Let's break down the current prices for different types of scrap metal and give you some tips on how to get the best value for your efforts.

Aluminium

Aluminium is one of the most commonly recycled metals because it's used in many everyday items, from soda cans to car parts. Right now, you can get anywhere from $0.70 to $3.00 per kilogram for aluminium scrap.

The price you'll get depends on things like how pure the aluminium is and whether it's mixed with other materials.

Copper

Copper is highly valuable in the scrap metal world because it's used in electrical wiring, plumbing, and many other applications. Scrap copper prices are quite high, ranging from $5.00 to $11.00 per kilogram.

Clean, pure copper will fetch the highest prices, while copper that's mixed with other metals or corroded will be worth less.

Brass

Brass is an alloy made from copper and zinc, and it's also quite valuable. Current prices for brass scrap range between $3.50 and $7.00 per kilogram.

As with other metals, the condition and composition of the brass will influence how much you can get for it.

Lead

Lead is another metal you can recycle for a decent amount of money—prices for lead scrap range from $1.00 to $2.00 per kilogram. Lead is often used in car batteries and protective shielding materials, so if you have old batteries lying around, they could be worth something.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is known for its resistance to rust and staining, and it's commonly used in kitchen appliances, cutlery, and industrial equipment. The prices for stainless steel scrap range from $0.75 to $2.00 per kilogram.

The type of stainless steel and its condition will affect the price.

Steel

Steel is one of the most recycled materials in the world because it's used in construction, automotive parts, and many other applications. Scrap steel prices range from $0.10 to $0.30 per kilogram.

While this may seem low compared to other metals, the sheer volume of steel available means you can still make a good amount of money.

What Affects Scrap Metal Prices?

Several factors can influence how much money you get for your scrap metal:

1. Type of Metal: Different metals have different values. Precious metals like copper and brass are worth more than common metals like steel.
2. Condition: Clean and pure metals will fetch higher prices. Metals that are mixed with other materials or are corroded will be worth less.
3. Location: Scrap metal prices can vary depending on where you are. Urban areas with more recycling facilities may offer better prices than rural areas.
4. Market Demand: Global demand for certain metals can affect prices. When demand is high, prices go up, and when demand is low, prices drop.

How to Get the Best Price for Your Scrap Metal

To make sure you get the most money for your scrap metal, follow these tips:

• Sort and Clean Your Scrap: Separate different types of metals and clean them to remove any dirt, paint, or other non-metallic materials. This makes your scrap more valuable.
• Check Current Prices: Prices can change frequently, so stay updated with the latest rates by contacting local scrap dealers or checking online resources.
• Compare Offers: Don’t settle for the first offer you get. Call around to different scrap yards and compare prices to ensure you're getting the best deal.
• Know What You Have: Understand the type and quality of the metals you sell. Knowing whether you have pure copper or mixed metals can help you negotiate a better price.

Why Recycle Scrap Metal?

Recycling scrap metal is not just about making money. It's also great for the environment.

When you recycle metal, it reduces the need for mining new materials, which can be harmful to the planet. Recycling also uses less energy than producing new metal from raw materials, which helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Where to Sell Scrap Metal

There are many places where you can sell scrap metal in Australia. Here are a few options:

• Local Scrap Yards: These are the most common places to sell scrap metal. They often pay cash and can quickly give you a quote based on the current market prices.
• Recycling Centers: Some recycling centres accept scrap metal and may offer competitive prices.
• Online Marketplaces: Websites like Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace allow you to sell scrap metal directly to buyers, sometimes at a higher price than scrap yards.

Recycling scrap metal is a smart way to make extra money and help the environment. By understanding the current prices and what affects them, you can maximise your earnings.

Whether you have old car parts, kitchen appliances, or just a pile of scrap metal, there's money to be made. For the best prices, remember to sort and clean your items, and contact Dream Lucky Scrap Metal in Perth for scrap metal recycling in Western Australia (WA).

Happy recycling!