Copper can be a highly lucrative product to sell as a scrap metal. However, if you don't know what you're doing when you recycle copper, the process might be much more difficult. If you have a large amount of copper to sell, you will need an efficient process in place so you can organize the copper for sale as soon as possible.
Know What is Expected of the Scrapyard
The scrapyard will usually want you to separate copper from other metals if you are intending on selling more than one type of metal. Otherwise, you may only be offered money for the metal that is of the lowest value.
You should also separate the copper from other materials to streamline the process and to be offered more money. By separating the materials, you will also be able to recycle your copper in the most environmentally conscious way possible. Some scrapyards will also want you to clean the metal before you sell.
How to Find Copper
There are various types of copper that you can find and sell. Solid copper is the most obvious option, but do not overlook copper dust and trimmings. If you have enough copper dust and trimmings, they can be sold to the copper recycling service.
Solid copper can come in many grades based on how pure the copper is. You will also want to look for copper wire which is often found in electronics. You may also find copper breakage, which can be found inside motors, and copper alloy that is mixed with other metals.
Transporting the Copper to the Scrapyard
When you are transporting the copper to a copper scrapyard, you will need to bring your ID. This is because copper is often stolen by criminals. As a result, there might be laws in place that require that you produce an ID as you transport the copper to the scrapyard.
The Role of Roll Off Containers
If you have a large quantity of copper to recycle, it might be impractical to gather the copper together without the help of a commercial roll-off container. Then, you won't have to transport the copper yourself and a professional will instead come and do it for you.
In some cases, you may even be able to hire a company that will handle all of the organizing and cleaning for you and will haul all of the scrap metal away when you're done.
