Recycling isn’t just for water bottles and old newspapers. Scrap metal is actually one of the largest sectors of the recycling industry because it is one of the most easily repurposed and reused materials we have. Recycling one ton of steel conserves roughly 2,500 pounds of iron ore, 1,400 pounds of coal and 120 pounds of limestone. Not only is scrap recycling a huge benefit to the environment and the economy, but did you know it can also benefit your own bottom line?
At the Berman Brothers scrap recycling facility alone, we process over 100 million pounds of scrap metal annually. We offer competitive pricing for scrap steel and metal for both industrial organizations as well as the general retail public.
Do I need special equipment to recycle scrap metals?
No. Berman Brothers makes it simple to recycle. Just collect the materials and we’ll do the rest. Small loads can be dropped off at our recycling facility at 2500 Evergreen Avenue in Jacksonville, Florida. For large, industrial-level needs, Berman Brothers can drop off and pick up roll-off containers, dump trailers and flatbeds. To measure, we use radiation detection with both handheld and scale equipment. We also certify our scales four times more frequently than the industry standard, so you can rest assured that you are getting the most accurate measurement.
What metals can be recycled?
There are two basic categories of recyclable scrap – ferrous and non-ferrous. Ferrous metals contain iron and are generally heavier and stronger than their non-ferrous counterparts. While Berman Brothers specializes in ferrous metals, we also purchase aluminum, brass, copper, iron, lead, nickel alloys, stainless steel and other scrap metals at the best price. Not sure if what you have is recyclable? Call us at 904-353-3694 or bring it in. Our on-site experts will assess and let you know. One quick tip: Carry a magnet with you. If it is drawn to the metal, it is likely ferrous.
What metals are not recyclable?
In order to maintain the highest standards, Berman Brothers does not accept the following:
- Sealed Containers – This includes oxygen tanks, CO2 tanks, propane tanks and fire extinguishers
- Steel cable and steel guide wire
- AC Units and refrigerators with Freon
- Tires
- Cast iron with lead joints
- Shred less than 70% metal
- Capacitors
- Trash
- Wood
- Concrete
- Plastic
- Radioactive material
- Any item that smells like fuel or could possibly be flammable
- Any item that you are unsure of its use or what it is
- When buying breakage, the material should be at least ½ aluminum or purchased as shred steel
Are there any items restricted in scrap recycling?
- You should always have permission to collect metal from properties, buildings and demolition sites that don’t belong to you. If you don’t, you could be prosecuted for trespassing and theft. In fact, in order to protect the public, Florida law requires proof of ownership when dropping off select items. We can only accept the following when proof of ownership is provided.
- Manhole Covers
- Electric light poles
- Guard rails
- Street signs
- Utility wire (communication, distribution or service wire)
- Funeral Marker or vase
- Historical markers
- Railroad equipment
- Any item marked with name, initials or logo of a government entity, utility company, cemetery, or railroad.
- Air conditioner coils (Aluminum/Copper and All Aluminum)
- Stainless steel beer kegs
- Catalytic converters
- Burned copper or aluminum wire
- Commercial brass valves or fittings (fire department connection or control valves)
- Brass backflow preventers
- Shopping carts
- Brass Water Meters
- Storm grates
- Commercial brass sprinkler heads (used in agriculture)
- More than TWO batteries