Question. How does Rite Metals validate the origin of the scrap it purchases?

Answer. As stolen material is a issue in our industry and validation of legal owners can not easily be ascertained, it is Rite Metals' policy to not deal with informal traders from the street. Our scrap is exclusively sourced from clients using our bin placement services where ownership of the scrap can be authenticated.

Question. Why do companies/individuals sell their metal to scrap dealers instead of selling directly to the foundries?

Answer. There are various reasons why most scrap metal material is sold to scrap dealers instead of directly to the foundries. One is the issue of processing before the foundries can use the material. A scrap dealer will sort out the different types of metals and ensure the sizes are adequate before sending it to a foundry for melting. Another is one of capital investment - should the foundries consider running such an operation themselves, they would have to maintain a fleet of trucks and secure extra premises to dump and process the scrap steel they bring in. Thirdly, most companies do not produce enough scrap to meet the demands of the foundries as they require large volumes of material to ensure their furnaces run efficiently and cost effectively.

Question. Do you purchase manhole covers and signposts?

Answer. This is probably the most frequently asked question, usually asked in a joking manner. The answer is No. It is illegal to handle municipal property and it is enforcable by large fines should you be found in possesion of any such material. Only scrap metal dealers with permits from the municipal council are allowed to process those materials.