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Rules for Collecting Scrap Metal

Collecting scrap metal is an activity that keeps landfills and other areas free of metal debris, but can carry special regulations that must be followed. Most scrap metal is old iron and steel, coming from discarded automobiles, household appliances, railroad tracks and other sources. Other sources of scrap metal are items that are made of something other than iron or steel, and as such, are more valuable per pound. Some items may be hazardous, such as drums from a mill, radioactive scrap from the military or discarded equipment from a hospital.

Skip the Middle Man
- Research prices. Call local scrap yards and, if possible, deal directly with a metal scrap processor, who works directly with the recycling of the metal products, rather than a broker or peddler, who only dilutes the full price.
Trash or Treasure?
- Find sources of scrap in your area. Know the garbage pick-up schedule of various neighborhoods and drive through the night before. Always be on the lookout for discarded appliances -- especially large &heavy ones, like refrigerators, freezers or air conditioners -- as they contain metal and can be collected for scrap.
Scrap 4 "Free"
- Place ads online in the "Free" section of online messageboards, Craigslist and other sites offering to remove junk. This is an easy way to create a win-win situation where you get scrap and the other person gets some of their space back.
Scrap Hazards
- Be careful to properly handle any potentially hazardous scrap. Any items discarded by a hospital, military base or similar establishment should be treated with special care. Some metals are naturally magnetic or radioactive. Make sure you are aware of the type of metal or metal alloy that makes up the materials you are handling.

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