Selling used items for cash through scrapping has become popular as a way of recycling materials to obtain cash. From metals and electronics, countless household or industrial items are sold at scrap yards or recycling centers. Here is a glimpse of the most common items that can be scrapped for money, their values, and getting started in scrapping.

1. Scrap Metals

One of the most lucrative ways to earn money from scrapping is through various types of metals. Metals are in high demand and can be found in many everyday items.

a. Copper

Copper is one of the most valuable scrap metals. It can be found in electrical wiring, plumbing pipes, and electronics. It is often graded by quality, with pure copper fetching the highest price.

b. Aluminum

Aluminum is lightweight but widely used, making it a commonly scrapped metal. You can find aluminum in soda cans, window frames, and vehicle parts. Though its price is lower than copper, it’s easily available in large quantities.

c. Steel

Steel is a common metal found in old appliances, cars, and construction materials. Though it’s less valuable per pound compared to copper and aluminum, the sheer volume of steel available makes it worth collecting.

d. Brass

Brass, a mix of copper and zinc, is often found in plumbing fixtures, door handles, and decorative pieces. It’s another high-value scrap metal that’s worth salvaging.

2. Electronics (E-Waste)

Electronic waste, or e-waste, is another growing source of scrap. Many old electronic devices contain valuable metals and materials that can be recycled for cash.

a. Old Computers and Laptops

Inside old computers and laptops, you’ll find components like motherboards, processors, and hard drives that contain metals like gold, silver, and copper. These precious metals can be extracted and sold.

b. Smartphones and Tablets

Like computers, smartphones and tablets contain small quantities of valuable metals. They may also have lithium-ion batteries, which can be recycled for money.

c. Televisions

Older televisions, especially those with cathode-ray tubes (CRT), contain copper wiring and other components that can be scrapped. Modern flat-screen TVs may also have valuable parts inside.

3. Automobile Parts

Vehicles are an excellent source of scrap materials. Even old, non-working cars can be stripped for parts and materials that can be sold.

a. Engines and Transmissions

Engine and transmission parts contain metals such as steel, aluminum, and sometimes copper, all of which can be sold to scrap yards for decent returns.

b. Car Batteries

Car batteries are a popular item to scrap due to the lead content inside. Many recycling centers will pay for old car batteries, which can also be used to produce new batteries.

c. Tires

While tires themselves aren’t typically sold for scrap, they can be recycled for materials like rubber mulch or used in construction. Some scrap yards may pay for old tires depending on the material.

4. Household Appliances

Common household appliances are a treasure trove of scrap-worthy materials. Here are some of the most profitable ones.

a. Refrigerators

Old refrigerators contain a lot of steel, aluminum, and sometimes copper wiring, making them a great source of scrap. Be sure to properly dispose of refrigerant gas before scrapping.

b. Washing Machines and Dryers

Washing machines and dryers are large and full of scrap metal, especially steel. Additionally, they may contain copper wiring and aluminum parts.

c. Microwaves

Microwaves contain small amounts of metals and electronic components that can be scrapped for money. Though they are lighter than refrigerators or washing machines, they are still worth considering.

5. Plumbing Materials

Plumbing materials, especially pipes and fixtures, can be profitable when scrapped.

a. Copper Pipes

Copper pipes, often found during home renovations or demolitions, are highly valuable. Ensure the pipes are free from contaminants like solder or other metals to maximize the return.

b. Brass Faucets and Fittings

Older homes often have brass faucets and fittings, which can be removed and scrapped for a good price due to their brass content.

6. Old Tools and Equipment

Broken or outdated tools and equipment can be scrapped for the metals they contain.

a. Power Tools

Power tools often contain copper wiring and aluminum or steel components, making them good candidates for scrapping.

b. Old Farm Equipment

If you have access to old or rusted farm equipment, these items are often full of scrap metal, especially steel, and can be sold for profit.

7. Miscellaneous Items

There are many other items that may surprise you in their potential for scrap value.

a. Bicycles

Bicycles contain steel, aluminum, and sometimes titanium, which can be sold as scrap. Even rusty old bikes have value at a scrapyard.

b. Pots and Pans

Old cookware made of metal can be sold for scrap, especially if they are made of aluminum or stainless steel.

c. Cans and Bottles

Though it may not seem like much, collecting aluminum cans and glass bottles can add up over time. Many states offer cash returns for recycling cans and bottles.

How to Get Started with Scrapping

a. Research Local Scrap Yards

Find out which scrap yards are closest to you and which materials they accept. Prices can vary, so it’s worth comparing offers.

b. Sort and Separate Materials

To get the best price for your scrap, sort and separate different types of materials. For example, copper, aluminum, and steel should be placed in separate piles.

c. Follow Safety Guidelines

When scrapping, always follow safety precautions, especially when dealing with electronic waste or appliances that contain hazardous materials.