A scrap yard may accept clean ferrous and nonferrous metal, but not every metal object is ready for the scale. Call about refrigerants, closed tanks, oil-filled equipment, electronics, catalytic converters, identification, and proof-of-ownership requirements.
Choose the route by condition
| What you have | Best first call |
|---|---|
| Clean steel or aluminum | Separate by metal type when practical and ask about prepared dimensions. |
| Appliance | Disclose refrigerants, compressors, motors, and sealed components. |
| Tank or closed container | Do not cut it; ask what certified preparation is required. |
| Wiring or regulated vehicle part | Bring required identification and ownership documentation. |
Prepare it before you load
- Remove ordinary trash and nonmetal attachments where safe.
- Identify sealed, pressurized, oil-filled, or refrigerant components.
- Contain sharp edges and keep long pieces from shifting.
- Confirm scale procedure, payment method, and identification rules.
Metal value does not override safety rules
Scrap facilities manage fire, explosion, theft, and contamination risks. A closed drum, propane cylinder, shock absorber, fuel tank, or compressed-gas component can be dangerous even when it appears empty. Do not torch or drill an unknown container to prepare it.
Prices vary with commodity markets, grade, cleanliness, and preparation. A quoted price may be per pound for a specific grade and may change before arrival. Ask how deductions, minimum weights, and mixed loads are handled rather than assuming the highest advertised price applies.
This guide explains the decision. The finder provides nearby research leads from public records. A listed place is not a promise that it accepts this material today.
Common mistakes
- Cutting a closed tank
- Hiding trash inside metal items
- Expecting a phone quote to apply to mixed grades
- Transporting sharp or long pieces unsecured
Questions to ask before the trip
- Which grades and prepared sizes do you accept?
- What identification or ownership records are required?
- How are appliances, tanks, and oil-filled items handled?
- Are current prices gross or after deductions?
Do not transport a leaking, reacting, smoking, unstable, or unknown hazardous item based only on a web guide. Move away from immediate danger and contact local emergency or hazardous-waste staff.
Sources and review notes
Reviewed August 4, 2026. We use primary government and program sources where available. Links open the current publisher page; local rules can change after our review.