How Do I Start a Scrap Metal Business in North Central Florida?

Scrap metal businesses need to be located in appropriately zoned areas.

North central Florida consists of Alachua, Bradford, Columbia, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Madison, Marion, Putnam, Suwannee and Union counties. The region's largest city is Gainesville, which is also home to the fourth-largest university in the nation, the University of Florida. Starting a financially viable scrap metal business in the area requires careful research and planning to ensure that the business has the best possible chance to be successful.

Instructions

1. Research the pricing structures of competing scrap metal dealers in the north central Florida region, and determine if it is a financially viable business opportunity for you. You will also need to determine where the local scrap metal recyclers are and how much they will pay for the scrap metals you will sell them.

2. Price the cost of equipment you will need to operate your business, such as a flat-bed truck, industrial scales, forklift truck, baler and various hand tools such as saws and torches.

3. Develop a comprehensive feasibility study to help you build a business plan that includes your goals, start-up costs, a five-year growth plan and funding sources. You will need a business plan if you hope to get loans or grants.

4. Consult a small business expert to get advice on business start-up. The Small Business Administration's Jacksonville office provides free advice to help entrepreneurs comply with all federal, state and local requisites pertaining to business. It can also assist you in filing for appropriate business licences and permits and filing your tax status with the IRS.

   Small Business Administration

   Jacksonville District Office

   7825 Baymeadows Way, Suite 100B

   Jacksonville, FL 32256 - 7504

   [phone]

   sba.gov

5. Investigate local zoning codes and restrictions for north central Florida region to determine in which areas you are permitted to use land for the business of scrap metal salvage, storage and resale.

6. Find an available piece of land that is appropriately zoned for your business, which you can afford to buy or lease.

7. Market your business to local building contractors, auto repair shops and other types of businesses that may have scrap metal to dispose of on a regular basis.

References

• Small Business Administration: Jacksonville

Resources

• Scrapmonster