Scrap Lead Prices — Batteries, Weights & Sheet Lead

We buy all forms of scrap lead — car batteries, forklift batteries, wheel weights, sheet lead, lead pipe, and radiation shielding. Lead is a consistently valuable scrap metal with strong recycling demand. Call Sean at 954-488-0700 for today's lead prices.

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$0.22–$0.55/lb
Current Price Range
30+
Years Buying Lead Scrap
48hr
Quote Response Time
USA
Nationwide Pickup
Scrap Lead — Current Lead Scrap Prices Per Pound 2026

Current Lead Scrap Prices

Prices updated regularly. Call 954-488-0700 for a confirmed quote on your specific material.

Grade / TypeDescriptionPrice
Soft Lead (Clean)Sheet, pipe, flashing — no attachments$0.50–$0.55/lb
Lead Wheel WeightsClip-on type, mixed with steel clips$0.25–$0.35/lb
Car BatteriesLead-acid automotive batteries$0.22–$0.28/lb
Forklift BatteriesIndustrial lead-acid, 1,000–4,000 lbs$0.16–$0.22/lb
Telecom / UPS BatteriesSealed lead-acid backup batteries$0.16–$0.24/lb
Lead Cable SheathingOld telephone cable covering$0.40–$0.50/lb
Radiation Shielding LeadHospital/dental X-ray room lead$0.45–$0.55/lb
Lead Shot / BallastFishing weights, shot, ballast$0.35–$0.45/lb

Lead is one of the most recycled metals in the world, with over 99% of lead-acid batteries being recycled in the United States. Its high density (11.34 g/cm³), low melting point, and excellent corrosion resistance make it valuable for batteries, radiation shielding, cable sheathing, and ballast applications. Despite environmental concerns that have reduced its use in new products, the recycling market for lead remains robust and prices are relatively stable.

Types of Lead Scrap We Buy

The largest source of scrap lead is lead-acid batteries — both automotive (car, truck, motorcycle) and industrial (forklift, UPS, telecom). These batteries contain lead plates, lead oxide paste, and sulfuric acid, and must be handled properly. We also buy soft lead in the form of sheet lead (roofing, flashing), lead pipe (old plumbing), cable sheathing (vintage telephone cables), radiation shielding (hospital and dental office demolitions), and wheel weights (automotive balancing weights).

Lead Battery Recycling

Lead-acid batteries are the single largest source of recycled lead. A standard car battery contains 18–25 lbs of lead and is worth $4–$7 as scrap. Industrial forklift batteries can weigh 1,000–4,000 lbs and contain significant lead value. We purchase batteries in any quantity — from single units to truckloads from fleet operations, data centers, and telecommunications facilities. All batteries must be intact with no acid leaks for safe transport.

Safety Considerations

Lead is a toxic heavy metal that requires proper handling. Always wear gloves when handling lead scrap, wash hands thoroughly afterward, and never eat, drink, or smoke while working with lead materials. Lead dust from cutting or grinding is particularly hazardous. We handle all logistics for large lead removal projects, including proper containment and transport in compliance with EPA and DOT regulations.

Market Factors for Lead Prices

Lead prices are driven primarily by the London Metal Exchange (LME) lead price, which reflects global supply and demand. The automotive industry's continued reliance on lead-acid batteries (even in hybrid vehicles) supports consistent demand. Secondary lead smelters compete for scrap supply, keeping prices relatively stable compared to more volatile metals like copper and nickel.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is scrap lead worth per pound?
Clean soft lead (sheet, pipe, flashing) currently pays $0.50–$0.55/lb. Lead batteries pay $0.16–$0.28/lb depending on type. Wheel weights pay $0.25–$0.35/lb. Call 954-488-0700 for a confirmed quote.
How much is a car battery worth as scrap?
A standard car battery weighs 30–40 lbs and is worth approximately $7–$11 as scrap at current lead prices. We buy batteries in any quantity.
Do you pick up lead batteries?
Yes — we offer free pickup for large quantities of lead-acid batteries (forklift batteries, UPS systems, telecom batteries). For smaller quantities of car batteries, we can direct you to a nearby drop-off location.
Is it legal to scrap lead?
Yes — lead recycling is legal and encouraged. However, lead-acid batteries are classified as hazardous waste and must be transported by licensed carriers. We handle all regulatory compliance for battery pickups.

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