Looking to make money from old metal items lying around your home, workshop, or job site? Before you head to a local yard, you might be wondering, “What are the current scrap prices near me?” While prices can vary by region and market trends, understanding how scrap pricing works can help you get the most value out of your materials.
???? What Affects Scrap Prices Near You?
Scrap prices change often, and several key factors play a role:
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Metal Type
Different metals have different values. Non-ferrous metals like copper and aluminum usually pay more than ferrous metals like iron or steel. -
Quality & Cleanliness
Clean, sorted scrap (free of dirt, paint, or plastic) earns higher rates. -
Global Market Trends
Prices for scrap metals are influenced by international supply and demand, especially in manufacturing and construction sectors. -
Location & Local Competition
More competition between scrap yards in your area can mean better pricing for sellers. -
Quantity
Larger volumes of scrap metal can sometimes earn bulk pricing or bonuses.
???? Typical Scrap Metal Price Ranges (Estimates)
Note: These are general ballpark figures. Always check with a local scrap yard for up-to-date rates near you.
| Metal Type | Price per kg (USD) | Price per ton (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Steel (light iron) | $0.10 – $0.20 | $100 – $200 |
| Cast Iron | $0.15 – $0.30 | $150 – $300 |
| Copper (bare bright) | $6.00 – $8.00 | $6,000 – $8,000 |
| Aluminum | $0.80 – $1.20 | $800 – $1,200 |
| Brass | $3.00 – $4.50 | $3,000 – $4,500 |
| Stainless Steel | $0.50 – $1.00 | $500 – $1,000 |
| Lead (battery grade) | $0.50 – $0.80 | $500 – $800 |
Prices may be quoted in local currencies depending on your location.
???? How to Check Scrap Prices Near Me
Here are a few ways to get the most accurate local pricing:
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Call Local Scrap Yards – Most yards will give you a current rate over the phone.
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Visit Yard Websites – Some recycling centers list daily or weekly updated prices online.
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Use Scrap Price Apps – Apps like iScrap or ScrapMonster offer pricing trends by location.
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Drive In and Ask – Visiting in person can sometimes lead to better deals, especially if you're selling a large load.
✔️ Tips to Maximize Your Scrap Profit
✅ Separate Metals – Keep copper, aluminum, brass, and steel separate.
✅ Strip Wires – Bare copper wires are worth more than insulated ones.
✅ Clean Your Scrap – Remove non-metal parts for better classification and pricing.
✅ Sell in Bulk – More weight often means better rates or bonus payments.
✅ Compare Rates – Don’t settle for the first offer—shop around!
Final Thoughts
Checking scrap prices near you is the smartest move before making a sale. Prices can shift from yard to yard and day to day, so a little research can lead to a much better payout.