By the Numbers

I remember when I first started out I was always curious as to what the benefit of breaking something all the way down versus selling as is to scrap yard. it was brought to my attention I can be a little "blunt" ( the real word used was not appropriate) towards newcomers.

So in the spirit of giving back I thought I would start a thread that explains the numbers of breakdown vs non breakdown.

The first up is transformers.

Starting items and weight.
5 transformers
4@ 93 lbs each
1@ 118 lbs
Total weight 490 lbs
Current price per lb for me .12
Total value $58.80

Each 93 lb had 18 lbs #2 copper
The 118 lb had 23 lbs #2 copper
( These are pretty old so I think they are a higher yield than newer ones )

Total yield
395 lbs steel @ .06 lb = $23.70
95 lbs #2 copper @ 2.45 lb = 232.75
Total Weight 490 lbs
Total Value $256.45

Now it seems a no-brainer would be to tear it apart. When you look a little closer it might change your mind.

Breakdown Value $256.45
Investment for Items $14.50
Gas and time for pick up $27.75
Payroll for breakdown $58.80
Gas and time for yard run $ 39.90
Total expense $170.95

Profit = $ 115.50

Profit pays insurance, future vehicle repair cost, health insurance ( thanks O Care ), keeping lights on, and quite a few other things.

With this I have gathered it makes total sense to break it down if you are a one man show, but it makes sense to leave as is if you have to figure in payroll and the myriad of other expenses.



The next installment will be on power supplies!