Eiffel 101: 6 Things to Consider When Selling W-Beams

Wide flange beams, also called W-beams, are a type of high-capacity steel foundation material used in temporary support work and structural foundations like the construction of bridges, highways, stadiums, and more. Due to the durability and longevity of steel, wide flange beams can be uninstalled and resold after use. Before listing your beams for sale, consider these tips to ensure you’re selling your materials profitably and effectively.

1. Consider the condition of your wide flange beams.

The condition of your used w-beams will influence your listing price. To determine the overall condition of your used wide flange beams, note the beams’ age, visual signs of wear, and whether there is corrosion or damage such as rusting, bends, holes, or dents. Wide flange beams in better condition can be sold for a price closer to the original cost, while older beams with more wear should be discounted.

2. Consider the location of your wide flange beams.

Wide flange beams are heavy, especially when sold in bulk. This can create logistical challenges and make freight expensive. If your beams are located near a central construction hub, you can expect more local demand for the materials and can therefore charge more. If you’re not in a central location, interested contractors will be factoring in the extra freight costs and transportation time, and they’ll likely pass over your wide flange beams if the price doesn’t reflect these added complexities. Before listing your wide flange beams, take your location into consideration and choose the price accordingly.

3. Consider the prior applications of your wide flange beams.

Often, buyers want to know the prior application of beams before purchase if it will potentially affect the integrity and longevity of the materials. For example, W-beams can be used in water environments, but salt water is typically more damaging to steel than fresh water, even if there is no visible corrosion. Additionally, beams driven in sand will typically have less wear and tear than beams driven in rocky soil. When listing your wide flange beams for sale, it’s useful to have the beams’ prior applications on hand.

4. Include the wide flange beams’ specs like length and width in the listing.

Wide flange beams come in a range of lengths, widths, thickness, grade, and coatings. Typically, W-beam that is 30 feet or longer is worth more than beams under 30 feet in length because longer beams are more popular. As you’re drafting your wide flange beams listing, help potential buyers narrow their search and filter out unnecessary inquiries by listing your beams’ exact specifications.

5. Provide photos of the wide flange beams uninstalled.

Buyers might hesitate to go through with a sale if they can’t view your wide flange beams in their entirety. To help make your beams more marketable, take photos of the material while they’re uninstalled. Be sure to take high quality photos in good daylight and aim to take multiple photos from different angles to ensure you’re showcasing the beams in their entirety. If you want to go the extra mile, take a video!

6. Set your wide flange beams at a competitive market price.

If you sell your wide flange beams at too low a price, it means you’re leaving money on the table, but if you price your beams too high, you may find you’re unable to sell them at all. In order to price your wide flange beams according to the market, start by estimating the value of your beams based on their age, visual signs of wear, corrosion, and damage. Wide flange beams in better condition can be sold for a price closer to the original cost, while older wide flange beams with more wear should be discounted. If you need help, Eiffel Trading has a team standing by and happy to help you price your beams most effectively. To get started, email sales@eiffeltrading.com or call us 1-800-541-7998.

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