How Much Does Copper Scrap Sell For? And How to Sell It

Copper, a versatile and highly conductive metal, plays a significant role in various industries, making its scrap a valuable commodity in the recycling market. Recycling copper scrap conserves natural resources and reduces energy consumption. The value of copper scrap fluctuates based on numerous factors, including global economic conditions and the specific characteristics of the scrap itself.

Current Market Value of Copper Scrap

The market value of copper scrap is primarily driven by its status as a global commodity, reflecting broader economic forces. Prices are subject to supply and demand; high industrial production and construction activities typically increase demand, pushing prices upward. Conversely, economic slowdowns can lead to reduced demand and lower scrap prices.

Global copper prices, particularly on major commodity exchanges like the London Metal Exchange, significantly impact scrap values. When refined copper prices rise, scrap values generally follow. Trade policies, import/export restrictions, and geopolitical events can also disrupt supply chains and affect pricing.

As of August 21, 2025, #1 Bare Bright Copper, a high-purity grade, trades around $3.70 to $4.00 per pound in some locations. Other grades, such as #1 Copper Tubing, range from $3.40 to $3.90 per pound, while #2 Copper Tubing can be found between $3.20 and $3.35 per pound.

Identifying Copper Scrap Grades

The value of copper scrap depends heavily on its grade, which reflects its purity and form. Recognizing these distinctions is crucial for maximizing returns. Bare Bright Copper, also known as “Bare Bright Wire,” represents the highest value. This grade consists of clean, unalloyed, uncoated, and uninsulated copper wire, typically 16 gauge or thicker, with a bright, shiny appearance. Its high purity requires minimal processing for recycling.

Following Bare Bright are #1 Copper and #2 Copper. #1 Copper includes clean, unalloyed, and uncoated copper tubing, pipe, or bus bar, free from solder, paint, or excessive oxidation. This grade usually has a minimum copper content of 99.5%. #2 Copper encompasses unalloyed copper that may have minor impurities, such as light coatings, solder, or some oxidation. It typically includes copper pipe with fittings or burnt copper wire that is not excessively brittle, with copper content generally around 96-98%.

Insulated copper wires also constitute a significant portion of copper scrap, with value depending on copper recovery percentage and insulation type. Examples include #1 Insulated Wire, often found in electrical wiring (like THHN), which has a high copper recovery rate, typically 70-85%. Romex wire, a common non-metallic sheathed cable, has a lower copper recovery, often around 60-65%. Communications wire and low-yield insulated wires, such as those from Christmas lights, have even lower copper content, often below 50%, significantly impacting their value. Other forms include sheet copper, found in roofing or flashing, and various copper alloys like yellow brass (containing zinc) or red brass (containing tin), which command different prices due to their mixed composition.

Preparing Copper Scrap for Sale

Proper preparation of copper scrap before selling can significantly enhance its value. Sorting different grades of copper is a primary step, as mixing higher-value material with lower-value material will result in the entire lot being downgraded. Separating bare bright wire from insulated wire or distinguishing #1 copper tubing from #2 copper with fittings ensures each type receives appropriate valuation.

Removing non-copper contaminants is important. Materials like plastic, steel, insulation, or other metals attached to copper can reduce its purity and market price. Stripping insulation from copper wire, when feasible and safe, often upgrades it to a higher, more valuable category like Bare Bright or #1 Copper. This process involves carefully removing the outer sheathing and internal insulation to expose the clean copper conductor.

However, the decision to strip insulation should consider the labor involved versus the potential increase in value, as some low-yield wires may not justify the effort. Wires with very thin strands or low copper content might be more efficiently sold as insulated wire. For copper tubing or pipe, ensuring it is free of brass fittings, solder, or excessive paint will help it qualify for higher grades. Cleanliness and absence of foreign materials are important for achieving top dollar for copper scrap.

Selling Copper Scrap

When ready to sell copper scrap, locating a reputable local scrap yard is the initial step. These facilities process and purchase various metal types, including copper. Many scrap yards have websites or offer phone services where current pricing information might be available, which is helpful to check before visiting.

Upon arrival, the material will typically undergo a weighing process, often on a certified scale. Following weighing, a visual inspection by yard personnel determines the specific grade of copper based on its purity and form. Payment methods commonly vary, including checks, electronic transfers, or cash. Cash payments for scrap metal transactions are often subject to state-specific regulations and reporting requirements.

It is advisable to inquire about specific grading criteria and required documentation before arriving at the scrap yard to ensure a smooth transaction. Some facilities may require a valid government-issued identification for transactions, particularly for larger amounts, to comply with local regulations designed to prevent metal theft.