If you’ve got scrap metal to sell, understanding where the market is headed can help you maximize your payout. Here’s the latest on 2025 scrap prices — and how to make the most when selling to Scrappy Iron & Metal Recycling.
Where Scrap Prices Stand Right Now
As of June 25, 2025, average U.S. scrap prices are:
- Iron & Steel: ~$298 / tonne
- Aluminium: ~$1,973 / tonne
- Copper: ~$8,807 / tonne
Prices have been steady this month — but changes are happening behind the scenes that could affect what you earn when you bring in your scrap.
What’s Impacting Scrap Prices This Year?
Steel & Iron: Why Prices Are Under Pressure
Steel mills have slowed down their buying, with U.S. ferrous scrap prices dropping over 15% since April. This means scrap steel and iron aren’t fetching the premiums sellers saw earlier this year.
💡 Tip: If you have large quantities of steel, now’s a good time to sell before potential further dips.
Aluminium: Higher Demand = Better Prices for Sellers
Aluminium is a bright spot. New U.S. tariffs on aluminium imports (tariffs jumped from 25% to 50%) are driving up demand for domestic aluminium scrap. That means if you’ve got aluminium siding, cans, or wheels, you could earn more than usual right now.
💡 Tip: Sort and clean your aluminium to get the best rate. Clean, pure aluminium always pays better!
Copper: Still in High Demand
Copper continues to be in strong demand thanks to electric vehicles, clean energy projects, and global shortages. Even with market ups and downs, copper scrap is holding its value — and smart sellers are cashing in.
💡 Tip: Got copper wires, pipes, or fittings? Now is a smart time to bring them in.
What Scrap Sellers Should Do Now
Lock in Good Rates Before Further Steel Price Drops
If you’ve got iron or steel scrap piling up, don’t wait too long — prices could soften even more if mills continue pulling back.
Focus on Non-Ferrous Scrap (Aluminium & Copper)
Both aluminium and copper are offering solid payouts. Clean, sorted scrap can mean extra cash in your pocket. At Scrappy Iron & Metal Recycling, we pay top dollar for quality non-ferrous materials.
Stay Informed on Market Changes
Policies like tariffs and export controls are changing the scrap game:
- The EU is looking at restricting scrap exports to keep more material local.
- The U.S. is protecting its metal producers, which keeps domestic demand high for certain types of scrap.
How to Get the Most When Selling to Scrappy Iron & Metal Recycling
- Sort your materials — separating steel, aluminium, copper, and brass boosts your payout.
- Remove contaminants — clean scrap earns more.
- Bring larger loads — bulk often means better rates.
- Ask our team about today’s best prices — we’re happy to help you time your sale for max value.
Contact us today or stop by our yard to see how much your scrap could be worth!
Final Takeaway
Even with some ups and downs in the market, now is a smart time to turn your scrap into cash — especially for aluminium and copper. At Scrappy Iron & Metal Recycling, we’re ready to help you get the best return.