Recycling metal isn’t just about the payout; it’s one of the most effective ways to support a circular economy. Unlike plastic, metal can be recycled indefinitely without losing its quality.
- Environmental Impact: Mining raw ores is energy-intensive and damaging. Recycling steel, for example, uses 75% less energy than creating it from scratch.
- Local Economy: Epping’s industrial precincts are home to state-of-the-art facilities that process materials for local manufacturing.
- Instant Space: Clear out your driveway or job site and get paid on the spot.
What Can You Actually Scrap?
Not all metals are created equal. Scrapyards generally categorize your haul into two groups:
| Metal Type | Common Examples | Value Level |
| Non-Ferrous | Copper (pipes/wires), Brass, Aluminum, Lead | High (Doesn’t stick to a magnet) |
| Ferrous | Steel, Iron, Old Appliances, Car Parts | Low (Sticks to a magnet) |
Pro Tip: If a magnet sticks to it, it’s likely steel or iron. If the magnet falls off, you’ve likely found a non-ferrous metal like copper or aluminum, which fetches a much higher price per kilogram.
How to Get the Best Price at an Epping Yard
Prices for scrap metal fluctuate daily based on global market demands (LME rates). To ensure you get the best “bang for your buck,” follow these steps:
- Clean and Sort: Don’t mix your expensive copper with cheap steel. If you bring a pre-sorted load, the yard doesn’t have to charge you for the labor of separating it.
- Strip the Wires: Bright orange copper wire is worth significantly more if the plastic insulation is removed.
- Check for Contaminants: Remove as much plastic, wood, or rubber from the metal as possible.
- Bring ID: In Victoria, it is a legal requirement to provide valid photo identification (like a Driver’s License) when selling scrap metal. Most reputable yards in Epping also use electronic transfers rather than cash to comply with anti-theft regulations.
Finding the Right Scrapyard
Epping is a prime location for metal recycling due to its proximity to major transport links. Look for a yard that offers:
- Public Weighbridges: For accurate measurement of heavy loads.
- Bin Services: If you have a massive commercial cleanup, many Epping yards will drop off a skip bin and collect it once it’s full.
- Specialized Processing: Some yards specialize in car recycling (end-of-life vehicles), while others focus on industrial construction waste.