Short answer: Work through one area at a time, set aside anything of sentimental or potential value first, then separate what is genuinely metal into copper and brass, aluminium, stainless steel and general steel, keep hazardous items out, and put anything you are unsure about aside for a buyer or valuer to look at, since a calm, orderly sort makes for a better price and fewer regrets.
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List Free →One area at a time
Starting with one room or one corner of the shed keeps the job manageable and stops things being mixed up.
Valuables and keepsakes first
Setting these aside before sorting scrap avoids the mistake of discarding something the family would have wanted.
Sort by metal
Copper and brass, aluminium, stainless and steel each in their own pile or box makes the final sale simpler and the price better.
How ScrapTrade Fits In
ScrapTrade buyers can quote on a sorted pile from photos, which saves you carrying it around.
One less job to worry about. ScrapTrade connects families with verified buyers who can collect, with transparent weighing and escrow-protected payments.
List or Find Scrap on ScrapTrade →Practical, sensitive answers on selling scrap metal when you are clearing a family home or an estate.