Mobile scrap metal pickup

Homeowners, landlords, renovators and small contractors who want things hauled away. Scrapyards pay you for the sorted metal.

You earn the difference between what you pay or charge for pickup and what the scrapyard pays per kilo or pound of each metal. Some jobs add a small removal fee. Metal prices move up and down.

• Knowing metals (copper, aluminum, steel, brass)
• Safe lifting and loading
• Negotiating fair prices
• Keeping simple records

• Municipal and provincial rules for scrap and second-hand dealers, which may require a licence, seller ID records or limits on cash payments, so check locally
• Never buy items that could be stolen, and keep records of who you got material from
• Commercial vehicle and general liability insurance, and checking whether your personal auto policy covers hauling
• Hazards in appliances such as refrigerants, so check the rules for handling them before taking fridges or air conditioners
• Metal prices change and winter weather can slow collection
• Heavy lifting and sharp metal, so use gloves and good technique

Startup costs are typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your vehicle and equipment. Metal prices change, so keep that in mind when planning your income.

Check municipal and provincial rules for scrap and second-hand dealers, which may require a licence, seller ID records or limits on cash payments. Also check the rules for handling refrigerants in fridges and air conditioners, and whether your personal auto policy covers hauling.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $700 to $3,500, depending on how much metal you collect and current metal prices. Winter weather can slow collection.