You probably didn't have to remove all the non metallic stuff, especially if your yard accepts printers. The first time I ever went to the scrap yard I did the same thing. Then I realized I could've left all the junk on the chairs and strollers and got the same price per lb.

In my experience it's hard to get the good stuff without taking the steel. Most people don't know how to differentiate metals and will just call you when they have anything. Those that do know how to tell the difference usually won't give you anything if you're too picky. Usually anybody that can tell the difference between copper and brass and steel will be more inclined to give it to you if you also take all the junk they don't wanna haul to the scrap yard.