time to toughen up

Don't panic if scrap prices go down somewhat, either. The important factor is the relative value factor. For instance - How much gas will that ton of iron buy now. You may be getter fewer dollars but more "gas per ton" than at the higher scrap price. Speculation isn't necessarily good or bad. Learn to read the market and make your best guess.

Along with what olddude said, find a way to be different from the others. Stand out. Make yourself known. If you just follow the crowd, nobody will tell you from all the other scrap dealers (good and bad) out there.

They say you only have one chance to make a first impression, but if you treat every chance as though is was your first you are going to look that much more impressive.

Professional looking adds, answer the phone like you mean business("Hello, this is________."), be on time and ready to do what you said you will do, firm handshake, clean and organized, agree on compensation before starting,complete job in time frame outlined and leave it looking better then you found it.

Originally Posted by olddude

I spent the last couple of days stripping 28 Ga computer wire with my thumb nail, only got about 5 lbs. but thats 5 Lbs I didnt have a couple of days ago.
just mi .02

That's pretty hardcore. I know I'm not out there doing that.