Recycling metals has been a common practice for decades. Aluminum, tungsten, copper, bronze, brass, lead and more metals are often found lying around beside construction sites or junk heaps. This metal can be recycled into new metals and materials. For many people, metal recycling is not only helpful to the environment, it can also be profitable. Many scrap metal dealers will pay to recycle your scrap aluminum. It is important to understand the process of recycling aluminum and then look for the best option. This article will tell you how to recycle scrap aluminum.
1Weigh the scrap aluminum that you have collected. At about 50 lbs. (23 kg), aluminum begins to be profitable. You may need to collect more over time, if you would like to increase your profit.
- People who collect scrap metals recommend that you look outside of construction sites, or make friends with builders, electricians and contractors. They will tell you when they have a quantity of metal that needs to be taken away. This is usually done at no cost to you.
2Call your city's waste collection company, if you do not want to recycle scrap aluminum for money. Some cities allow free collection of scrap metal and appliances on certain days. Your county's waste management division should be able to instruct you on the best number to call and day to place your scrap metal outside of your home.
3Look in the phone book for scrap metal yards. These may include automobile recycling centers. Scrap metal yards pay the current rate for aluminum, which they later sell for a larger profit.
- Ask if the scrap metal recycler provides pick up, of if you are required to do it yourself. You may need to arrange a time to bring your scrap metal to the yard, and trade the metal for cash. If this is the case, try to choose a yard that is close to home.
- Research the going rate for aluminum metal on the day you recycle your aluminum. You may be able to bargain with the yard based on the rates that are fair.
4Go online and research scrap metal recyclers. Some online companies will give quotes based on the amount of scrap aluminum you have. Ask if they will pick it up or if you are required to ship it, as shipping prices for metals can be expensive.
- Compare a few companies before deciding who to go with. You may also want to read their reviews on the Better Business Bureau website, to make sure they maintain fair practices and environmentally friendly recycling messages.
5Sell your scrap aluminum on eBay. You will need to set up an account in order to do so; however, if you have a large amount of scrap aluminum this may be the best option to get a fair price.
6Give away your scrap aluminum on Craigslist. If you do not have options for city pick up, scrap metal yards or eBay, someone in your area may be trying to accumulate large amounts of metals for recycling and selling.Ad
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Things You'll Need
- Scrap aluminum
- Phone book
- eBay account
- Craigslist advertisement
- County Waste Management phone number