Mobile Scrap Car and Metal Pickup

Car owners, landlords, contractors and homeowners with old vehicles or scrap metal pay you or give it away, and scrapyards or recyclers pay you for what you deliver.

You earn from the difference between what you pay a seller (often little or nothing) and the payout from the yard or recycler, plus any removal fees. Scrap prices change, so margins vary.

• Driving and towing a loaded vehicle safely
• Quick, fair pricing
• Basic paperwork and record keeping
• Physical fitness for lifting and loading

• Local scrap dealer or secondhand dealer licences, which vary by municipality and are worth checking
• Always verify ownership and keep a signed bill of sale and ID record to avoid handling stolen vehicles or parts
• Commercial auto and commercial general liability insurance, including cover for towing and for cargo
• Provincial rules on towing, load securing and vehicle weight limits
• Leaking fluids and batteries: check what you may transport and how yards expect them
• Winter driving and slower work in deep snow

Startup costs are typically around $5,000 to $30,000, depending on your tow vehicle or trailer, insurance and any vehicles you buy upfront. These are estimates, so price your own equipment before you begin.

Monthly revenue is typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how many pickups you do, scrap prices and your hours. Around 15 hours a week is a realistic start. These are revenue estimates, not profit.

Check local scrap or secondhand dealer licences, which vary by municipality, and provincial rules on towing, load securing and weight limits. Always verify ownership with a signed bill of sale and ID record, and check commercial auto and liability insurance.