Scrap Metal Prices Explained: What Drives the Market
24 June 2026"How much is my scrap worth?" is the question we hear most — and the honest answer is: it depends, and it changes daily. Here's what actually drives the price you're paid.
The London Metal Exchange (LME)
Most non-ferrous metals are benchmarked against the London Metal Exchange, which sets a global price that moves every trading day. When the LME copper or aluminium price rises or falls, scrap prices follow.
Grade and cleanliness
Within each metal, grade is everything. Bright bare copper pays more than braziery; clean aluminium extrusion pays more than mixed, painted sheet. The cleaner and more single-grade your material, the closer to market you'll be paid.
Quantity and consistency
- Larger, single-grade loads attract better rates
- Regular, consistent supply can secure trade pricing
- Mixed or contaminated loads need sorting, which lowers the rate
Supply and demand
Domestic mill demand, export markets, energy prices and even shipping costs all feed into the final number. That's why we quote on the day rather than publishing a fixed price list.
How to get the best price
Separate your grades where you can, keep material clean and free of attachments, and send us a photo with a rough weight. We'll give you a current, transparent quote based on auditable weighing.
Related: learn more on the metals we buy.
Need a quote or a collection?
Call, WhatsApp a photo, or send us the details for a fast, fair price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won't you give a fixed price per kg online?
Because prices move daily with the LME and depend on grade, cleanliness and quantity. A fixed online figure would be misleading — we quote on the day for accuracy.
How can I get a better rate?
Separate your metals by grade, keep them clean and free of attachments, and offer larger single-grade loads where possible.
Do you price insulated cable?
Yes — cable is priced on its recoverable copper or aluminium content. Send a photo for an accurate quote.
