Free Recycling Advice
Free Scrap Metal Recycling Advice in Brisbane
Not sure what to do with your scrap metal? You are not alone. A lot of people come to us not quite knowing what they have, whether it has any value or what the right thing to do with it is. That is completely fine. We are happy to help, free of charge and with no obligation whatsoever.
No Question Is Too Small
Over nearly 40 years in the industry, we have heard just about every question you can imagine. From tradies wondering whether their mixed load is worth sorting, to households clearing out a shed full of old metal, to businesses trying to work out the best way to manage their scrap. Whatever your situation, our team is here to point you in the right direction.
We do not charge for advice and we do not pressure anyone into doing business with us. If we can help you, we will tell you how. If what you have is not something we can take, we will tell you that too and try to point you somewhere that can assist.
What Kind of Questions Can We Help With?
Here are some of the things people commonly ask us about:
Is this metal recyclable and does it have any value?
Most metals can be recycled and many do have value. The most common metals we buy include steel, iron, copper, aluminium, brass, stainless steel and lead. If you are not sure what you have, give us a call or bring it in and we will take a look. We will give you an honest answer on the spot.
How do I sort my scrap to get the best price?
The simple rule is to keep different metals separate from each other where you can. For example, keep copper away from steel and aluminium away from brass. The cleaner and better sorted your load, the better the price you will receive. If sorting feels overwhelming, just bring it in as is and we will help you work through it.
What is the difference between ferrous and non-ferrous metal?
Ferrous metals contain iron. Steel and cast iron are the most common examples. Non-ferrous metals do not contain iron and include copper, aluminium, brass, stainless steel and lead. Non-ferrous metals are generally worth more per kilogram but we buy both and are happy to explain what you have when you come in.
Can I bring in a mixed load or does it need to be separated?
You can absolutely bring in a mixed load. We would rather you bring it in than leave it sitting in your shed or sending it to landfill. That said, if you can do even a basic sort before you arrive you will generally get a better return. Our team can help you sort on arrival if needed.
What do I need to bring with me when I drop off?
You will need a valid photo ID showing your name and address, such as a driver’s licence. If you are selling scrap generated from business activity, you will also need your ABN. Without a valid ABN we are required by law to withhold 48.5 percent of the total value of the transaction.
Is it worth my while to make the trip for a small amount of scrap?
That depends on what you have and how far you are travelling. Give us a call before you make the trip and we will give you an honest assessment. We would rather save you the drive than have you come in for something that is not going to be worth your time.
What happens to my scrap after I drop it off?
Once your scrap is weighed and graded at our Murarrie depot, it is sorted and processed before being sent to smelters where it is melted down and turned into new raw materials. Recycling metal uses significantly less energy than producing it from scratch, so every load you bring in is genuinely making a difference environmentally.
I have a large amount of scrap, what are my options?
If you have a large volume of scrap we can either arrange a collection from your property or you can deliver it to our depot. For very large loads we recommend calling ahead so we can make sure we are set up to receive you efficiently. We work with commercial and industrial clients regularly and are well equipped to handle significant volumes.
My business generates metal waste regularly, what should I do?
Our regular collection service is probably the right fit for you. We supply bins in small, medium and large sizes, collect on a schedule that suits your business and pay you for your scrap each time we collect. It is a simple arrangement that keeps your site tidy and turns your waste into a reliable source of revenue. Give us a call to discuss the details.
I need products destroyed, can you help with that?
Yes we can. Our certified product destruction service is designed exactly for this situation. We destroy your goods at our Murarrie depot and provide you with a signed letter of destruction on company letterhead as your formal record. It is a straightforward process and the paperwork gives you the documentation you need for compliance, insurance or internal records. Get in touch to find out more.
If your question is not on this list, do not let that stop you. Just get in touch and we will do our best to help.
How to Get Advice
Getting in touch is easy. You can reach us in whichever way suits you best.
Call Us
Pick up the phone and give us a call during business hours. Our team is friendly, knowledgeable and happy to take the time to talk through your situation. Most questions can be answered in just a few minutes.
Send Us an Email
If you prefer to put your question in writing, send us an email and we will get back to you promptly. If it helps, include a photo of what you have and we can give you a more accurate answer straight away.
Come In and See Us
If you would rather talk face to face, come and visit us at our depot at 913 Lytton Road, Murarrie. Our team is on site Monday to Saturday and will be happy to take a look at what you have got and give you honest, practical advice on the spot.
We Have Seen It All
United Scrap Metal Traders has been buying and recycling scrap metal in Brisbane since 1987. That is a long time in the industry and it means our team has a depth of knowledge that is hard to find elsewhere. We can identify metals quickly, give you an honest assessment of what your scrap is worth and explain the recycling process in plain language.
We work with everyone from first timers clearing out a garage to large industrial businesses managing complex scrap streams. Whatever your situation, you will get the same straight answer from us.
Honest Advice, No Pressure
We want to be the kind of business that people feel comfortable calling, even if they are not sure whether they have anything worth selling. The recycling industry can feel a bit intimidating if you have not dealt with it before and we want to change that.
There is no catch here. We offer free advice because we believe it is the right way to do business and because we know that people who get good advice tend to come back. So give us a call, send us an email or drop in. We are happy to help.
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Get in Touch Today
Ready to organise a collection or want to discuss your scrap metal requirements? Contact us today. We are happy to assess your needs, answer your questions and put together an arrangement that works for your business.