Scrap Metal Recycling Business Plan Template – Instant Download

Launch a credible, lender-ready scrap operation with a plan built for U.S. recycling yards, mobile pickup teams, and bulk processors handling aluminum, copper, steel, and mixed metals. The structure mirrors what SBA reviewers and bank underwriters expect so they can validate your plan quickly.

Delivered instantly in editable Word with a matching PDF, the template includes a clean 3-year forecast. Model inbound tonnage, buy prices vs. resale spreads, route density, yard throughput, labor by role, equipment capex, and compliance costs. Swap in your vendors, pricing, and contracts—then export a polished PDF for lenders and partners.

Lender talking points are included so you can answer questions on licensing, scale controls, environmental practices, and commodity volatility—moving you from idea to approval without delays.

Fully customizable. Instant delivery. Built for funding conversations.

• Format: Word (editable) + PDF (print-ready)
• Scope: Public buyback, contractor accounts, mobile pickups, and bulk resale
• Built-in: 3-year forecast, route density model, spread sensitivity
• Works with: Scale software, camera/ID intake, theft-prevention policies

Methodology

• Use recent U.S. benchmarks for volumes and spreads; localize with supplier contracts.
• Model conservative buy prices and quick turns; include shrink and scale controls.
• Right-size routing and staffing to meet safety and environmental requirements.
• Attach permits, insurance, and SOPs; include contingency for commodity swings.

Who Should Use This Plan

• Startup yards pursuing SBA 7(a) or grants
• Mobile pickup/hauling teams formalizing routes
• Demolition & contractor recyclers adding buyback
• Community recycling leaders building a local hub
• Investors seeking a credible, lender-ready package

Why Choose This Business Plan

Consultants add weeks and cost. This template arrives instantly and mirrors the flow lenders expect—Executive Summary → Market → Operations → Financials—so reviewers can validate compliance, capacity, spreads, and cash buffers. Edit a handful of fields, attach supplier contracts, and walk into underwriting with confidence.

Key Risks & Mitigations

• Commodity volatility: keep buffer inventory low; hedge with quick turns and fixed-margin contracts where possible.
• Shrink/theft risk: enforce camera/ID intake, holds, and reconciliation audits.
• Safety/environment: formal SOPs, PPE, training cadence, and documented inspections.
• Route inefficiency: build density by ZIP/weekday; track pickups per hour and fuel per ton.

How do I source steady volume?

Prioritize contractor and utility accounts on scheduled routes, then use signage, local SEO, and community drives for public buyback. Offer transparent pricing and fast unload times to retain suppliers.

What intake controls reduce risk?

Use camera/ID verification, receipt logs, and holds on high-risk items; calibrate scales regularly and audit spread per ton and shrink weekly.

Industry Snapshot (U.S.)

Scrap metal recycling connects manufacturing, construction, and consumer waste streams. Thousands of U.S. firms collect, sort, and process metal for domestic mills and exporters. Activity tracks construction and durable-goods output, while pricing follows commodity indexes. Lenders look for disciplined scale controls, verifiable supply, and a clear plan to manage price volatility. Pairing contractor accounts with public buyback and scheduled routes helps smooth cash flow and stabilize spreads through the year.

Sources: Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries — U.S. Scrap Industry Facts (2024–2025); Federal Reserve — Industrial Production & Capacity Utilization (current release).

What You’ll Turn In

• Bank-ready plan (PDF) with lender-friendly sections and clean formatting
• Editable Word (.docx) for rapid customization and re-export
• 3-year forecast with tonnage, spreads, payroll, overhead, and break-even
• Appendix placeholders for contracts, insurance COIs, SOPs, and permits

What You’ll Customize

• Commodity pricing assumptions, buy/sell spreads, and shrink controls
• Route density, equipment list, staffing plan, and safety policies
• Supplier agreements, theft-prevention intake, and compliance costs
• Marketing calendar, contractor outreach, municipal bids, and KPIs

What’s Not Included

• Legal/tax services, permits, or environmental audits
• Custom financial modeling beyond the included 3-year forecast
• Third-party contracts, trucks/loaders, or software subscriptions

Related Products

• Bottle Recycling Business Plan Template
• Garbage Collection Truck Service Business Plan
• Sandblasting & Surface Prep Business Plan

Helpful Reads

• Get the Business Plan That Actually Gets You Funded
• Setting Up Payment Gateways for Your Online Store

Frequently Asked Questions