Scrap metal can quickly pile up with home renovation projects, auto repairs, construction jobs, and more. While some metal is recyclable, other types of scrap may be too bulky or hazardous to throw in the trash.

Getting rid of scrap metal doesn't have to be a hassle, though. This guide will outline the best practices for Genesee County, MI, residents to find affordable scrap metal handling through recycling, junk removal services, donations, and more.

Junk Removal and Scrap Metal Hauling

For large volumes of scrap metal, junk removal companies like Absolute Hauling & Services offer the most convenient disposal. They provide curbside collection or on-site cleanup of any metal items or debris.

This includes:

• Scrap from construction
• Renovation
• Auto repair
• Old appliances/electronics
• And more

Professional haulers have the equipment and team to efficiently clear out scrap metal and take it directly to recycling facilities or landfills. Junk removal is the quickest way to clear clutter while responsibly disposing of scrap. Scheduling scrap mental handling is as simple as contacting companies for estimates based on volume and types of metal to be removed.

Drop-Off Recycling Centers

The easiest way to get rid of smaller amounts of scrap metal is to take it to a local drop-off recycling center. Small metal items like aluminum cans, copper pipes, and steel beams can be placed in designated bins at the facility. Call ahead to check what metals they accept and any quantity restrictions.

Using a drop-off recycling center is a fast, affordable option for do-it-yourselfers with a small load of scrap. However, drop-off centers usually don't accept certain items like:

• Vehicle parts
• Appliances
• Mixed metal debris

Other options will be required for larger loads, more specialized metal items, or removal services. Drop-off recycling is best reserved for occasional small loads of common scrap metals.

Metal Recycling Centers

For do-it-yourselfers with a large load of scrap metal, metal recycling centers pay cash for drop-off loads. Public recycling centers and scrap yards accept:

• Metal items
• Vehicles
• Appliances
• Mixed debris

Recycling centers weigh your drop-off load and provide cash payment based on daily metal value rates.

This is a profitable option if you have metal to spare. But you'll need to haul the material yourself and may have to wait around during unloading. Recycling centers have strict policies on what metals they accept, so call ahead to see if they'll take your specific items.

Donation Pickup for Appliances and Vehicles

Some types of metal hold reuse value for others in need. Donating functional appliances, electronics, and vehicles to charitable organizations is a responsible way to clear out usable metal items.

Appliance and electronic donors like Habitat for Humanity ReStore accept select items for resale or scrap value. Car donation charities can take your used vehicle and handle scrapping it. When you connect with the charity, ask about fees and coordinate pickup or drop-off logistics.

Safe Handling of Hazardous Scrap Metal

Hazardous materials include specific items, such as:

• Lead pipes
• Gasoline tanks
• Appliances with coolant
• Vehicle parts require special handling

These items cannot simply be tossed in the trash. Contact your county or city household hazardous waste department for proper disposal options.

Some waste management companies also handle hazardous metal removal, providing certified transportation and disposal. When dealing with dangerous scrap, safety should be the top priority. Follow local hazardous waste guidelines strictly.

Request an estimate from Absolute Hauling and Services for scrap metal handling at your convenience.

Safely disposing of scrap metal requires planning, whether cleaning out old appliances, gutting a kitchen remodel, or junking an old car. Following these best practices based on your metal type and volume will ensure your scrap ends up in the right place.

For convenient scrap metal handling on your schedule, reach out for an estimate for professional hauling through Absolute Hauling & Services.