Scrap metal recycling is a smart way to clean the environment and get some dollars on the side. However, if it is not done right, you may not get all the money you deserve. This article will discuss four common pitfalls when recycling metal to help you avoid them and get more bucks for your scrap metal.

1. Taking Contaminated Scrap Metal

The first pitfall is taking contaminated metal to the scrapyard. This can cut into your profits since most scrap yards won't accept metal that has been tainted with paint, insulation, or other materials. Even worse, you could end up paying to have the contaminated metal disposed of properly. Therefore, before heading to the scrapyard, ensure all your metal is clean and free of contaminants.

2. Not Knowing the Value of Your Scrap Metal

Before hauling your aluminum siding or copper wire to the scrapyard, do a little research to get a rough idea of how much money to expect. The amount you get depends on the type of metal you recycle and the current market conditions. However, a quick internet search should give you a general idea of what your scrap is worth. Another thing to remember is that scrapyards often pay by the pound, so be sure to weigh your load before heading out.

3. Not Separating Your Metals

Scrap metals are not priced the same. As such, sorting your scrap before taking it to the yard is invaluable. For example, copper is relatively expensive, so if you have many copper wires or pipes, you could be losing some money by not separating it from other metals. You could also recycle aluminum, which is not as valuable as copper. Therefore, if you have a mixture of copper and aluminum, separate them before taking them to the scrapyard. Otherwise, you could be leaving money on the table.

4. Failing to Remove Non-metal Materials

Plastics, rubber, and other non-metal materials can contaminate scrap metal, making it difficult or impossible for recyclers to process. As a result, you could get less money for your scrap metal - or even get nothing. Before you haul your scrap metal off to the nearest scrapyard, take the time to remove any non-metal materials. It might take an extra effort, but it will be worth it when you get a big chunk of money for your haul.

Now that you have read about the common pitfalls when recycling your scrap metal, you can recycle your scrap metal and get what you are entitled to stress-free. Remember to always consult with a reliable scrapyard before making a trip. They can steer you in the right direction and ensure you get every penny you deserve for your recyclables. For more information, contact a company like G & M Metal, Inc.