Mobile scrap pickup and resale

Scrap yards and recyclers pay you for sorted material. Some homeowners and contractors also pay a small fee for hauling away bulky items.

You earn the gap between what you pay or charge at pickup (often free) and what the yard pays per pound by metal type. Hauling fees on larger jobs add to this.

• Sorting and recognizing metal types
• Lifting and loading safely
• Negotiating fair prices
• Basic record keeping

• Many states and cities regulate scrap dealers, so check for licenses, registration and record-keeping rules
• Rules on buying catalytic converters, copper wire and utility materials can be strict, so check your state's laws
• Stolen property risk, so always check who you are buying from and keep records
• Appliances with refrigerant may need special handling under EPA rules, so check before taking them
• Prices change with the market, so keep a cushion for slow months
• Vehicle and commercial use insurance, plus heavy lifting injury risk

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on your vehicle, loading gear and insurance. Treat this as an estimate and price your own setup before you buy anything.

Monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on how much material you collect and the prices yards pay. It is an estimate, and you should expect to put in at least 10 hours a week.

Check state and city licensing, registration and record-keeping rules for scrap dealers, plus strict rules on catalytic converters and copper wire. Also check EPA handling for appliances with refrigerant, and insurance for vehicle use.