Business Advice

I want to recycle electronics and appliances for a profit to supplement my income. My focus is mainly precious metals (or non-ferrets). I am going to find some landfill and junkyards in my area (Alabama) for scraps. But my question is should i use ebay and crag'slist to find my materials. I am going to work out of an apartment, does that affect how I run this business? My plan was to invest say 300-500 hundred bucks to get my business running. Is it possible to run a scrapping business like this primarily through the internet? I know of sites like GovDeals and Freecycle. Can I make decent enough money just recycling electronics and appliances?

Yes but to be competitive you will have to re-sell items that have better than scrap value..........I buy lots of computer equipment and go through them and re-sell the better stuff while scrapping the non-working or older stuff..........This also allows me to pay a little more for certain items which keeps me more competive especially when it comes to GovDeals...........Craigslist is also a great tool.....I end up with alot of scrap off there as well as re-selling dual core and better computers.............GOOD LUCK this is not an easy job..........I do this full time and when I really get in a groove I work 12-15 hour days.....Obviously being my own boss somedays I might work 2-3 hours but to make serious money (Like enough to live on, pay bills, etc.) it will take long hours and dedication...............GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Read read read the old threads. Seriously you need to take your time and break down a lot of stuff so you will know what to expect and it will teach you what is worth the effort for you. In the mean time save up what you have until you know what to do with it. Read the sticky thread first then the buyers threads then start reading what is interesting to you. Take your time and make more money.

Don't forget to check to make sure if you can sell it for more than scrap. (I think Mike above was saying the same thing) Mike

ditto ditto ditto BUT Stay away from ebay to BUY...Ebay is for selling! your local yard is a good place to sell steel, tin, copper that will accumulate quickly. Sort out any green circuit boards, and start identifying them using this forum as a guide. Don't spend ANY money on anything that is not a tool yet. Harbor Freight is your friend, so are mechanics gloves if you're breaking down ewaste.

The fast and easy way to get started is to ask friends and family for any old electronic items that they would like recycled. VCR's, computers, toasters, anything! you'd be amazed what your family has in the garage or basement, and they'll be happy to support you in your new project.

Anything that sells for more than scrap, should be sold for more than scrap! Maximize your profit margins!

And finally, the guys are right. Read read read read read.....the knowledge I've gain here is free, and Priceless! It changed my perception of the world around me....now all I see is $$$$$$$$$ everywhere I look!

[B]"
My focus is mainly precious metals (or non-ferrets). "
Ferrets pay good money:lol:

Uber tip: wear a dust mask and gloves (noted above) breaking down ewaste, you wont believe how much dust is in these things (old viruses and pet dander ect..) just protect yourself and good luck!

STOP, STOP, Stop; Don't start buying stuff that your going to scrap, Too much free stuuf to be had. Keep your eyes open and talk to everyone you know about what you want to do. You'll get so much stuff you'll out grow your appartment.

Agreed with the above. Money spent on tools is a great investment. I don't know what you have, but with that budget, you can get a great cordless drill and some other great hand tools. Even if you decide to give up scrapping, you will always use those tools.

you are working out of an apartment? that might be a good start, as long as you stay organized and move the stuff. good luck