Cutting before identifying
Cutting a reel into manageable lengths destroys the footage and often the tag. Cable that could have sold as 800 feet now sells as eight pieces.
Mixing metals
Copper and aluminium on the same pallet are priced at the lower metal or as mixed recovery. Separation costs minutes and is worth more than the labour.
Losing the tags
A tag is the only cheap proof of construction and length. Tape it back on, photograph it, and keep it with the reel.
Accepting a weight-only quote
Scrap pricing ignores construction entirely. If the cable has a legible print, get a cable number before signing the scale ticket.
Leaving it in the sun for years
Storage damage converts reusable cable into recovery material. The yard is not free storage; it is a slow discount.