Short answer: Staff look at what you unload, separate it by metal, check for contamination, hazardous items and non-metal parts, may use magnets and spark or analyser tools to identify metals and assign each group a grade and price, so a load that is already sorted and clean is checked quickly and priced well, whereas a mixed or dirty load takes longer and is priced lower.
Prefer not to drive? Compare offers from verified buyers who collect.
List Free →Visual and magnet checks
Staff identify the main metals quickly, often with a magnet.
Contamination
Attached steel, plastic, dirt and hazardous items are removed or deducted.
Grading
Each group is assigned a grade and a rate per kilogram or tonne.
How ScrapTrade Fits In
ScrapTrade buyers grade from your description and photos, then confirm on arrival.
A yard visit is simple once you know the steps. ScrapTrade is the alternative when you would rather have the buyer come to you, with transparent weighing and escrow-protected payments.
List or Find Scrap on ScrapTrade →Practical answers on what happens at a scrap yard, from the weighbridge and ID checks to payment and safety.