Summer 2026 has arrived in Richmond, and the heat isn’t going anywhere soon. As temperatures rise, so does the need for quality scrap metal. If you want some extra cash for vacations, beach trips, or even your AC bill, come see us at Smith Iron & Metal.

We’ve been Richmond’s trusted scrap experts since 1940, and this is our 86th summer. We know you want to get in, get paid, and get back to the shade. Here’s what you need to know about our process and which materials are paying well this summer.

How to Get Weighed and Get Paid this Summer

After decades in the business, we’ve made our process quick and fair. With 86 years of experience and modern industrial scales, you’ll be in and out fast.

It’s as easy as 1-2-3:

1. Find Your Scrap: Clean out the garage, the workshop, or the job site.
2. Haul It Up Here: Head over to our yard at 3000 Bells Road.
3. The Weigh-In: Check in with our team. Drive over our first industrial scale to get your loaded weight.
4. Unload & Re-Weigh: After you unload your scrap, drive over the second scale to get your unloaded weight.
5. Instant Payout: We calculate the difference and pay you right away for every pound. You leave with cash in hand.

High-Value Materials for Summer 2026

This year, global demand for metals like copper and aluminum is higher than ever. Here’s what we’re looking for right now:

• Copper & Brass: These are the most valuable metals in the yard. With more infrastructure and electronics projects in 2026, copper prices are strong. Bring in old wiring, plumbing pipes, and brass fixtures.
• AC Components (Radiators & Compressors): Summer is the busiest time for HVAC upgrades. Instead of tossing old units, bring us your aluminum or copper radiators and heavy compressors.
• Automotive Scrap: Hot weather leads to more breakdowns. We accept auto motors, transmissions, and aluminum wheels.
• The Big Stuff: We also take appliances, raw steel, rebar, cast iron, and even irony aluminum, which is aluminum with steel attached.
• Pro Tip: If you sort your metals before you arrive, like keeping copper separate from aluminum, our team can grade your load faster and make sure you get the best rate for each material.

The Payout: Honest Prices, No Games

Prices change every day in 2026, but at SIM, our promise is the same as it was in 1940: we pay you fairly and honestly. We don’t use confusing pricing. Our experience helps us give you the best rate for the grade you bring.

Want to check today’s prices? Call us at (804) 271-1239 before you come by.

Start Your Summer Payout Today

Don’t let scrap metal take up space in the sun. Whether you’re a contractor with a trailer of rebar or a homeowner with an old grill and copper pipe, we can help you turn it into a summer paycheck.

Have a great and safe summer! If you have questions, contact us online, message us on Facebook, or call us. We’ll see you at the scales!