Scrap Metal Prices Per Ton: A Complete Guide for Sellers

When you’re selling in bulk, scrap metal is measured not by the kilo but by the ton. Knowing the current per-ton scrap values is essential for getting fair returns—especially if you’re a contractor, industrial supplier, or recycler sitting on heavy loads of steel, copper, or aluminium.

But here’s the kicker: scrap metal prices per ton vary dramatically depending on the type of metal, its condition, and where you sell. Let’s unpack the latest ranges and show why ScrapTrade helps you secure the most competitive deals.

Current Scrap Metal Prices Per Ton

While exact rates shift with global demand and local supply, here’s a broad breakdown of average scrap metal values per ton (based on recent Australian and global market data):

• Steel Scrap: $100 – $300 per ton
• Stainless Steel: $700 – $1,500 per ton
• Aluminium: $1,500 – $2,500 per ton (clean, sorted)
• Copper: $6,000 – $9,000 per ton (high-grade, clean)
• Brass: $4,000 – $6,000 per ton
• Mixed Iron: $80 – $150 per ton

Note: These are indicative ranges. Prices depend heavily on quality, contamination, and regional demand.

Why Bulk Scrap is Priced Differently

Scrap yards often quote higher per-kilo rates for small, clean batches (especially copper). But when dealing with tons of material, buyers consider:

• Transport Costs: Heavy metals cost more to move.
• Sorting & Processing: Mixed loads lower per-ton rates.
• Market Fluctuations: A spike in global copper demand can push tonnage prices up in days.

This makes knowing your per-ton scrap value essential before closing a deal.

ScrapTrade: Smarter Selling by the Ton

Selling per ton can feel like a gamble—traditional yards may underpay, or you might waste hours negotiating. ScrapTrade changes the game.

Here’s how:

• Verified Buyers Compete: Instead of one yard quote, multiple buyers bid for your bulk scrap.
• Real-Time Market Analytics: See live trends and avoid underselling.
• Escrow-Protected Payments: Security you can trust for high-value, bulk transactions.
• Logistics Support: We help coordinate large-load transport—no headaches, no hidden costs.

It’s like turning your scrap tonnage into a mini-auction, with transparency baked in.

Bulk Scrap: Real-World Examples

• A demolition company in Melbourne selling 20 tons of mixed steel could get $2,400 at a yard—or 30% more through ScrapTrade, where buyers compete for clean loads.
• A Perth electrician with 1.5 tons of copper wiring could net nearly $12,000 instead of settling for flat yard rates.

That’s the power of scale when the right buyers are in play.

FAQs on Scrap Prices Per Ton

Q: Do smaller sellers benefit from per-ton pricing?
Yes, especially when grouped with others via ScrapTrade. Shared loads can unlock better rates.

Q: Which metals bring the best per-ton returns?
Copper and brass lead the way, followed by aluminium and stainless steel. Steel is lower in value but trades in volume.

Q: Should I clean and sort metals before selling?
Absolutely. A sorted ton of clean copper fetches much more than mixed or insulated scrap.

Conclusion: Don’t Settle for Yard Rates

Scrap metal prices per ton offer huge potential—but only if you’re plugged into the right marketplace. Yards give you fixed rates. ScrapTrade gives you competition, transparency, and better profits.

If you’re ready to turn bulk scrap into serious returns, explore our sell scrap page and see how verified buyers can outbid local yards for your next load.