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What materials do you accept for recycling?

Please visit our page to see what materials we do and do not accept here.

Please visit our page to see what materials we do and do not accept here.

In Louisiana, individuals do not need a business license to recycle their personal metal waste with a licensed recycling facility. However, there are specific legal requirements and restrictions for both individuals and recycling businesses, especially concerning certain types of metals.

 

When You Do Not Need a Business License

If you’re an individual bringing personal scrap metal (e.g., old appliances, household items, or non-regulated metals) to a licensed recycler, you are not required to obtain a business license. However, you will need to:

  • Present a valid, government-issued photo ID.
  • Sign a statement affirming ownership of the materials.
  • Provide a thumbprint or allow a photograph to be taken, depending on the recycler’s procedures.
  • Accept payment via check or loadable payment card, as cash payments are restricted for certain materials.

 

When a Business License Is Required

If you’re selling regulated materials such as copper, aluminum/copper radiators, or other specified items, Louisiana law imposes stricter regulations:

  • Cash payments are prohibited for these materials unless you have a valid business license, and the materials are a byproduct of your business operations.
  • Without a business license, recyclers are required to:
  • Issue payment via check, mailed to the address on your ID.
  • Implement a mandatory 5-day holding period before the payment is processed.

All recycled containers must be empty. Large containers need a hole in them for verification that they do not contain liquids or hazardous waste. For the best return, please sort your metals before you arrive to ensure a smooth and easy transaction.

Scrap metal prices are determined by a combination of global, national, and local market factors:

  1. Global Market Demand & Supply: Scrap metal is traded internationally, so prices are influenced by global demand, particularly from major importing countries. When demand for metal in manufacturing rises, prices increase. Conversely, when supply exceeds demand, prices decrease.
  2. Commodity Market Prices: Base metals like copper, aluminum, and steel are traded on commodity exchanges such as the London Metal Exchange (LME) and COMEX. These markets set benchmark prices for raw metals, which directly impact scrap metal pricing.
  3. Metal Type & Grade: Different metals have different values. For example, copper (especially bare bright) typically has a high price, while aluminum and steel tend to be lower in value. Clean, sorted metals are worth more than mixed or contaminated ones.
  4. Processing & Transportation Costs: Recyclers factor in the costs of sorting, processing, and transporting scrap to mills or exporters. More labor-intensive or contaminated materials will result in a lower price offered.