Starting a scrap metal export business can be very lucrative, depending on the current price of scrap metal. Most export businesses are small, often run by sole proprietors. At its very basic, you need a supplier, a buyer and someone to handle the foreign transaction.
Find a supplier of scrap metal. Check out scrapmetal.org for a directory of buyers and sellers of scrap metal.
Obtain a business license from your local government business license office. Be sure to bring your driver’s license and money to cover the fees, if any.
Check with your local Small Business Administration to find out the rules on exporting products, specifically scrap metal, from your area. They can also offer help writing a business plan, if you choose to write one.
Do an Internet search for “export management companies.”
Hire an export management company to handle all of your export transactions. You will either have to pay them a commission or a salary. These companies will help you tap into foreign markets, set up shipments, and they will handle getting the scrap metal through customs.
Check the price of scrap metal often and set your prices accordingly. (See Eurofer in the Resources Section.)
Things You'll Need:
- Computer
- Internet access
- Driver’s license
Tip
After you work with an export management company and learn the ropes, you may wish to save money and do the extra work yourself. But you will probably have to find your own contacts and shipping company.
Warnings:
- Be sure to get several professional references from your export management company since this company will play a pivotal role in your business.
Resources
Writer Bio
Katie B. Marsh is a self-published author, article writer, screenwriter, and inventor. After graduating from South Coast College of Court Reporting, she worked as a congressional and freelance court reporter for eight years. She began her writing career in 2005. Her content may be found on amazon.com, booksforsharing.com, and ezinearticles.com. She completed her first screenplay in October 2009.
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