If you're not making enough money from recycling aluminum cans, it's time to expand your efforts into copper wiring. Copper wire recyclinging will increase your revenue considerably. That's because copper wire has a hire value than basic aluminum. However, there are some steps that you need to follow when selling copper wire. Here's some information you need to know before you start.

Don't Forage Through Construction Sites

You may have seen people foraging through construction sites looking for copper wire. While that might seem like a good idea, it can actually land you in a lot of legal trouble. Most people fail to ask permission prior to sifting through the construction debris. Unfortunately, if they get caught doing that, they could end up with an arrest on their records. That's because copper theft is taken quite seriously. If you're going to start selling copper wire, ask permission before you enter any construction site.

Don't Burn Your Wire to Remove Insulation

If you're going to sell copper wire, it's best to remove the insulation, which is the plastic covering. Removing the covering from the wire allows you to see the condition of the wire, and ensures that you receive maximum payment for your efforts. However, don't try to burn the insulation off the wiring. Not only do you increase your risk of being injured, you also release harmful chemicals into the environment. Use a wire stripper instead. This device will remove the covering quickly and safely.

Do Form a Relationship With Your Buyer

If you're going to be selling copper wire on a regular basis, form a good relationship with your buyer. Having a good working relationship with your buyer helps both of you. First, you know you'll be receiving the maximum value for your copper wire each time. Second, your buyer will know that they're receiving the copper from a reputable source.

Do Remember to Report Your Recycling Income

If you make more than a few dollars from your recycling efforts each month, you need to keep track of the income. Depending on how much you earn, you'll need to report that income on your taxes at the end of the year. You may think that you won't need to report since you have an all-cash income, but that's not necessarily true. When your copper buyer files their taxes, they'll report your sales information. You can prevent your own IRS problems by reporting your recycling income.

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