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Probably a question i should not ask but...

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  1. #1
    VERYOLDGUY started this thread.
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    Probably a question i should not ask but...

    I am just now really getting into this business. Although I do come from a manufacturing/engineering background and have some contacts in my regular job that will help.



    Before I ask this please keep in mind if you don't want to answer don't. I probably would not either.

    What kind of volume can I expect doing this part time?

    I know it depends on a lot of things, but what is realistic.
    Have a truck, small trailer, well populated area, don't mind hard work. Right now not a lot of storage room, but thinking about renting a self storage.
    You can make money 2 ways.
    1 - Do what others won't.
    2 - Do what others can't.


  2. #2
    MattInTheHat's Avatar
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    get a trailer, so when you bring a small load home, your can sort the tin right into it and not move it 1000 times

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  4. #3
    ryanw's Avatar
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    If it is part time, your limit is your space. I would designate a workspace, put in bins/buckets for sorting and storage, and see what's left over for you to move around in, and also to keep the stuff that you bring in.

    I have a a pickup and a small trailer, but 2100 square feet to work with. It's almost totally full all the time, but probably 60% of it is for storing for resale. Lack of space is always an issue it seems; no matter how much you have of it.

    MattInTheHat's suggestion is great too because tin builds up quick. You just have to be able to store it outside.

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  6. #4
    Ecycle Atlanta's Avatar
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    VOG: Such a difficult question to answer. My guess is that with your contacts, willingness to work and being in a populated area, you can expect more business than you can handle. To make this happen you also have to follow a few tried-and-true steps that will easily allow you to beat out your competition:

    1: get out of your comfort zone (everyone has one) and be willing to talk talk talk...to everyone you can. Cold call on businesses throughout your locality
    2: be clear and concise about what you do and how you can help someone
    3: slap a professional business card in every hand you shake. Usually I give out 2, one extra for them to give to a friend
    4: be profesional in your manners, dress, etc....break the mold of what people think a scrapper is like

    Personally, I concentrate on electronic recycling and it pays to wear a polo and khakis. I get high-end customers looking to dispose of "clean" equipment, which to me is where the good money is at. But I am also not afraid to get my hands dirty as I find myself up to my elbows in grease at times taking apart motors, etc. Read the forums and learn what you can, even from the cranky....err...experienced guys on here.


    Edit: I went from getting a few occasional computers each week to having a dozen contacts supplying me with a steady stream, plus what I get at garage sales and craigslist ads. Add to that the auctions I do and I have a 40-6 hour work week almost guaranteed.
    Last edited by Ecycle Atlanta; 05-16-2013 at 05:06 PM.

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  8. #5
    VERYOLDGUY started this thread.
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    Thanks guys, but as I explained this is not my first venture into this business, but the first time I have gotten serious about it.
    I have a trailer, space right now is my garage but I have lots of cheap self storage units avail. have the bins and barrels already.
    I guess I am looking for a range on what is possible short of opening an yard.

  9. #6
    VERYOLDGUY started this thread.
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    Serious thanks. That was what I was looking for.

  10. #7
    ryanw's Avatar
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    With a full garage open to work in, I would say a truck and trailer load of assorted appliances and ewaste per day should be easy to do.


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