Whether you are new to recycling or if you have been doing it for years, you likely know that metal recycling prices can vary depending on the type of metal and that the prices can change significantly without warning. At James G. Grant Company, located in Readville, Massachusetts, we want to help you get ahead of the game and receive the greatest return for your recycling efforts.
Metal recycling prices are affected by 4 major factors:
- Supply and demand
- Quality of the metal
- Amount of metal
- Destination
Keep a close eye on the market. The trend of supply and demand applies to every industry cost, including the metal recycling prices. If a metal is in high demand and low supply, it will sell at a higher price. One example of when this happens is during a housing boom. The need for metal, like copper, increases and drives the value up; however, if the housing market drops, so does the need for metal materials. If the value is low, wait to sell.
Generally, when the weather is nice the demand for recycled metals is higher. This is mostly because of the construction and auto industries, which are busier when the weather is nicer and slower when cold, snowy weather hits.
Keep the metals organized as best as possible. The quality of the metal you recycle will naturally affect the metal recycling prices you receive. If the scrap metal is corroded or covered in insulation or residue, or if you have a mixture of metals per piece (like aluminum with steel bolts or brass containing other metals), you will likely receive a lower price.
Recycle in bulk when possible. If you sell a larger quantity of metal, we will be able to give you a higher price.
The destination is also a factor. If the metal needs to be transported long distances, you will likely get a lower price for it.
A significant portion of the metals market relies on recycled material. Today, it has been estimated that over one million metric tons of scrap metal are recycled worldwide annually, affecting metal recycling prices.
If you have been needing to recycle any metals and want to make the most of your efforts, contact our scrap metal specialists here at James G. Grant Co. today! For over 50 years, we have been helping companies and homeowners recycle their metals responsibly.