A scrap yard is a place where old metal is collected, sorted, weighed and sent for recycling or further processing. Iron, copper, brass and aluminium are normally kept separate because each metal has a different value.
What happens when scrap reaches a yard
- The material is checked. The buyer looks at the type of metal and whether other material is mixed with it.
- Different metals are separated. Copper, brass, aluminium and iron should not be treated as one material.
- The scrap is weighed. The weight is used with the agreed rate to work out the amount.
- The material is prepared for the next buyer or recycler. Some scrap may be sorted, cut or grouped before it moves on.
Why sorting matters
A mixed pile can contain metal, plastic, rubber, wood and other items. When the useful metal is already separated, it is easier to identify and weigh. This can also make it easier for the seller to understand how the final price was calculated.
Common metals found at scrap yards
- Iron and steel: old frames, rods, sheets, machinery parts and household metal.
- Copper: wire, pipe, motor winding and electrical parts.
- Brass: taps, fittings, valves and some hardware.
- Aluminium: utensils, sections, sheets, cans and some appliance parts.
- Stainless steel: kitchen items, tanks, fittings and selected machine parts.
What to do before taking scrap to a yard
- Separate valuable metals from iron.
- Keep paper and plastic away from metal.
- Remove personal papers, SIM cards and storage devices from old electronics.
- Ask the buyer how each type will be priced.
- Check the weighing before the sale is completed.
How the price is worked out
Many scrap items are bought by weight. If the agreed rate is ₹30/kg and the material weighs 40 kg, the basic amount is ₹1,200. Copper, brass and other higher-value metals should be calculated separately instead of being included with iron.
Common questions
Does every scrap yard buy the same items?
No. Some yards focus on metal, while others may also accept paper, plastic, batteries or electronic scrap.
Can mixed scrap get a different price?
Yes. Mixed material may need more sorting, and different parts may have different values.
Should I ask the rate before weighing?
Yes. Knowing the rate and watching the weight makes the final calculation easier to understand.