Updated June 12, 2026 • ScrapMetalBuyers.com • All Guides
How Much Are Electric Motors Worth at the Scrap Yard? (2026 Prices)
Electric motors are one of the most common and valuable items in the scrapping world. Whether you have a small appliance motor or a massive industrial motor, here's exactly what to expect and how to maximize your payout.
Electric Motor Scrap Prices (2026)
Motor prices vary based on size, type, and whether you sell whole or stripped. Whole small motors (under 20 lbs) pay $0.15–$0.25/lb. Whole large motors (20–100 lbs) pay $0.20–$0.35/lb. Whole industrial motors (100+ lbs) pay $0.25–$0.40/lb. Stripped copper windings from motors pay $3.20–$3.80/lb (Copper #2 grade). Aluminum motor housings pay $0.50–$0.80/lb, and steel motor housings pay $0.05–$0.10/lb.
What's Inside an Electric Motor?
Copper windings (stator coils) make up 15–30% of total motor weight and are the high-value component. Steel laminations (rotor and stator core) make up 40–60% of weight at low ferrous value. Aluminum or cast iron housing accounts for 20–30% of weight at moderate value. Bearings, shaft, and hardware are a small percentage, mostly steel.
Should You Strip the Motor or Sell Whole?
Here's the math for a typical 50 lb industrial motor: sold whole at $0.30/lb × 50 lbs = $15. Stripped (approximately 12 lbs copper windings + 38 lbs steel/aluminum): ($3.50 × 12) + ($0.08 × 38) = $42 + $3 = $45. That's a $30 difference for 20–30 minutes of work on a large motor. For small motors under 10 lbs, just sell them whole — the labor isn't worth the copper recovery.
Where to Sell Industrial Motors for the Best Price
For large quantities of industrial motors from plant shutdowns, equipment upgrades, or HVAC replacements, ScrapMetalBuyers.com offers above-market pricing and free pickup. We buy electric motors in any quantity — from single units to full truckloads. Call 954-488-0700 for a same-day quote.
💰 What ScrapMetalBuyers.com Pays for Electric Motors
As of June 12, 2026 — Call 954-488-0700 to confirm current rates before delivery.| Motor Type / Component | Market Range | SMB Drop-Off Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Small Motors (under 20 lbs, whole) | $0.15 – $0.25/lb | Up to $0.30/lb |
| Large Motors (20–100 lbs, whole) | $0.20 – $0.35/lb | Up to $0.40/lb |
| Industrial Motors (100+ lbs, whole) | $0.25 – $0.40/lb | Up to $0.45/lb |
| Stripped Copper Windings | $3.20 – $3.80/lb | Up to $3.90/lb |
| Servo / VFD Motors (specialty) | Call for quote | Premium pricing |
ⓘ Drop-off rates apply when you deliver to a confirmed ScrapMetalBuyers.com U.S. location. Call 954-488-0700 to find your nearest drop-off point and lock in your price before you haul.
📍 Drop Off & Get Paid More
Did you know that sellers who deliver directly to one of our U.S. drop-off locations receive a premium above our standard pickup rate? We pass the logistics savings straight to you.
Drop-off locations are available across the United States. Contact us first so we can confirm the nearest location, verify your material, and lock in your price before you make the trip.
📞 Call 954-488-0700 to Find Your Drop-Off Location Get a Drop-Off Quote OnlineFrequently Asked Questions
Do scrap yards buy electric motors?
Yes. Every scrap yard accepts electric motors. They're one of the most common items processed. Prices vary by yard, so calling ahead is worthwhile for large quantities.
Are sealed motors worth more or less than open motors?
Sealed motors (like submersible pump motors) are harder to strip and typically sell for the same whole-motor price. Open-frame motors are easier to strip and may be worth the extra effort.
What about servo motors and variable frequency drives?
Servo motors and VFDs contain valuable electronic components beyond just copper. Specialized buyers like ScrapMetalBuyers.com pay premium prices for these items.
Can I sell a lot of 50+ motors at once?
Absolutely. Large motor lots are ideal for ScrapMetalBuyers.com — we offer free pickup, competitive pricing, and same-day payment for bulk motor purchases.
How do I strip copper windings from a motor?
Remove the end caps (usually 4 bolts), pull out the rotor, then use a hammer and chisel or angle grinder to cut the copper windings free from the steel laminations in the stator. Separate copper, steel, and aluminum housing into separate piles.
What is the difference between a motor and a generator for scrapping purposes?
Generators and motors have very similar internal construction — both contain copper windings, steel laminations, and a housing. They are priced the same way at most scrap yards and buyers.
Ready to Sell? Get a Same-Day Quote
Call us now or fill out our form. We respond within 2 hours, pay same-day, and handle all logistics at no cost to you.
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