Most of our customers are part time scrappers. They know how easy it is to get some extra cash at Smith Iron & Metal, so they do it on the side. During the pandemic, with so much job instability, many of our part-time scrappers turned into full-time scrappers, and made a lot of money doing it. We’re here to tell you, it takes talent, people skills, and effort… but it can be done. If done well, it can be super profitable!It’s not for everyone, so the question is… can YOU scrap full time?

Scrapping Full-Time Basics

Anyone can become a full-time scrapper, but you’ll need to understand that it isn’t a path to getting rich quick. It will be hard work, but you’ll be able to work on your own schedule, and answer only to yourself. The basics of part-time and full-time scrap metal recycling are the same; the big change is the time you put into it. So, let’s go over the basics again!

Learn your Metals

Scrap metals come in two basic types; Ferrous and non-ferrous. Ferrous metals such as steel, and Iron are much more common than non-ferrous metals. Ferrous metal is priced by the hundred weight (cwt). Non-ferrous metals like aluminum, copper, brass, and insulated wire are rarer, and therefore they will normally fetch a higher price per pound. All it takes to tell the difference between the two types of metal is a magnet. If the material is magnetic it is either iron or steel. If it is non magnetic it’s most likely non ferrous. If you have any questions feel free to ask us the next time you’re on the lot! We will gladly help you identify your scrap metal!

Use the Right Equipment

In business, time = money. You’ll want to invest in the tools that allow you to do your job faster or more efficiently. For instance, a truck with a big bed that can hold more scrap means bigger paydays per visit, which means you can spend less time driving back and forth to Smith Iron & Metal.

Other tools, such as cable cutters, wire strippers, multi-tools, crowbars, sawzalls, and scales will all help you make more money per load. Invest in your tools!

Make Some Contacts

People skills go a long way in this business. Reach out to friends, family, and acquaintances to let them know you’re happy to help haul away their scrap. Head to building sites and home improvement sites and (politely) ask the person in charge if they have plans for their scrap. With the right attitude, you’ll find people happy to hook you up with their scrap – and they’ll even call you on their next job and refer you to their friends.

Keep Everything Above Board

This goes without saying, but there is no room in this business for dishonesty or illicit practices. We’ve seen it all – we will know if you attempt to sneakily add weight to your scrap, and that constitutes fraud. Additionally, all scrap yards in the area stay in regular contact with law enforcement and regulatory agencies . If you attempt to bring us stolen scrap, the only choice we will have is to report you to the appropriate authorities. It’s just not worth it!

Batch Your Scrap

Don’t just show up with a truckload full of mixed metals. Clean, separate, and categorize each type of metal to the best of your ability. Use our “Scrap We Buy” page for some help determining which metal is which, if you need it!

Find a Trusted Scrap Yard

It’s important to establish a relationship with a local scrap yard. They’ll get to know you, you’ll get to know them, and it’ll make business easier, and therefore more profitable for everyone! We’d love to be your scrap partner, and encourage you to come up and meet the staff, and learn what makes Smith Iron different!

Contact Smith Iron & Metal about Commercial Scrap Recycling!

Now, don’t get us wrong. Scrapping full-time is not for everyone, and we’re certainly not telling you to quit your day job. However, for the right people, it can be a fulfilling alternative to the boredom of sitting at a desk all day or the back-breaking efforts of a labor worker.

Contact us online, send us a message on Facebook, or call us at (804) 271-1239! We’d be happy to answer any and all questions you have. We’d love to let you know all about commercial scrap recycling and the many positives it can have for your business!