Metal recycling is a great way to reduce waste and earn cash, but it’s not quite as easy as simply dropping off a load of used metal at the scrap yard. Below, the experts at Metalico Rochester in Rochester, New York, explain how to avoid five common mistakes sellers make when bringing in scrap metal.

5 Metal Recycling Mistakes Sellers Make At The Scrap Yard

1. Not Bringing Identification

To legally accept scrap metal, scrap yards in most states must ask for a valid driver’s license and verify anyone dropping off scrap is 18 years of age or older. If you can’t provide identification, the scrap yard can’t complete the transaction.

2. Improperly Preparing Materials

While most scrap metal can simply be brought in as is, responsible scrap yards may have safety policies that govern their acceptance of certain items. At Metalico Rochester, for instance, items with small engines, like lawn mowers, need to be drained of fluids, and air conditioners and freezers should have any Freon drained. Scrap yards often ask for tanks that hold contents under pressure, like propane tanks or fire extinguishers, to be emptied completely and either cut in half or drilled with holes to verify their emptiness.

3. Improperly Identifying What You Have

One metal recycling mistake that can lead to a rejection is improperly identifying the types of materials you have. Because prices vary so widely between different metals, it pays to know for sure what types of metal you’re bringing in so you can estimate what you’ll be taking away.

4. Failing To Separate

Once you’ve identified what types of scrap metal you have, separate them into multiple streams. Bringing tidy, pre-separated piles of materials will help you get in and out of the scrap yard quickly and ensure your weights and measurements are accurate.

5. Not Checking Policies

Most metal recycling mistakes, including those listed above, stem from a failure to check the scrap yard’s policies before loading up your scrap. A professional scrap yard will usually post guidelines and restrictions online. Metalico Rochester, for instance, has a list of what you can scrap as well as an informative frequently asked questions page. You may also want to call the scrap yard with any questions you can’t answer through these resources.

If you have scrap metal to sell in the Rochester area, trust Monroe County’s most professional scrap yard. With three convenient locations, Metalico Rochester can meet all your metal recycling needs. Visit them online to find out more or call (585) 436-0713 today with any questions.