How to Sell Industrial Equipment for Scrap
"We're upgrading our manufacturing line and have 15 old machines to get rid of — motors, gearboxes, steel frames, some copper wiring. What's the best approach?"
For industrial equipment, always get a commercial buyer to do an on-site appraisal before you start dismantling anything. The value is in the separation — copper wiring ($3.50–$4.00/lb), electric motors ($0.15–$0.35/lb), stainless components ($0.45–$0.85/lb), and steel frames ($0.05–$0.10/lb) all have different prices. Mixed loads get the steel price.
Get an Appraisal Before Dismantling
The biggest mistake with industrial equipment is dismantling before getting an appraisal. Some equipment has more value as used/rebuilt equipment than as scrap. A 50 HP electric motor might be worth $200 as scrap but $800 as a used motor. Always get a commercial buyer to walk the floor before you start cutting.
Industrial Equipment Scrap Value by Component
Electric motors (whole): $0.15–$0.35/lb. Copper wiring and bus bar: $3.50–$4.20/lb. Stainless steel components: $0.45–$0.85/lb. Aluminum components: $0.40–$0.70/lb. Steel frames and structures: $0.05–$0.10/lb. Gearboxes (whole): $0.10–$0.25/lb. Hydraulic cylinders (copper/brass fittings): $1.50–$2.50/lb for the fittings.
The Separation Strategy
Separate everything before the buyer arrives. Copper wiring pulled from steel conduit gets Bare Bright or #1 prices. Left in the conduit, it gets steel prices. The labor of separation is almost always worth it for copper and specialty metals.
Turnkey Removal for Large Lots
For 10+ machines or large industrial lots, negotiate a turnkey removal — the buyer handles all cutting, loading, and hauling. This saves significant labor costs and ensures proper separation for maximum value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I dismantle industrial equipment before selling?
Get an appraisal first — some equipment is worth more as used equipment than scrap. Then separate copper, motors, and specialty metals before the buyer arrives.
What is industrial equipment worth in scrap?
It depends on composition. Copper-heavy equipment (motors, transformers, switchgear) pays more than steel-heavy machinery. Get an on-site appraisal for accurate pricing.
Do you buy industrial equipment?
Yes. We do on-site appraisals and turnkey removal for industrial equipment lots. Call (754) 310-2984.
How do I maximize value from industrial equipment?
Separate copper wiring, motors, and specialty metals before selling. Get multiple quotes. Consider whether equipment has used/rebuilt value before scrapping.