3 Steps to Boosting Your Income With Copper Recycling

Posted on: 11 December 2020

Scrap metal recycling can be a lucrative source of side income or even a full-time job for dedicated scrappers. These aren't the only ways to make money from scrap, however. If you already operate a business that requires the use of one or more trucks, then you may be able to boost your existing business income by collecting scrap.

Copper will usually fetch the highest price per pound among the more commonly available metals, so it's an excellent place to start. Although typically worth less than copper, other metals may still be worth collecting if you can do so conveniently. Keep reading to see how you can turn copper and other metals into an extra income stream for your business.

Step 1: Identify Scrap Sources

A surprisingly large number of businesses and contractors have access to a wealth of scrap that goes entirely ignored. If your firm does construction or demolition work, then it's likely that you come across old plumbing all the time. Old appliances and electronics also contain many copper wires and may even include heat sinks with significant copper content.

While many of these sources may not individually produce much scrap metal, they can add up over time. One of the advantages of treating scrap metal collection as a secondary business income source is that you can collect small amounts of metal during your regular day-to-day operations. Be sure to identify any metal you can conveniently pick up, even if it doesn't seem to amount to much.

Step 2: Develop Transportation and Storage Strategies

Dedicated scrap collectors often develop routes and deliver their haul to scrap yards. This approach may not work if scrapping isn't your primary business, and the slower collection rate means it may take longer for a trip to the scrapyard to become worthwhile. To account for this, you'll want to develop transportation and storage strategies that do not interfere with your everyday operations.

A good technique is to choose one vehicle in your fleet to perform scrapyard delivery duties. Set aside enough storage space for scrap metal to fill that vehicle's cargo area, and only schedule transport runs when you can take a full load. Minimizing your trips to the scrapyard while maximizing your haul will help to ensure that recycling remains a net positive for your business' income.

Step 3: Contact Local Scrap Yards

Many scrap yards are happy to work with local businesses. If you use a regular drop-off schedule, then developing a relationship with at least one local yard can help to simplify your operations. If you are expected at a regular time, scrapyard workers can help you to unload your truck and quickly value your metal so you can get back to business as soon as possible.

Scrap recycling may not work for all businesses, but it can be a lucrative addition for those with ready access to materials and a means of transportation. Adding this straightforward aspect to your business may be the perfect way to boost your income. To learn more, contact copper recycling services. 

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