Rather than thinking of the junk car taking up space on your property as an eyesore, consider it a source of quick cash. Scrap metal recycling centers buy most, if not all, of your car’s components among other metal pieces sitting in your garage or attic. Recycling these parts and pieces is a wonderful way to make extra money and contribute to a greener, more sustainable planet.

Top 4 Scrap Metal Recycling Tips

1. Purchase An Industrial Magnet

Invest in an industrial magnet to determine if your metal is ferrous or non-ferrous. Ferrous metals such as iron and steel stick to magnets, while non-ferrous metals such as copper, stainless steel, aluminum, and brass do not. Ferrous metals are not worth as much as non-ferrous options, so a magnet is a great tool to have.

2. Take Safety Precautions

Keep safety in mind while handling scrap metal since many pieces have sharp edges or feature rust. Wear thick gloves and eye goggles in addition to protective clothing because cutting yourself on a rusty piece may cause infection. Wash your hands and arms with soap and water to remove metal residue once you are finished.

3. Separate, Separate, Separate

Separate your metal into individual piles for a higher profit. Instead of selling an entire vehicle to a scrap yard, for example, you can take it apart to sell aluminum pieces, engine parts, and other components individually. It is one of the easiest ways to get more money from this recycling activity.

4. Research Prices

Research average prices for your scrap items so you know you are getting a good price. Contact several local junkyards to see what they need the most of, such as copper wiring or aluminum car parts. Develop a good working relationship with these yards, especially if you plan to do a lot of scrap metal recycling.

Keep track of what you have and stay abreast of fluctuating metal prices. Work with reputable scrap metal recycling centers such as T&S Auto Salvage—the Thomasville, NC, junkyard serving communities within a 40-mile radius. The yard accepts any old car, including those aged 10 years or older without titles. Call (336) 882-7989 to schedule a pickup or visit their website for more information.