How to Sell Junk Metal

During the economic downturn, many people came up with highly creative ways to earn extra cash. Some people found their extra cash in their own homes and businesses. Colorado scrap metal buyers say, people are sitting on hundreds or even thousands of dollars in materials that could be recycled at scrapyards.

Letting this opportunity pass you by is a huge mistake. Making money with your old or unused metal is easy and profitable. The most important thing to do before selling scrap is to learn about scrap prices and the industry. To make money you need to understand the grades of scrap metal and which are the most prized when it comes to resale. Buyers of scrap metal typically base their pricing on the grade of metal and the material of which is is made. Common recyclable material includes zinc, alloys, copper, iron, nickel, and carbide. Different grades of scrap often correspond to different industries that require a certain type of metal. Brass, for instance, is often used for engine builds and transmissions where as wire is used for copper bearings.

After determining the grade of metal, the buyer will start negotiation. Although in some cases the Denver scrap metal prices are paid on a set rate that holds steady throughout the year, in most cases the price of scrap metals will fluctuate with the market. Prices of metal depend on supply and demand and fluctuate frequently. Many people and businesses will do research on the prices of metal before going to the yard so they have some information on what to expect from the buyer. You can also call several yards to see if one offers a better price than another. For the best results when selling scrap metal, make sure to start out comparing prices and doing your research. With constant market fluctuation you may find that your scrap is more valuable in the summer than the winter.


If you do not have scrap metal of your own you can contact local businesses and arrange to pick up their scrap on a regular basis. Some businesses will jump at the opportunity to have their "junk" picked up and hauled away for free. Some common places you can visit to collect metal for recycling and selling are automotive shops, electricians, plumbers, tire shops, fencing companies, construction sites, craigslist and shooting ranges. Shooting ranges are a business that very few people think of when looking for scrap metal, but the spent shells are plentiful and can make you quite a bit of cash. Remember to always get permission from the owner of the business before taking scrap metal from a private business. Metal has monetary value and it is criminal trespassing and stealing to enter a location and leave with what you deem their junk.