FEB 06, 2026
An increasing number of people are starting to recognize the benefits of recycling items like leftover steel, aluminum cans, and copper wires. Through scrap metal recycling in McDonough, we can reduce what goes to the landfill, earn some money, and save energy used to produce new materials. If you’re getting started with recycling scrap metal, your goal should be maximizing your payout.
At RCM Recycling, we’re here to help you make the most out of your scrap metal and take the hassle out of the whole process. But how do you properly prepare scrap metal for recycling? And why does preparation matter? In this post, we’ll discuss how to prepare your scrap metal before going to the scrap yard.
The first step is to sort your metals by type. Scrap yards pay different rates for ferrous metals and non-ferrous metals. Non-ferrous metals are worth more, so keeping them separate prevents them from being downgraded to a lower-paying category.
Next, remove any non-metal attachments. Plastic, rubber, wood, insulation, and glass can lower the value of your scrap or even cause the yard to reject certain items. For example, wires with plastic insulation, appliances with plastic panels, or metal frames with rubber components may be accepted, but you’ll get paid less if they aren’t cleaned. Stripping insulation from copper wire or removing plastic covers from aluminum pieces can increase your payout.
Cleaning your scrap metal is another important step in preparing your scrap metal. While scrap yards don’t expect metals to be spotless, removing excessive dirt, grease, oil, or food residue helps classify the material as “clean scrap,” which often pays more. Rinsing items like aluminum cans or scraping off heavy grime from metal parts can make a noticeable difference in price.
Disassembling large items can also be beneficial. Appliances, electronics, and machinery contain multiple types of metal. Take the time to separate copper wiring, aluminum components, and steel frames. This allows you to sell each material at its appropriate rate. Even small amounts of high-value metal, such as copper coils or brass fittings, can add meaningful value when separated properly.
Before heading to the scrap yard, check local rules and scrap yard policies. Some facilities require identification, limit the types of metal they accept, or have specific guidelines for items like electronics, batteries, or appliances with refrigerants. Call ahead or review the yard’s website to prevent wasted trips and ensure you arrive prepared.
Finally, organize and transport your scrap safely. Use sturdy containers, bins, or buckets to keep different metals separated during transport. Secure loose items to prevent shifting or falling during transit. Not only does this protect you and your vehicle, but it also makes unloading faster and easier once you arrive at the scrap yard. Some scrap metal buyers may offer pickup services for large loads or heavy items, which can save you time and reduce the risk of injury.
Proper preparation not only maximizes your payout but also contributes to a hassle-free recycling process. If you’ve got scrap metal in your household or garage, we invite you to choose RCM Recycling. We’re a top-rated scrap metal recycling company that accepts a wide range of materials and offers competitive prices for both ferrous and non-ferrous scrap metal. In addition, we provide convenient pickups, eco-friendly disposal, and sustainable recycling. Contact us today for more information about our recycling process or what we can offer.
