Explain where the material comes from
Begin with the activity that produces the plastic: for example, manufacturing offcuts, redundant packaging or products at the end of their use. Record the polymer or original grade where it is known. If it is uncertain, say so and provide any moulded markings, labels or supplier paperwork that may help identify it.
Describe whether the stream is a single material or a mixture. Note any liners, labels, coatings, fillers or attached components. A useful enquiry distinguishes what has been confirmed from what has only been assumed. That gives the assessor a clearer basis for deciding which questions or samples are needed next.
Show the material as it is stored
Provide a close photograph of the plastic and a wider view of the whole load or storage area. Include representative examples of variation, rather than selecting only the cleanest items. State whether the material is loose, baled, on reels, in containers or already reduced to regrind or flakes.
Declare known dirt, moisture, food residue, oils, chemicals, metal and other plastics. Sorting and cleaning are important parts of mechanical recycling, but their suitability depends on the stream and available process. Do not invest in washing, shredding or changing the presentation solely for a proposed outlet until the receiving specification has been agreed.
Make the quantity and collection practical
Use measured weights where available and label estimates clearly. A regular production stream and a one-off clearance need different commercial discussions, even if their current quantities are similar.
A few accurate operational details can prevent a technically suitable enquiry from stalling over loading or transport. Photographs of packed material are particularly helpful when the number of containers does not give a reliable indication of weight.
- Approximate tonnes or kilograms available now.
- Expected frequency and future quantity, if recurring.
- Site postcode and any collection-time restrictions.
- Bale, bag, reel or container dimensions where relevant.
- Available loading equipment and vehicle-access constraints.
Keep the material identifiable
Give the enquiry a simple material reference and use it on photographs, sample labels and supporting documents. Keep different sources identifiable while an assessment is underway. If the composition or presentation changes, update the description instead of treating the original information as covering every future load.
Before dispatch, obtain confirmation of the material description, quantity, presentation and delivery arrangements. An initial discussion or photograph review is not a delivery booking. This approach keeps the enquiry useful without assuming that every plastic stream has an agreed recycling route.