Looking to make an extra buck from scrap metal but don’t know where to start? You don’t need to be in the trades to find valuable scrap. You just need to know where to look and how to do it the right way.
Hard Rubbish Collections – Hidden Gold on the Curb
One of the best sources of free scrap metal is sitting right there on your local streets during hard rubbish collections. But you need to be smart about it.
What to Look For:
- Old fridges and washing machines (full of steel and sometimes copper)
- Air conditioning units (radiators and brass fixtures are particularly valuable)
- Hot water systems (steel tanks and copper pipes)
- Metal bed frames and furniture
- Old BBQs and outdoor furniture
- Exercise equipment with metal components
The Real Money Makers: Radiators and brass fixtures are where the serious money is.. Copper pipes from old appliances are also excellent value – they’re easy to spot with their distinctive colour and are always in demand.
Important Legal Note: Before you start collecting, check your local council rules. Some areas don’t allow collection once items are placed on the curb, while others have specific time windows. A quick call to your council can save you from potential fines.
Industrial Areas – The Real Opportunity
Here’s where the consistent money is – your local industrial areas. This strategy requires a bit more effort but can set you up with regular income.
Why This Works: Many small companies work with metal but don’t have the space or volume to justify having a bin on site. They still need to get rid of scrap metal, and disposal is a headache. If you’ve got a ute or trailer, you can solve their problem and make money at the same time.
Where to Look:
- Small fabrication workshops
- Mechanical repair shops
- Electrical contractors
- Panel beaters
- Plumbing businesses
- Small manufacturing operations
The Right Approach: Walk in, introduce yourself professionally, and ask if they have any scrap metal they need cleared. Some might even call you back when they’ve got more.
How to Do It Right
Be Professional:
- Introduce yourself properly
- Explain what you’re offering clearly
- Be respectful of their time and workspace
- Follow through on any commitments you make
Build Relationships:
- Offer regular pickup services
- Leave your contact details
- Be reliable – if you say you’ll come back, do it
- Consider offering to sweep up or tidy the area after collection
Stay Legal:
- Always ask permission before taking anything
- Respect private property
- Follow local council regulations
- Don’t take anything that’s clearly not scrap
Making It Worth Your Time
The key to making this profitable is being systematic. Don’t just drive around randomly – plan your routes and build relationships with businesses that generate regular scrap. One good contact can provide ongoing income for months.
Volume Matters: While a single brass tap might be worth good money, you’ll need volume to make regular trips worthwhile. Focus on building up a load that’s worth the trip to the scrap yard.
Know Your Materials: Learn to identify different types of metal and their relative values. Copper, brass, and aluminum are worth much more than steel, so prioritise these when space is limited.
What to Do With Your Scrap
Once you’ve collected your materials, you need a reliable buyer who’ll give you fair prices and transparent service. That’s where Inner City Metals comes in.
We provide:
- Fair market pricing based on current rates
- Transparent dockets showing exactly what you’re paid for
- Professional service that respects your time
- Helpful advice on maximising your returns
Getting Started
Start small and build up. Begin with hard rubbish collections in your area to get a feel for what’s valuable and what’s not. Once you’re comfortable, start approaching businesses in your local industrial area.
Remember – this will never get you rich quick, it’s about building a sustainable side income through consistent effort and professional relationships.
The Bottom Line
Free scrap metal is out there, but finding it consistently requires the right approach. Be professional, be legal, and be persistent. Help businesses solve their disposal problems and you’ll have a regular supply of valuable materials.
Ready to turn your scrap into money? Bring it to Inner City Metals where we’ll give you fair prices and transparent service every time.
