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Choosing a Route

Why should metal not go in your general waste bin?

Short answer: Metal in the general bin usually ends up in landfill or mixed processing where it is hard to recover, it can damage collection equipment, and some metal items carry safety risks such as sharp edges or hazardous contents, whereas a dedicated route recovers the metal and keeps it in use, which is why sorting even small amounts of metal out is worthwhile.

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Why recovery is difficult from mixed waste

Metal mixed with general rubbish is hard to separate efficiently, so much of it is lost to landfill instead of being recycled.

Why safety matters too

Sharp edges, heavy pieces and hazardous contents can injure collection workers, which is one reason many councils restrict what goes in the bin.

What to do instead

Keep a small box or bucket for metal offcuts and small items, and take them to a collection point or sell them when it fills up.

How ScrapTrade Fits In

ScrapTrade gives metal a proper route back into use, and pays you for it when the quantity is worthwhile.

Selling is one good route among several. When it is the right one, ScrapTrade offers verified buyers, transparent weighing and escrow-protected payments.

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