A practical guide to sourcing scrap metal legally and ethically, then getting it ready to sell for the best price.
Rule of thumb: if nobody has clearly said yes to you taking it, it isn't free scrap.
Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and Freecycle regularly have people giving away old appliances and metal offcuts.
Offer local businesses free removal of old shelving, machinery, or fixtures they'd otherwise pay to have hauled away.
Council bulk-waste collection days often leave scrap metal items curbside before the truck arrives.
Builders and renovators often just want offcuts and old fittings gone — ask before a job wraps up.
Buy-nothing and community groups are a steady source if you check in regularly.
Sort by metal type — ferrous, non-ferrous, and mixed lots price very differently
Strip wiring and insulation where you can — clean copper is worth far more than insulated wire
Photograph clearly before listing — good photos get more competitive bids
Batch similar material together rather than listing single small items
Yes, but treat it as a numbers game — consistent, regular sourcing beats waiting for one big find.
Renovators, demolition crews, electricians, and businesses clearing out old equipment are usually the most reliable sources.
Yes, as long as it was genuinely offered to you — never take material that hasn't been clearly given away.
List it on ScrapTrade and get bids from verified buyers.
List What You've Collected