Published July 07, 2026 • ScrapMetalBuyers.com

Complete Guide to Scrap Metal Prices by Type (2026)

Understanding scrap metal prices by type is essential for anyone looking to sell scrap metal in 2026. Whether you have a truckload of steel beams from a demolition project or a handful of copper pipes from a plumbing renovation, knowing the current market value ensures you get a fair deal. This comprehensive guide covers every major scrap metal category with current pricing, market trends, and tips for maximizing your return.

At ScrapMetalBuyers.com, we purchase all types of scrap metal nationwide. Call 954-488-0700 for a same-day quote on any quantity.

Quick Price Comparison: All Scrap Metals (July 2026)

Ferrous Metals: Steel & Iron

Ferrous metals (those containing iron) make up the bulk of scrap metal by volume. While they command lower per-pound prices than non-ferrous metals, the sheer volume available makes them a significant revenue source for demolition contractors, manufacturers, and construction companies.

Scrap Steel Prices

Steel is the most recycled material on Earth. In 2026, scrap steel prices range from $0.04 to $0.12 per pound depending on the grade. Heavy Melting Steel (HMS) #1 — the most commonly traded grade — averages $0.06-$0.08 per pound. Prepared steel (cut to size, free of attachments) commands a premium at $0.08-$0.12/lb. The steel market is heavily influenced by global demand from China, infrastructure spending, and automotive production. View our complete steel pricing guide →

Scrap Iron Prices

Cast iron and wrought iron scrap typically trade at $0.03-$0.08 per pound. Common sources include old radiators, engine blocks, bathtubs, and industrial machinery. Cast iron is heavier and more brittle than steel, making it easy to identify. Despite lower per-pound values, iron scrap is abundant and yards accept it readily. View our complete iron pricing guide →

Non-Ferrous Metals: Copper, Aluminum & More

Non-ferrous metals (those without iron) are significantly more valuable per pound. Copper, aluminum, brass, and stainless steel are the "big four" that most scrappers focus on for maximum profit.

Scrap Copper Prices

Copper remains the king of scrap metals for individual sellers. #1 Bare Bright copper wire commands $3.80-$4.20 per pound in 2026, making it one of the most valuable common metals. Even #2 copper (with some oxidation or solder) fetches $3.40-$3.70/lb. Sources include electrical wire, plumbing pipes, HVAC coils, and transformers. View our complete copper pricing guide →

Scrap Aluminum Prices

Aluminum is lightweight and ubiquitous, found in everything from beverage cans to aircraft components. Clean aluminum sheet trades at $0.60-$0.85/lb, while cast aluminum averages $0.35-$0.50/lb. Extrusions (window frames, structural pieces) command $0.55-$0.75/lb. View our complete aluminum pricing guide →

Scrap Brass Prices

Brass — an alloy of copper and zinc — is highly sought after in the scrap market. Yellow brass (the most common type, found in plumbing fixtures and valve bodies) trades at $1.80-$2.20/lb, while red brass (higher copper content) commands $2.20-$2.60/lb. View our complete brass pricing guide →

Scrap Stainless Steel Prices

Stainless steel varies widely in value depending on the grade. 304 stainless (the most common, used in kitchen equipment and food processing) averages $0.55-$0.80/lb. 316 stainless (marine grade, higher nickel content) commands $0.80-$1.20/lb. View our complete stainless steel pricing guide →

Specialty & High-Value Metals

Specialty metals command premium prices but are found in smaller quantities. These include nickel alloys, tin, platinum group metals, and others used in aerospace, electronics, and chemical processing.

Scrap Nickel Prices

Nickel and nickel alloys (Inconel, Monel, Hastelloy) are among the most valuable industrial scrap metals. Pure nickel scrap averages $3.50-$5.00/lb, while high-nickel superalloys like Inconel 718 can fetch $8-$15/lb. Common sources include turbine blades, chemical processing equipment, and marine hardware. View our complete nickel pricing guide →

Scrap Tin Prices

Tin is less common in the scrap stream but commands strong prices at $5.00-$12.00/lb for pure block tin. Tin solder, tin-plated steel (tin cans), and babbitt metal are the most common sources. Note that "tin cans" are actually steel with a thin tin coating and are worth steel prices, not tin prices. View our complete tin pricing guide →

Scrap Bronze Prices

Bronze (copper-tin alloy) is commonly found in bearings, bushings, ship propellers, and statuary. Prices range from $1.60-$2.40/lb depending on the alloy composition. Manganese bronze and phosphor bronze command the highest premiums. View our complete bronze pricing guide →

Scrap Lead Prices

Lead scrap trades at $0.40-$0.65/lb. The primary source is used lead-acid batteries (car batteries), which account for over 80% of lead recycling. Wheel weights, cable sheathing, and radiation shielding are other common sources. Lead requires careful handling due to toxicity. View our complete lead pricing guide →

Scrap Zinc Prices

Zinc scrap averages $0.45-$0.70/lb. Common sources include die-cast parts (carburetor bodies, door handles), galvanized steel coatings, and zinc anodes. Old zinc (mixed zinc alloys) is the most commonly traded grade. View our complete zinc pricing guide →

Scrap Platinum Prices

Platinum is the most valuable common scrap metal at $28-$32/lb. It is primarily found in catalytic converters, laboratory equipment, jewelry, and industrial electrodes. Catalytic converter recycling is heavily regulated — always work with licensed buyers. View our complete platinum pricing guide →

How to Get the Best Price for Your Scrap Metal

1. Sort and separate — Never mix metals. Sorted loads always command higher prices than mixed/unsorted material.
2. Clean your material — Remove attachments, insulation, and contaminants. Clean copper pays 20-30% more than insulated wire.
3. Know your grades — Learn the difference between #1 and #2 copper, or 304 vs 316 stainless. Grade knowledge = more money.
4. Check current prices — Metal prices fluctuate daily. Use our current prices page or call for a live quote.
5. Sell in bulk — Larger quantities command better per-pound rates. Accumulate material when possible.
6. Get multiple quotes — Compare offers from different buyers. At ScrapMetalBuyers.com, we guarantee competitive pricing.

Why Choose ScrapMetalBuyers.com?

• All metals accepted — We buy every type listed above, plus exotic alloys and specialty metals
• Free commercial pickup — No transportation costs for qualifying loads
• Same-day quotes — Call 954-488-0700 and get a price within minutes
• Nationwide service — We serve all 50 states
• Transparent pricing — No hidden fees, no bait-and-switch
• AI-powered assistance — Use our chatbot for instant price estimates 24/7

Frequently Asked Questions

What scrap metal is worth the most per pound in 2026?

Platinum scrap is the most valuable at $28-$32 per pound, followed by palladium. Among common metals, copper (#1 bare bright) commands the highest price at $3.80-$4.20 per pound. Nickel alloys like Inconel can fetch $8-$15/lb.

How much is scrap steel worth per pound?

Scrap steel prices range from $0.04-$0.12 per pound depending on grade. Heavy melting steel (HMS) averages $0.06-$0.08/lb, while prepared steel commands $0.08-$0.12/lb. See our full steel pricing breakdown →

Where can I sell scrap metal near me?

ScrapMetalBuyers.com offers nationwide scrap metal purchasing with free commercial pickup for qualifying loads. Call 954-488-0700 for a same-day quote on any quantity, any metal type.

Do scrap metal prices change daily?

Yes, scrap metal prices fluctuate based on global commodity markets, supply and demand, and economic conditions. We recommend calling for a live quote on the day you plan to sell. Our current prices page is updated regularly.

What is the minimum quantity you accept?

We accept any quantity from a few pounds to thousands of tons. Free pickup is available for commercial-sized loads (typically 500+ lbs). Smaller quantities can be dropped off at partner locations.

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