Sorting for Value: How Separating Materials Impacts Your Payout

When it comes to scrap, most businesses believe they see the best returns by maximizing the volume of the metals they recycle. After all, the more you scrap, the more you earn.

While this is certainly true, WV Cashin reminds you that how you scrap is just as important as how much you scrap.

In fact, in some respects, it may even be more important.

By “how,” we’re referring to sorting—separating your scrap metals as opposed to bringing in loads of mixed materials. And while not sorting your recyclable metals might save time, it can also cost you.

That’s because mixing metals often leads to lower payouts. Understanding why can help you get the most money from every load.

Why Sorting Matters

The benefits of separating recyclable metals lie in the fact that different metals have different values and result in different payout amounts. For example, copper will be worth more than aluminum or steel.

If you keep these metals mixed in a load you may miss out on getting the premium prices for the more valuable metals. That’s because when materials aren’t sorted, they require more labor and time to process. Plus, with a mixed load, the price paid out often gets downgraded to a lower-value category.

For instance, a dumpster that is predominantly steel but also includes a smaller quantity of copper may be processed at the steel rate—negating the extra dollars that could have been realized had the copper been recycled separately.

When materials are clean and separated, they can be processed easier and faster, and you’ll get in and out of the yard more quickly.  And, most importantly, you’ll get full value for each type of metal you scrap.

Remember this simple formula when you scrap: Better sorting = better pricing + faster turnaround.

How to Sort Materials

To get the most money for your scrap, know your metals and separate them accordingly:

• Copper (wire, piping) is a high-value metal and should be separated out.
• Aluminum (siding, patio furniture) is lightweight but valuable, though less valuable than copper. It also should be separated out to ensure you get the most money for your aluminum.
• Steel and Iron (structural materials, equipment) will likely be the most common metals you scrap. Sorting these out of a load should be less of a priority as they have a lower value, but they typically will account for the most volume.

Remember, mixed loads (a combination of metals and other materials) can result in lower payouts. To get the most from your scrap, don’t mix!

Simple Ways to Improve Your Scrap Sorting Process
Sorting may seem like a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be—if you follow a few basic steps.

Set up designated bins or areas for different materials. “Presorting” your metals on an ongoing basis can make recycling easier—and more lucrative—when you transport them to the scrap yard for processing.

Train your crews on basic material identification. Ensure your people know the difference between the types of recyclable metals and put in place the right processes to help them easily sort them.

Separate materials during the job, not after. Incorporate sorting into your workflow and you’ll save time and hassle when it’s time to scrap.

Keep high-value metals (like copper) isolated. Do all you can to prevent your most valuable metals, such as copper and brass, from being mixed in with less-valuable metal, like steel.

Remember, keeping your recyclable metals sorted isn’t complicated. It just requires a little planning and discipline.

Benefits Beyond Higher Payouts

In addition to realizing more money, don’t forget the other benefits of sorting your recyclable metals.

You’ll save time with faster drop-offs and more efficient processing of your load.

Plus, when you recycle regularly, you can have cleaner, safer facilities and job sites.

And when your place of business is cleaner and less cluttered, you’ll have more room to work and be better able to keep track of your equipment, materials, and returns.

How WV Cashin Helps You Get the Most Value

Located in Nitro, just three miles off the I-64 exit, WV Cashin is your local, convenient partner for all your scrapping and recycling needs.

Our knowledgeable team can help you identify the best ways to scrap and offer guidance on how to sort for better returns.

We also pride ourselves on the fast, efficient processing of every load of scrap and we’re commitment to paying market rates for recyclable metals. You can check current prices here.

Also, when you enroll in WV Cashin’s Rewards Program and start scrapping, you can benefit even more! You’ll earn points you can redeem for an array of great prizes.

Smart Sorting Adds Up

Sorting your scrap metals may seem like an extra step—but it’s also a smart business decision. And even small improvements in your sorting practices can add up to consistently better payouts over time.

Bring your materials to WV Cashin or schedule a bulk pick-up at your job site. We’re ready to help and to answer your questions about scrap metals.

We invite you to see what your scrap is worth when it’s sorted properly