For buyers
Hire a scrap agent to buy scrap for you
Buying scrap means finding material that actually matches your specification, checking who you are dealing with, negotiating and arranging collection or freight. A buyer's agent can do the searching and screening and handle the deal, while you decide what to buy and at what price.
When hiring a buyer's agent tends to help
- You need particular grades or specifications and want listings screened for you.
- You buy regularly across several regions.
- You do not have time to monitor listings and respond.
- You want someone to write up your requirements clearly.
What the agent can do
Tasks you can hand over
| Task | What it involves |
|---|---|
| Write your requirements | Turn your specification, volumes, locations and timing into a clear request, such as a Wanted Board post. See the Wanted Board |
| Find and shortlist | Search listings and shortlist those that fit |
| Check the seller | Review seller details and listing information, and ask questions |
| Negotiate | Handle offers and negotiate on your behalf |
| Coordinate collection | Help arrange timing, access and freight with the seller |
Want someone to source and screen for you? Tell us what you need to buy.
Request a scrap agentWhat you still do
Your part of the job
- Define the specificationBe precise about grade, volume, location and timing. Vague requests get vague results.
- Decide your termsKnow the most you are willing to pay, and tell your agent.
- Approve the purchaseAgree with the agent whether you sign off on each deal.
- Pay through the platformPayment goes through ScrapTrade as normal, with your agent's commission added on top of the purchase price.
- Inspect where it mattersFor large or valuable lots, decide whether someone should inspect the material.
Conflicts of interest
Make sure the agent works for you
An agent paid by you should not also be paid by the seller on the same deal without telling you. Ask directly whether the agent works for any sellers. An agent who is paid more for a higher price, or who benefits from a particular seller, has an incentive that may not match yours.
Is it worth it?
A simple rule for deciding
Hire a buyer's agent when the time and skill they bring plausibly exceed the commission. Consider how much of your own time the searching and screening would take, how costly a bad purchase would be and how often you buy. For occasional small purchases, doing it yourself may cost less. For regular or specialised buying, the saving can be real. In either case, judge the agent by their process and records, not by promises.
Frequently asked questions
Can a scrap agent buy scrap for me?
An agent can find and screen material and handle the deal for you, within the scope of your hiring agreement. You decide what to buy and at what price.
How do I pay a buyer's agent?
The agent's commission is added on top of the purchase price at the percentage you set before confirming. The seller's price is not reduced.
Can the agent post a Wanted Board request for me?
Writing and posting your requirements is a task you can hand over, if it is within the scope of your hiring agreement.
Should my agent also work for sellers?
Not on the same deal without telling you. Ask directly before you hire.
Does the agent pay the seller?
Payment goes through ScrapTrade's normal process. Your agent's commission is added on top of the purchase price and shown in the breakdown.
More about hiring a scrap agent
Want someone to handle your scrap listings or deals?
Tell us what you need and we will get back to you about next steps.
Related reading: Agent fees and commission · Scrap agent vs scrap broker · How to choose a scrap agent