How to photograph your scrap for a more useful quote
Four practical views help us understand the load without asking you to guess its grade.
Photo 1: show the whole load
Stand back far enough to show the complete pile, bin, drum or pallet. Include the storage container so the scale is understandable. If there are several bags or piles, say how many and whether they contain similar material. A close-up of one good piece cannot describe a mixed load.
Photo 2: show representative material
In daylight or even warehouse light, photograph a selection of the actual cable types or metal items. Avoid strong glare, colour filters and digital zoom. Show ordinary pieces as well as the most valuable-looking ones. For a mixed load, add a note about the proportion that differs from the top layer.
Photo 3: show the details that affect assessment
For cable, show existing exposed ends and readable product markings. For plumbing copper, show soldered joints, valves and other attachments. For AC coils, show frames and brackets. For alloy wheels, show whether tyres are fitted. Never cut cable that may be energised or open equipment solely to take a photograph.
Photo 4: show packaging and access when asking for pickup
Show whether the load is loose, bagged, palletised or on drums. Describe stairs, driveway restrictions, vehicle access and available loading equipment in the notes. Do not assume a photo tells us the weight or that a full bin can be lifted safely. Confirm the practical collection arrangements directly.
Add the details a photo cannot supply
Include your suburb, a measured weight or honest estimate, material source and any timing constraints. If you do not know the quantity, choose “Not sure”. Mention known aluminium conductors, moisture, non-metal waste or material underneath the visible layer. These details reduce avoidable back-and-forth.
Keep private information out of the frame
Do not photograph ID documents, bank details, unrelated faces or paperwork containing someone else’s information. Only share photos you are entitled to use. The enquiry form accepts up to four JPG, PNG or WebP images. Photos support an initial assessment; final grading and weighing still happen before an agreed purchase. A submission reference confirms receipt of the enquiry, not a price or booked collection.