal.
Scrap Metal Recycling Guide
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Environmental Benefits of Scrap Metal Recycling
Recycling scrap metal isn’t just a way to make an extra buck – it has many environmental benefits too! Recycling metal significantly reduces carbon footprint by lessening the need for mining and processing raw materials, which are energy-intensive processes that emit large amounts of greenhouse gases.
By reusing existing metals, we can cut down on these emissions, contributing to a cleaner atmosphere. Metals like aluminum and steel can also be recycled almost indefinitely, reducing the strain on natural metal reserves.
This approach also minimizes landfill waste. Metals in landfills can take centuries to decompose, causing environmental harm. Recycling diverts these materials from landfills, ensuring they are repurposed efficiently.
Be Eco-Friendly: You can be green by working with an environmentally friendly company, such as LoadUp, and responsibly recycling your scrap metal. We make an effort to recycle when possible.
How to Identify Scrap Metal Type
It is important to identify what type of scrap metal you have – different types recycle for different amounts. There are two different categories of metal that you can recycle – ferrous metals and non-ferrous metals.
To figure out what type of metal you have, we find that it’s best to start with the magnet test. Any type of magnet will work – even common refrigerator magnets. If a magnet sticks to it, it’s ferrous metal, like iron or steel. These are common but not worth as much money.
If the magnet doesn’t stick, you’ve hit the jackpot with a non-ferrous metal, like copper, aluminum, or brass. These are more valuable and recycling plants will pay more for them.
Extra scrap metal weighing you down? BOOK A PICKUP
Types of Scrap Metal for Recycling
Now that you know the category of metal that you have, let’s dig into specific types of scrap metal that you can recycle. Certain types are more common than others and are therefore worth less.
Ferrous Metals
| Metal Type | Average Price |
| Stainless Steel | $0.28 – $0.64 / lb |
| Iron | $0.04 – $0.14 / lb |
| Alloy Steel | $0.18 – $0.47 / lb |
| Wrought Iron | $0.03 – $0.13 / lb |
| Carbon Steel | $0.21 – $0.44 / lb |
Non-Ferrous Metals
| Metal Type | Average Price |
| Aluminum | $0.65 – $1.07 / lb |
| Brass | $1.59 – $1.76 / lb |
| Bronze | $1.83 – $2.40 / lb |
| Copper | $2.13 – $2.43 / lb |
| Titanium | $4.27 – $5.80 / lb |
Keep in mind that the above figures are average prices for scrap metal. The prices at your local scrap yard may vary. Prices also change daily, so to make the most possible through scrap metal recycling, we recommend checking prices and recycling when they are at their highest.
How Much Can You Earn from Scrap Metal Recycling?
The total amount you can earn from scrap metal recycling can vary a lot. If you’re recycling different types of scrap metal, like copper or aluminum, and have a lot to recycle, you can make more money.
Some metals are worth more than others as you can see from the above charts. For example, copper usually sells for more money than iron.
We find that people approach scrap metal recycling differently. Some do it as a full-time job. They gather a lot of scrap metal, sort it, and can make a good amount of money through recycling, sometimes a few thousand dollars a month.
Others might just have some extra scrap metal after finishing a project. They might not earn as much, maybe just a few dollars. Remember, prices for scrap metal can change. They depend on the market demand. So, what you earn one month might be different the next.
Recycling Tip: It’s important to check the current prices at your local scrap yard before selling your scrap as prices can change. You can also check online to compare different scrap yards and pricing.
Where to Recycle Scrap Metal
If you have a bunch of scrap metal sitting around and want to make an extra buck, your local scrap yard is a great place to start. We recommend calling them first to make sure they’ll take the type of metal you have.
Different scrap yards might only accept certain kinds of metal, and some have rules about the condition of the metal.
For example, they might want the metal to be clean or not mixed with other materials. This helps them recycle it easier. Remember, recycling scrap metal is not just good for your wallet, but it’s also good for the environment.
And if you need help, our company, LoadUp, can remove your scrap metal and take care of the recycling for you.
LoadUp’s Scrap Metal Recycling Services
Recycling scrap metal is not just good for the environment, but it can also be good for your pocket. We understand that figuring out how to transport and recycle it can be tough. Most scrap metal is big and bulky, making it a hassle to move.
That’s where LoadUp comes in! We offer an easy scrap metal recycling service. If you’ve got scrap metal, just schedule online with us. It’s really that simple.
Have scrap metal you need recycled? BOOK A PICKUP
We give you upfront pricing, so you know exactly what it costs. No surprises! Plus, we’re super fast. We can usually be there the same day or the next day. Our service is hassle-free, making recycling your scrap metal easy!
Please Note: While this service doesn’t include a payment for the recycled materials, it offers you an easy and convenient way to handle your scrap metal responsibly!
Make a Difference with Every Piece of Scrap Metal
Recycling scrap metal is a big deal for the economy, even though it’s not as big as mining. In the United States, the scrap metal recycling industry was worth more than $64 billion in 2020. That’s a lot!
Recovered recycled metals like aluminum, copper, and lead, were worth about $40 billion. But we can do even better. If we recycle more scrap metal, the economy can benefit even more.
And the good news? You can be a part of this too. When you recycle metal, you’re not just helping the planet; you’re also supporting an industry that adds to our economy.
LoadUp is here to help. We can remove your scrap metal and make sure it gets recycled the right way. If you decide you need help, we are just a few clicks away!
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