If you’re seeking ways to make some extra cash on the side, starting a scrap metal project could be right for you. Recycling metal is a great way to turn your extra time into a profitable side project, and it doesn’t take any special skills or tools to get started. All you’ll need are a few basic supplies and some knowledge on where to find metal and how to sort it, which you can discover below. 

5 Steps for Generating Scrap Metal Income

1. Acquire Your Supplies

Recycling metal requires very minimal investment. The only supplies you’ll need to get started are a magnet of any size, a bin for collecting metal, and separate containers to sort your different types of metals. You should be able to find these items at your local hardware store.

2. Know Where to Find Metal

The next step is actually tracking down metal throughout your local area. From gutted homes to demolition sites, there’s an abundance of scrap metal lurking all around, but you’ll need permission to get it. Most people are happy to have someone take it off their hands but always ask before entering properties. You can also pass out flyers or check local swap and sale groups to find unwanted metal.

3. Learn About Metal Types

There are two main types of metal: ferrous (containing iron) and nonferrous. Typically, nonferrous metals yield higher payments than ferrous. A magnet will usually pick up ferrous metal. Nonferrous ones are further broken down into types, including aluminum, brass, copper, lead, and stainless steel, each of which is paid out at different rates.

4. Sort & Clean Your Metal

Because the pay rates for different metals can vary drastically, you’ll want to make sure you sort your scrap appropriately. Copper and brass, for instance, tend to be worth more than steel and aluminum. Have a designated bin for each, and take your time to sort carefully. 

5. Bring it to a Recycling Center

Finally, seek out a reputable recycling center in your area that accommodates scrapping. These facilities may each have their own policies and rates for taking metal, and not all types may be accepted. It’s a good idea to get in touch with someone from the center before your first drop-off.

When residents in the Cincinnati, OH area are seeking a place where they can get paid for scrap metal, they go to David Hirschberg Steel & Recycling Center. This metal recycling center has been serving the Tri-State area for more than a century. They pay for aluminum, copper, brass, and other types of metals, and will always welcome walk-ins and questions of any type. Learn more the recycling center’s accepted materials online or call (513) 821-0514 to speak with a team member today.