Scrap Metal Prices Per Pound in Missouri

Missouri, known for its rich history and diverse landscapes, is also home to a thriving scrap metal industry. Whether you're a seller looking to cash in on your unused metal items or a buyer searching for valuable materials, Missouri offers a robust marketplace for scrap metal transactions. In this article, we'll provide you with an overview of the process for selling and buying scrap metal, highlight a couple of prominent scrap yards in the state, and discuss how Missouri's scrap metal industry compares to other major cities in the United States.

The Process of Selling Scrap Metal

1. Collect Your Scrap: Start by gathering scrap metal from various sources, such as old appliances, automotive parts, construction materials, or even discarded household items. Organize your metals by type (ferrous or non-ferrous) for easier handling and pricing.
2. Categorize Your Metal: It's essential to distinguish between ferrous (iron-based) and non-ferrous metals (like aluminum, copper, brass, etc.) because scrap yards generally pay higher prices for non-ferrous metals.
3. Locate a Local Scrap Yard: Missouri boasts a plethora of scrap yards where you can trade your metal items. Two noteworthy options in the state include PSC Metals in St. Louis and Garden Street Iron & Metal in Kansas City. These facilities accept a wide variety of scrap metals and offer competitive rates based on market trends.
4. Prepare Your Scrap: Clean and sort your scrap metal by removing any non-metal materials, like plastics or rubber, which may lower its value. Some scrap yards may require you to provide a valid identification, so ensure you have this with you.
5. Request a Quote: Before heading to the scrap yard, it's wise to call ahead and get a preliminary quote for your materials. Scrap metal prices can fluctuate daily, so this step helps you manage your expectations.
6. Transportation: Load your scrap metal into your vehicle and ensure it's safely secured for transport. Most scrap yards have designated areas for unloading your materials.
7. Weighing and Payment: Upon arrival at the scrap yard, your materials will be weighed, and you'll receive payment based on the type and weight of the metal. Payment is usually made on the spot in cash or check.

The Process of Buying Scrap Metal

1. Assess Your Requirements: Determine the specific type and quantity of scrap metal you need for your project or business.
2. Research Scrap Yards: Explore local scrap yards in Missouri that offer the type of metal you're seeking. You can utilize online directories, read reviews, or seek recommendations from fellow businesses.
3. Visit the Scrap Yard: Go to your selected scrap yard to examine the available metal and negotiate the price. Always inquire about any minimum purchase requirements or special offers.
4. Arrange Transportation: Once you've made your purchase, arrange for the transportation of your scrap metal to your intended location securely.

Missouri's Vibrant Scrap Metal Industry

Missouri's scrap metal industry benefits from the state's diverse industrial base and well-developed infrastructure. The presence of major cities like St. Louis and Kansas City further contributes to the state's prominence in the scrap metal trading sector.

Although Missouri may not be as well-known as some major U.S. cities like New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago in the scrap metal industry, its strategic location in the Midwest and proximity to important markets make it a notable player in the field.

Laws Guiding The Sale of Scrap Metals in Missouri

We have studied the laws and regulations on buying and selling scrap metal in Missouri and summarized everything that you must know before going to the scrap yard. Firstly, be aware that a detailed record of the transaction will be kept for at least three years after the date of the transaction. This record must include a copy of your driving license so do not forget to bring one. Seem obvious but so many people get turned away because they have forgotten their license. The record will also contain video surveillance of the transaction including the material and you. To help law enforcement combat the selling of scrap metal there is a two-week tag and hold that they can enforce while conducting an investigation.