What Metals Pay Cash?
Almost any non-ferrous metal has cash value. The more valuable the metal, the more cash you get per pound. Here's a breakdown of common scrap metals and their cash-value tier:
How Much Cash Can You Expect?
Prices change daily based on commodity markets, but here are realistic ballpark figures to set your expectations:
- 50 lbs of #1 copper pipe — roughly $150–$250 depending on the current market
- 100 lbs of insulated wire — roughly $60–$120 depending on wire gauge and insulation type
- 50 lbs of brass fittings — roughly $80–$150
- 10 lbs of tungsten carbide inserts — roughly $100–$200 or more (carbide is surprisingly valuable by weight)
- 200 lbs of aluminum extrusions — roughly $80–$160
These are general estimates — not quotes. The exact amount depends on current commodity prices and the specific grade of your material. For a real number on your specific lot, text a photo to 813-845-4168 and we'll give you an actual quote within a few hours.
How to Get Paid — Step by Step
Florida Law on Cash Scrap Metal Sales
Florida has regulations around scrap metal sales designed to prevent theft of metal infrastructure. Here's what you need to know as a legitimate seller:
- Photo ID required — all scrap metal buyers in Florida are required to collect your valid photo ID at the time of sale
- Payment limits — for certain material types (particularly copper, aluminum, and other commonly stolen metals), Florida law may require payment by check rather than cash for transactions above certain thresholds, depending on the buyer's license and the specific material
- Catalytic converters — require proof of vehicle ownership (title or bill of sale) due to high theft rates
- Record keeping — buyers are required to keep records of transactions, which is standard practice at all licensed dealers
For the vast majority of sellers — homeowners with plumbing demo, contractors with wire and pipe, machine shops with carbide and copper — none of these rules create any friction. You bring your ID, sell your metal, and get paid. The regulations target commercial-scale theft, not legitimate sellers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a minimum amount to sell for cash?
No hard minimum, but practically speaking the material should be worth at least a few dollars to make the transaction worthwhile. If you have a small handful of copper wire, it's worth selling — if you have literally a few scraps of mixed metal, it may not be worth the trip. When in doubt, call us and describe what you have. We'll give you an honest answer.
Do I need an appointment to sell scrap metal?
For pickup — yes, schedule ahead by calling or texting. For drop-off — most buyers including CRC Buyers can accommodate walk-ins, but calling ahead ensures someone is available and saves you a wasted trip.
Can businesses sell scrap metal for cash too?
Yes. Contractors, machine shops, HVAC companies, plumbers, and manufacturers all sell their scrap metal for cash or check. For businesses that generate scrap regularly, it usually makes sense to set up a recurring pickup account rather than selling on a one-off basis. We offer scheduled pickups for commercial accounts throughout Florida.
What if my metal is mixed or dirty?
Mixed or dirty metal still has value — it just pays at a lower grade. We weigh and evaluate your material honestly. If you want to maximize your payout, sort and clean your material before selling. But if you don't have time, we can work with mixed lots too — just know you're leaving some money on the table.