If you decide to start collecting scrap metal so you can resell it then you are in for quite a journey. While you are collecting old metal goods, you will come across many different types of metal. It is a lot of fun to learn more about the characteristics of different metals and to discover how to identify them. As a scrap metal reseller, you are likely most interested in scrap metal types that are the most valuable because this will allow you to make a lot more money from a single load of waste metal.

Let’s take a look at the most valuable scrap metal types that you should keep an eye out for if you want to make the highest profits from metal recycling.

Copper

Copper is a pretty common metal since it is used for plumbing and wiring. But did you know that this metal is sought after in junk yards? Copper can last indefinitely and can be smelted over and over again without affecting the integrity of the metal. The metal is also virtually indestructible since it is tarnish-resistant. Because of these qualities, this is one of the highest prized scrap metals you can possibly collect. You should definitely keep an eye out for these metals with their reddish-orange sheen because they are most likely to yield high profits.

Brass

A lot of old decor items were made from brass. This metal was pretty common in cookware, wall ornaments, cutlery, door hinges, candle sticks, and decor items like vases. It can be tricky to identify brass because it can look like gold when clean and it is often mistaken for copper. Brass metals are also one of the most expensive scrap metals and can help you get a good profit.

Silver

Scrap metal companies often pay quite a bit for silver. In some cases, you can even get higher prices for old silver items than you would at jewelry stores or pawn shops. You can find this metal in the form of old jewellery, silverware, medals, and antique decor accessories like vases. 

Aliminium

Aluminium is also a great metal to collect and resell because it is easy to come by and it usually sells at a good rate. This metal can be obtained by collecting softdrink cans, car rims, old electronic devices like computers, bike frames, and even certain window and door frames. 

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is also a very common metal but it has a high resell price compared to general iron. The metal is sought after because it can be recycled to manufacture new goods. It is also prized because it is naturally tarnished and rust-resistant. Any goods made from stainless steel will stay in great shape for many years to come. The metal price is also driven because this metal contains 10% or more chrome or chromium. 

Stainless steel is a pretty tricky metal to collect because scrap metal companies often have different values for different grades of metal. Stainless steel is made of iron, chrome, and nickel molybdenum. The more iron these metals have, the lower their going rate will be. 

On the other hand, metal is pretty easy to find since all sorts of homeware items like cutlery, appliances, machines, parts, tools, furniture, and decor items are made from this sought-after metal. 

While it is always good to keep an eye out for valuable metals, you shouldn’t simply dismiss common metals. These cheaper metals can also be a good source of income. It is also a good idea to use a good scrap metal company like Danny Scrap Metal whenever you are selling off a pile of old metal. This company will give you the highest market-related price and they are happy to accept any type of metal you might come across.