Scrap Steel Prices — We Buy All Grades

We buy all grades of scrap steel — HMS 1 & 2, structural steel, plate, sheet, rebar, auto bodies, and more. Whether you have a truckload or an entire plant shutdown, we pay top dollar for ferrous scrap. Call Sean at 954-488-0700 for today's scrap steel prices.

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$0.05–$0.12/lb
Current Price Range
30+
Years Buying Steel Scrap
48hr
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USA
Nationwide Pickup
Scrap Steel — Current Steel Scrap Prices Per Pound 2026

Current Steel Scrap Prices

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

Grade / TypeDescriptionPrice
#1 Heavy Melting Steel (HMS)Clean, 1/4" minimum thickness$0.10–$0.12/lb
#2 Heavy Melting Steel (HMS)Mixed, lighter gauge$0.08–$0.10/lb
Plate & Structural SteelI-beams, channels, plate 1/4"+$0.10–$0.12/lb
Sheet Steel / TinAppliances, ductwork, light gauge$0.05–$0.07/lb
Rebar / RodConstruction rebar, tie wire$0.08–$0.10/lb
Auto Bodies / VehiclesDrained, titled$0.06–$0.09/lb
Cast IronBrake drums, engine blocks, pipe$0.08–$0.10/lb
Stainless-Bearing SteelMixed with stainless attachments$0.12–$0.18/lb

Steel is the most widely recycled material in the world, with over 80 million tons processed annually in the United States alone. As a ferrous metal, steel is magnetic and will rust over time when exposed to moisture, making it easy to identify compared to non-ferrous metals like copper and aluminum. Despite its lower per-pound value compared to non-ferrous metals, steel scrap generates significant revenue when sold in bulk quantities — which is exactly what we specialize in.

Understanding Steel Scrap Grades

The scrap steel market uses a grading system established by the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI). The most common grades include HMS 1 (Heavy Melting Steel #1), which consists of wrought iron and steel scrap at least 1/4 inch thick and no larger than 5 feet in any dimension. HMS 2 includes lighter-gauge material such as sheet metal, auto body panels, and lighter structural components. Plate and Structural (P&S) steel commands a premium because it requires less processing at the mill.

What Affects Scrap Steel Prices?

Scrap steel prices are driven by global demand from steel mills, particularly in China, Turkey, and Southeast Asia. Domestic factors include construction activity, automotive production, and infrastructure spending. Prices are quoted per gross ton (2,240 lbs) or per net ton (2,000 lbs) for bulk transactions, and per pound for smaller quantities. The current market price for scrap steel fluctuates based on the Chicago Midwest #1 Busheling index and the Turkish HMS 80:20 export price.

How to Maximize Your Scrap Steel Value

To get the best price for your scrap steel, separate it from non-ferrous metals (copper, aluminum, brass), remove any attachments like concrete, wood, or plastic, and accumulate enough volume to justify a pickup. We offer free pickup for loads of 5,000 lbs or more. For smaller quantities, you can deliver to one of our partner drop-off locations across the United States. Industrial accounts with regular steel scrap generation should contact us about container placement and scheduled pickups.

Common Sources of Scrap Steel

Scrap steel comes from demolition projects (structural beams, rebar, roofing), manufacturing waste (punchings, stampings, turnings), end-of-life vehicles, appliances (washers, dryers, refrigerators after Freon removal), industrial equipment, shipping containers, railroad materials, and agricultural equipment. Plant shutdowns and facility decommissions often produce tens of thousands of pounds of steel scrap that we purchase in a single transaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current price of scrap steel per pound?
Scrap steel currently pays between $0.05 and $0.12 per pound depending on grade, thickness, and preparation. HMS 1 (heavy melting steel) pays the most at $0.10–$0.12/lb, while light gauge sheet steel pays $0.05–$0.07/lb. Call 954-488-0700 for a confirmed quote on your specific material.
How much is scrap steel worth per ton?
Scrap steel is worth approximately $100–$240 per ton depending on grade. #1 HMS typically trades at $200–$240/ton, while mixed steel and tin trades at $100–$140/ton. Prices change weekly based on mill demand.
Do you pick up scrap steel for free?
Yes — we offer free pickup for scrap steel loads of 5,000 lbs (2.5 tons) or more anywhere in the continental United States. For smaller loads, we can direct you to a nearby drop-off location. Call 954-488-0700 to arrange pickup.
What is the difference between HMS 1 and HMS 2 steel?
HMS 1 (Heavy Melting Steel #1) is at least 1/4 inch thick and no larger than 5 feet in any dimension — think plate, structural beams, and heavy pipe. HMS 2 is lighter material like sheet metal, auto bodies, and lighter structural components. HMS 1 pays more per pound because it requires less processing.
Is cast iron worth more than regular steel scrap?
Yes — cast iron typically pays slightly more than regular steel because of its higher carbon content and density. Brake drums, engine blocks, cast iron pipe, and bathtubs are common sources. Expect $0.08–$0.10/lb for clean cast iron.

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