Gathering Scrap 101

Now that my jackpot find is about to run out, I am venturing into the world to find scrap for the first time. Here is what I have discovered on my own, but I need all the tips and advice I can get...

1. Post ads (is there a trick to standing out from all the other scrap ads)
2. Patrol curbs (are certain days designated for larger items)
3. Certain businesses might have good scrap (any advice on which ones and what to ask for)
4. Auctions (are certain types of auctions more suited to this purpose)
5. What other things should be done?



I am starting this as a hobby, having only a car to work with. If I earn enough profit, I will buy a pickup truck or cargo van to haul larger items and graduate from hobby to part time business. I can envision eventually having a nice cargo van with recycling art painted on the side, and driving to various businesses for routine pick-ups, graduating from part time business to full time business... "The recycling truck is coming by today. Lets have everything around back for him to pick up."

At first, it seems like a good idea to focus on air conditioners and other "treasure chest" items that yield high profit for their size, especially since I am stuck with a car at first. Is there any advice concerning this thought, such as specific items or size restrictions?

check township websites for big trash day, usually once a month as for businesses I would say anywhere that fixes something but just know if that business has been there a while it will most likely have a scrap guy already just ask for what you are looking for. as for ads I would be clear and professional think of a catchy title or something so they will remember you and don't be afraid to ask. the more you put your name out there the more people are likely to know it

All the info is here! Read and have fun!

If its during the day or early evening always knock on the door and ask, before talking, yes even if its on the curb, ive only been turned away once, and leave them your card. Ether way, be the scrap metal guy not the trash picker guy..just my 2cents