Your role
What a scrap broker is responsible for
On the platform a broker is the seller. That brings the seller's responsibilities, whatever you have agreed privately with the original seller.
| Responsibility | What it means |
|---|---|
| Authenticity of the listing | The material, quantity and condition must match what you described, and the listing must be genuine |
| Authority to sell | You need the right to sell the material from the person who owns or controls it |
| Fulfilling seller obligations | You deliver or arrange collection as described, and respond to the buyer |
| Paying the original seller | You settle with them under your own agreement |
| Rules and compliance | Licensing, tax, transport, safety and environmental rules apply to the deal |
Want to list as a broker? Register on ScrapTrade.
Register as a sellerHonest listings
Describe what you actually have
Listings that overstate grade, quantity or condition lead to disputes and refunds, and they put you, not the original seller, in the position of the party who sold it. If you have not seen the material, say so and describe only what you have been told. See the agreement checklist for how to get reliable details from the seller.
Keep it on the platform
Why the sale stays on ScrapTrade
Keeping the sale and payment on ScrapTrade means the order is recorded and handled through the platform's normal process. Moving a buyer or a payment off the platform takes the sale outside that process.
Never
Things a broker should not do
A broker should never
- List material they cannot show the right to sell
- Misstate the grade, quantity, condition or location
- Promise a buyer something the original seller has not agreed
- Take a buyer's payment outside the platform
- Hide the broker relationship from the people involved
In Australia
Australian terms to add
Add which state or territory's rules apply, how GST is treated on the price between you and the original seller, and who keeps which records. Have the agreement reviewed by a qualified Australian adviser if it is significant.
Frequently asked questions
What is a scrap broker responsible for?
The authenticity of the listing and fulfilling the seller's obligations on the platform, including having the authority to sell the material.
Is the original seller responsible to the buyer?
On the platform the broker is the seller. Any arrangement between the broker and the original seller is private.
Do I need the original seller's permission to list?
Yes. You need the authority to sell their material, and it is best confirmed in writing.
What if the material is not as described?
That is the broker's responsibility as the seller. Describe only what you can support.
More about scrap brokering
Sourcing scrap to resell?
Register on ScrapTrade and list it as a broker.
Related reading: Agreement with the original seller · Is brokering right for you? · Scrap broker FAQ