The field of scrap metal recycling has experienced many changes in the recent past. However, one thing has remained almost the same – how prices are determined. Scrap metal prices are a function of current market value, quantity, location, and metal type.

So how do you negotiate the best prices? The best way to get value for your scrap metal is to manipulate any or all of the four different parameters that determine their prices.  

The following are the three simple strategies that can help you get better pricing:

Play the Market

Every factor remaining constant, scrap metal prices tend to drop slightly in the summer and rise faintly in the winter. The scenario is particularly true in those areas with extremely cold winters. In such areas, harsh weather impedes scrappers and recyclers from collecting and salvaging. You can certainly use this to your advantage.

If you hold onto your scrap metal for a couple metals prior to selling, you'll likely observe a rise in prices during winter.

NOTE: This strategy works only in the scrap markets without much volatility (markets whose prices don't jump and fall constantly without reason).

Play the Quantity

Anytime you sell/buy in bulk, you always get better pricing. The situation at the scrap yard isn't any different. Rather than selling your brass in a bucketful, you can try the barrel full! This way, you'll be able to save close to a 55-gallon barrel of the metal. A semi-full barrel of brass may weigh 1/4 – ¾ ton based on the type of brass components it contains. Scrap yards are more receptive to price requests if you tell them you'll bring ½ ton of brass. Hopefully, the yard will be happy to offer you almost 10% more than their normal price. You can apply this mentality to all metals.

Save up your shred metal and dispose it by the dumpster-full or even trailer-full.

Play the Scrap Yards

Each scrap yard will compete for your business if it's consistent. You can start by being a steady client at a yard that's proven itself dependable or of a high-caliber. The better a yard is, the better they treat their clients. Introduce yourself to the owner. Save your yard price tickets always – ALL OF THEM! After developing a consistent and steady relationship, have a polite and frank conversation with the yard owner. Because of your consistent business, you have the upper hand when negotiating your case for better prices.

Getting better scrap metal prices should be challenging. You just need to be strategic. By playing the above cards, you'll surely enjoy better prices in the scrap yards.