Scrap Yard

The true "bulk buyers" in the industry are probably out of your league for the time being, unless you've got ~$500,000+ (US) cash, to purchase material. Not to mention the customer base to buy it from; this takes time. I would suggest finding the biggest and best scrap processing facility in your area and getting a price list. 1st know what you can sell it for, next deduct what you need to make to be successful at this endeavor (i.e. expenses, help, equipment, TRANSPORTATION), then make a bank withdraw and start buying locally. Scrappers are loyal, build a customer base. All the while develop a relationship with the local government and be a good corporate citizen. People have a bad view of the industry and panic when they hear a new "junk yard" is opening up in town. As for strategy, work primarily with lower grade material, less risk per dollar invested. Don't turn down anything, but don't just pile up copper in the corner hoping to play the market. That is a game no one wins. Try to sell the expensive stuff as soon as you buy it, take the money and run. Try to build your business on the cheaper stuff, the price is more stable so you have more time to do your value added work.