FAQs
What identification is needed when I come to Einfalt Recycling & Salvage ?
Photo ID Requirements
To receive payment for your scrap metal, you must present a valid photo ID. If your photo ID does not show your current address, you will also need to provide proof of your current address.
Acceptable forms of photo ID include:
- Valid driver’s license with photo
- Valid passport
- Valid state-issued ID
All scrap materials must be free of oils, fuels, and other hazardous substances. Sellers should also be prepared to provide proof of ownership for the materials they are selling.
What items does Einfalt Recycling & Salvage accept?
Non-Ferrous Metals (Higher Value Scrap)
We accept many types of non-ferrous metals, which typically have higher recycling value.
- Copper
- Bare bright copper wire
- Copper tubing and pipe
- Insulated copper wire
- Copper sheet and flashing
- Aluminum
- Aluminum cans (clean & dry)
- Aluminum siding and gutters
- Aluminum rims
- Aluminum sheet metal
- Cast aluminum
- Brass
- Brass plumbing fixtures
- Brass valves and fittings
- Brass shell casings (fired)
- Stainless Steel
- Stainless appliances
- Stainless kitchen equipment
- Stainless scrap metal (pipes, fittings, valves, sheet metal)
- Other Non-Ferrous Metals
- Lead
- Zinc
- Nickel alloys
Ferrous Metals (Iron & Steel)
We also accept ferrous scrap metals, including common household and industrial steel items.
- Steel scrap
- Iron scrap
- Cast Iron ( pipes, sinks, bathtubs, radiators)
- Sheet metal or Light Iron
- Plate & Structural steel
- Steel pipes and tubing
- Steel furniture
- Scrap metal from construction and demolition
Appliances & Household Scrap Metal
Many household appliances contain recyclable metal that we accept.
- Washing machines
- Dryers
- Stoves and ovens
- Dishwashers
- Refrigerators and freezers (may require preparation depending on regulations and MUST BE EMPTY!)
- Water heaters
- Microwaves
Automotive / Heavy Trcuk Scrap & Car Parts
We accept many automotive scrap metal items, including:
- Steel car & truck rims
- Auto batteries
- Radiators
- Alternators
- Electric motors
- Starters
- Metal auto/truck parts ( springs, shocks, frame)
Construction & Contractor Scrap
Contractors and construction companies often bring us scrap metal from job sites, including:
- Copper electrical wire
- Electrical cables
- Metal piping
- HVAC components ( central air units, furnaces & boilers, etc.)
- Steel beams and framing
- Metal roofing and siding
Business & Industrial Scrap
Businesses can recycle large quantities of scrap materials such as:
- Manufacturing scrap metal
- Machine shop turnings
- Industrial metal components
- Scrap from fabrication and production
Items Not Accepted
For safety and environmental compliance, Einfalt Recycling & Salvage cannot accept materials containing:
- NO Oils or fuels
- NO Hazardous chemicals
- NO Pressurized containers
- NO Radioactive materials
All scrap materials must be clean and free of hazardous substances.
What Items Are Prohibited at Einfalt Recycling & Salvage?
For safety, legal compliance, and environmental protection, Einfalt Recycling & Salvage cannot accept certain materials. Items containing hazardous substances, regulated materials, or items that cannot be legally recycled will be refused.
Hazardous Materials
The following hazardous materials are not accepted:
- Containers with oil, gasoline, diesel, or other fuels
- Chemical containers or materials contaminated with chemicals
- Paint, solvents, or industrial chemicals
- Propane tanks or pressurized cylinders
- Explosive or flammable materials
- Radioactive materials
Contaminated Scrap Metal
Scrap metal must be clean and free of hazardous substances. The following will not be accepted:
- Metal contaminated with oil, fuel, or chemicals
- Sealed containers or drums with unknown contents
- Metal mixed with hazardous waste
Illegal or Restricted Materials
For legal reasons, sellers must have proof of ownership when required. We cannot accept:
- Stolen materials
- Utility property (such as manhole covers, street signs, guardrails, or utility wire) without proper authorization
- Railroad materials such as railroad pins or track components without documentation
Electronics & Other Restricted Items
Some items may require special recycling processes and are not accepted at our facility, including:
- Certain electronics
- Batteries not intended for scrap recycling
- Medical or biohazard waste
Important Reminder
All materials brought to Einfalt Recycling & Salvage must be:
- Free of oils, fuels, and hazardous substances
- Legally owned by the seller
- Properly prepared for recycling
If you are unsure whether your item is acceptable, please contact us before bringing it to the yard.
Is an Appointment Necessary?
No, an appointment is not necessary to bring scrap metal to Einfalt Recycling & Salvage. Customers can typically stop by during normal operating hours to sell scrap metal.
Yard Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Simply bring your scrap materials to the yard during these hours and our staff will assist you with unloading, weighing, and payment.
When You May Need to Contact Us First
While appointments are not required for regular drop-offs, we recommend calling ahead if you have:
- Large commercial or industrial loads
- Equipment or machinery to recycle
- Scrap metal pickup requests
- Questions about materials or preparation
If you’re unsure, feel free to contact us before visiting and we’ll be happy to help.
How Do I Know What Type of Metal I Have?
A simple way to identify many types of scrap metal is by using a magnet test. This quick test helps determine whether your metal is ferrous (contains iron) or non-ferrous (does not contain iron).
Step 1: Use a Magnet
Take a regular household magnet—like one from your refrigerator—and place it against the metal item.
If the Magnet Sticks
If the magnet sticks firmly, the metal is likely ferrous metal, which contains iron.
Common household examples include:
- Steel food cans
- Cast iron cookware
- Steel furniture or shelving
- Nails, screws, and bolts
- Metal bed frames
- Lawn mower decks
These items are typically classified as steel or iron scrap.
If the Magnet Does NOT Stick
If the magnet does not stick, the metal is likely non-ferrous, which often has a higher scrap value.
Common household examples include:
Copper
- Plumbing pipes
- Electrical wiring
- Copper tubing from appliances
Aluminum
- Soda and beverage cans
- Aluminum siding or gutters
- Aluminum baking pans
- Aluminum ladders
Brass
- Door handles
- Keys
- Plumbing fixtures and valves
Stainless Steel
- Kitchen sinks
- Some cookware
- Appliances
Quick Tip
Some items may contain multiple metals. For example:
- Appliances may have both steel and copper
- Electronics may contain copper wiring and aluminum parts
Still Not Sure?
If you're unsure what type of metal you have, consider using our rate my junk feature or bring it to Einfalt Recycling & Salvage and our team can help identify it for you.
How Will I Be Paid for My Scrap Items?
Step 1: Weighing Your Scrap
When you arrive at the yard, your materials will be:
- Inspected
- Sorted by metal type
- Weighed on a certified scale
Different metals (such as copper, aluminum, brass, steel, and stainless steel) are paid at different rates.
Step 2: Price Determination
The value of your scrap depends on:
- Type of metal
- Weight
- Current market prices for scrap metal
- Material condition and cleanliness
Step 3: Payment
Once your materials are processed and weighed, you will receive payment according to local and state regulations. A valid photo ID is required to receive payment.
Important Notes
- Scrap prices change frequently based on market conditions.
- Materials must be free of oils, fuels, and hazardous substances.
- Sellers should be prepared to show proof of ownership if requested.
If you have questions about current scrap prices or large loads, feel free to contact Einfalt Recycling & Salvage before bringing your materials in.
What Is My Scrap Worth?
The value of your scrap metal depends on several factors, including the type of metal, weight, material quality, and current market prices.
Factors That Affect Scrap Value
1. Type of Metal
Different metals have different values. Generally, non-ferrous metals are worth more than ferrous metals.
Examples of higher-value metals:
- Copper
- Brass
- Aluminum
- Stainless steel
- Lower-value metals typically include:
- Steel
- Iron
- Sheet metal
2. Weight
Scrap metal is paid by weight, measured in pounds or by the 100lbs.
3. Material Condition
Clean, separated metals often bring better prices than mixed or contaminated scrap.
For example:
- Clean copper wire is worth more than insulated wire.
- Clean aluminum are worth more than mixed aluminum scrap with non aluinum attachments.
4. Market Prices
Scrap metal prices change frequently based on supply, demand, and global metal markets. Because of this, prices can vary from day to day.
How to Find Out Your Scrap’s Value
To get the most accurate price:
- Bring your scrap to Einfalt Recycling & Salvage for weighing
- Or use our "rate my scrap" feature ( link) to identify your scrap
Our team will help identify your material and determine its value based on current market rates.
Do You Accept Kitchen Appliances?
Yes, Einfalt Recycling & Salvage accepts many kitchen appliances because they contain recyclable metals such as steel, aluminum, and copper.
Common Kitchen Appliances We Accept
Examples of appliances commonly accepted at scrap yards include:
- Stoves and ovens
- Microwaves
- Dishwashers
- Refrigerators and freezers
- Range hoods
- Garbage disposals
- Stainless steel sinks
Many of these items contain valuable metals that can be recycled and reused in manufacturing.
Important Preparation Requirements
Before bringing appliances to the yard:
- Remove food, liquids, and non-metal debris
- Make sure the appliance is free of oils, fuels, or hazardous substances
- Some appliances that contain refrigerants (like refrigerators or AC units) may require special handling or preparation before recycling. WE WILL ACCEPT APPLIANCES WITH FREON FOR FREE DROP OFF.
Tip
Larger appliances—like stoves, refrigerators, dishwashers, and microwaves—often contain significant amounts of recyclable metal, making them good items to bring to a scrap yard.
If you're unsure whether a specific appliance is accepted, contact Einfalt Recycling & Salvage before bringing it in.
Do You Accept Junk / Scrap Vehicles?
Yes, Einfalt Recycling & Salvage accepts junk or unwanted vehicles. We can also offer towing service if the car is not running or unsafe to drive to our yard.
Junk vehicles that Einfalt typically accepts include:
- Old or high-mileage cars
- Non-running vehicles
- Accident-damaged or totaled cars
- Demolition Derby Cars
- Pickup Trucks and SUVs
- Vehicles with major mechanical problems (non running)
What You May Need
If you plan to bring in a junk vehicle, you will asked to provide:
- Vehicle title or proof of ownership
- Valid photo ID
Important Note
Because requirements can vary depending on the vehicle and local regulations, it’s best tocontact Einfalt Recycling & Salvage before bringing in a junk vehicle so we can confirm acceptance and provide instructions.
Can You Pick Up My Scrap Metal?
Yes. Einfalt Recycling & Salvage offers scrap metal pickup services for certain situations, especially for larger quantities of scrap from businesses, contractors, or property cleanouts.
If you have a large amount of scrap metal, equipment, or materials from a construction or demolition project, our team may be able to arrange a pickup.
Dumpster & Container Service
For ongoing projects or larger scrap loads, we also offer scheduled dumpster and container services. This is a convenient option for:
- Contractors and construction sites
- Manufacturing or industrial facilities
- Property cleanouts
- Businesses that regularly generate scrap metal
With our dumpster service, we can deliver a container to your location and schedule regular pickups when it’s full.
👉 To learn more or request service, visit our Schedule Dumpster Service page.
Not Sure if Your Scrap Qualifies for Pickup?
Pickup availability depends on the type and amount of material. Contact Einfalt Recycling & Salvage and our team will help determine the best option for your scrap metal recycling needs.
What Should I Know About Metal Theft Laws?
Metal theft is a serious issue that affects homeowners, businesses, utilities, and construction sites. To prevent stolen materials from entering the recycling market, Pennsylvania has strict laws governing the sale of scrap metal.
Pennsylvania Scrap Metal Theft Law
Pennsylvania’s Scrap Material Theft Prevention Act (Act 113 of 2008) requires scrap yards and recycling facilities to follow specific rules when purchasing scrap metal. These rules help law enforcement track stolen materials and protect property owners.
Some of the requirements include:
Sellers must present a valid photo ID.
Scrap yards may record vehicle license plate numbers.
Transactions must include details such as date, material type, weight, and payment amount.
Sellers may be required to certify that they own the material or are authorized to sell it.
Restricted Materials
Certain items are commonly targeted for theft and may require proof of ownership or special documentation before they can be sold. Examples include:
- Utility wire or cable
- Manhole covers and utility access covers
Street signs and guardrails - Railroad materials
- New construction materials such as unused copper wire or pipe
- Catalytic converters
These restrictions exist because stolen metal is sometimes sold for scrap, especially when metal prices increase.
Penalties for Metal Theft
Theft of scrap metal in Pennsylvania can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the value of the material. Courts may also impound vehicles used in the theft or transport of stolen metal.
Our Commitment
At Einfalt Recycling & Salvage, we strictly follow all Pennsylvania metal theft laws and work closely with law enforcement to prevent stolen materials from entering the recycling stream.
Learn More About Pennsylvania’s Metal Theft Law
For more information, you can review the full law here:
🔗 Pennsylvania Scrap Material Theft Prevention Act (Act 113)
If you have questions about restricted materials or proof of ownership requirements, please contact us before bringing items to the yard.