Choosing well
How to choose a scrap agent
An agent acts for you, so the choice matters. You are looking for someone who knows your kind of material, communicates clearly, works to the hiring agreement and has no hidden interests. These checks help you tell the difference.
What to look for
- Experience with your type of material and your kind of deal.
- Examples of listings or deals they have handled, with permission to share.
- Clear about what they will and will not do.
- A clear way of reporting to you.
- No undisclosed conflicts of interest.
Questions to ask
Eight questions for any agent
| Question | What a good answer sounds like |
|---|---|
| What materials do you know best? | Specific materials and grades, not 'everything' |
| Can you show examples? | Listings or descriptions they can share, with permission |
| How will you describe my material? | A clear process for grade, quantity, condition and photos |
| How will you handle offers? | A clear, simple answer you can agree to |
| How and when will you report to me? | A named channel and regular updates |
| What commission will you want? | A percentage you can compare, set before you confirm |
| Do you work for anyone else on this material? | A direct answer, and disclosure if yes |
| What if the deal does not complete? | A clear position on commission and next steps, consistent with platform policy |
Want help finding the right kind of agent for your scrap? Tell us what you need.
Request a scrap agentStart small
A cautious way to begin
- Try one lotStart with a single listing or deal before handing over regular work.
- Check the first listingRead it as a buyer would. Is it accurate, complete and clear?
- Review how they communicateWere updates prompt and honest?
- Compare the result with the commissionWas the work worth what it cost?
- Then decideExtend, adjust the scope or stop.
Red flags
Reasons to walk away
Be wary if an agent
- Asks you to pay outside the platform, or to change the commission after you have confirmed
- Promises a price or a quick sale
- Pushes you to move the deal or payment off the platform
- Will not explain their terms clearly
- Will not say who else they are working for
- Cannot describe material accurately or says it does not matter
Next, read the hiring agreement checklist before you confirm anything.
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose a scrap agent?
Look for experience with your kind of material, examples of their work, clarity about what they will do, clear reporting and no undisclosed conflicts. Start with a single lot.
What should I ask an agent before hiring them?
Ask what materials they know, for examples, how they will describe your material, how they will handle offers, how they will report, what commission they expect, who else they work for and what happens if no deal completes.
Should I check references?
Yes, where they are offered. Ask the agent for examples of work they can share with permission.
Can the commission be changed once we agree?
No. Once the hiring agreement is confirmed the rate is locked. A different rate needs a new agreement.
What if I am not happy with an agent?
Raise it with the agent first. If you need to end the arrangement, ask the ScrapTrade team how that works. A change of commission needs a new agreement.
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: Hiring agreement checklist · Become a scrap agent · Hire a scrap agent