urbanmine

Small Business Recycling

Author: Cory Walpole

As a small business owner, you can create a revenue stream by recycling scrap metal. Here, we will break down what fits into that category and show you how you can maximize your return when you decide to make money recycling.

First, let’s identify some common metals that can be recycled.

  • Ferrous Metals: Steel & Cast Iron
  • Non-Ferrous Metals:
  • Aluminum
  • Brass/Bronze
  • Copper
  • Copper Bearing, such as electric motors and transformers
  • Stainless Steel
  • Lead, including Lead-Acid Batteries
  • Zinc

Did you know that steel is one of the most recycled materials on earth? The biggest reason is that we can recycle it many times without compromising the metal. Some examples of steel that you might find at your small business are galvanized sheet, doors, cutouts and punchings, old machinery, automotive parts, pipe, and structural steel.

When selling your recyclable material, remember that non-ferrous metals are typically worth more than ferrous metals. Are you wondering if there is a quick and easy way to tell a ferrous metal from a non-ferrous metal? Use a magnet! If the magnet is attracted to it, it is a ferrous metal. On the other hand, if it does not stick to it, you have a non-ferrous metal. Common examples of non-ferrous metals would be copper, brass, aluminum and stainless steel. Always separate your metals the best you can to ensure you get the best return. When in doubt, talk to one of our knowledgeable staff; they can show you how to get the most revenue from your scrap.

Aside from scrap metal providing an additional revenue stream, it benefits the environment. When scrap metal is recycled, it reduces the demand for newly mined metals. Recycling metal also reduces the risk of contaminating landfills with toxins such as mercury and lead. When this happens, it can compromise the land quality and pose a threat to wildlife and humans. 

At Urbanmine, we know that owning your own business can be hectic, and we want to help you as much as we can! Our mobile purchasing service can come to your workplace, pick up your non-ferrous metals, and pay you on the spot. This service saves you the time and energy of having to deliver the material on your own. The urbanmine mobile service comes equipped with scales and friendly buyers. If it’s ferrous metal you have, contact our office. We have several options depending on the steel type, size and quantity.

Whether you’re a tradesperson working on a job site; a farmer with scrap on the back 40; or a scrap collector – we welcome you to urbanmine with a smile, a clean yard, and a competitive price. If you have any questions or want to take advantage of our services, you can email us at info@urbanmine.ca or call 1-866-820-2786.

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