A good business plan is needed for those of us up north that scrap year round full time. There are three priorities in the winter with my strategy. First is preparing metal for when prices are good. This is when I do the majority of my torching because there is less risk of fires and burning is a pleasant activity on a cold day. This is when #1 and #2 piles are created. Second is maintenance of tools and equipment, building trailers and other items making life easier in nice weather, and research. This is a great time to shop for equipment as well with less competition and sellers that need to move stuff. If machinery will start in the cold you can count on it later in the year. A lot of time is spent on the forum refining my skills and strategies. Last is PR. Since many rural individuals tend to stay close to home at this time of year, it is easy to introduce myself and find out more about my neighbors.
During good weather I like to haul as fast as possible when prices are good. Therefore all of my nonferrous is stockpiled to be sorted during the winter. Four years ago I hauled as much during the cold months as I did during the warm months because the prices were good. Since then I have followed this seasonal business plan. The key is to plan ahead for lean times.
Bookmarks