How Much Is 1 Ton of Aluminum Worth?

Aluminum is a widely utilized metal found in countless applications, from aircraft components and automotive parts to beverage cans and construction materials. Its lightweight nature, corrosion resistance, and durability make it a valuable commodity in various industries. The worth of a ton of aluminum, however, is not fixed; it fluctuates based on a complex interplay of factors, impacting both primary aluminum and recycled scrap. Understanding these influences is essential for anyone looking to assess its market value.

Key Factors Influencing Price

Global commodity markets, particularly the London Metal Exchange (LME), establish benchmark prices for primary aluminum. These prices, influenced by energy and production costs, serve as a foundational reference point for the industry. While scrap aluminum typically trades at a discount, its value is indirectly influenced by primary aluminum prices, becoming a more valuable alternative when virgin materials are expensive.

Aluminum purity and grade fundamentally determine its price in the recycling market. Different grades, like clean aluminum scrap, mixed scrap, cast aluminum, or used beverage cans (UBCs), command varying prices based on purity and processing needs. Clean aluminum, free from contaminants, fetches a higher price due to minimal processing. Dirty aluminum, containing other materials, is priced lower due to the labor and cost of separation and cleaning.

The physical form and preparation of aluminum also impact its value. Forms like ingots, sheets, or extrusions may be valued differently than fragmented pieces or contaminated scrap. Properly sorted and cleaned aluminum, separated from other materials, consistently yields a higher price. Contaminants like paint, steel fittings, or oil substantially reduce worth, as their removal adds complexity and cost to recycling.

Supply and demand dynamics significantly influence aluminum pricing. Global industrial demand from sectors like automotive, construction, and packaging directly impacts prices. Economic conditions, geopolitical events, and supply chain disruptions cause fluctuations. Increased demand or shortages drive prices up, while economic downturns or reduced industrial activity lead to lower prices.

Geographic location and transportation costs affect the net price offered. Scrap yards account for material transport to processing facilities. Long-distance transportation or high regional business costs can lower the offered price to offset expenses. Energy costs for processing aluminum scrap also influence pricing, as higher energy prices lead to higher processing costs, reflected in prices paid for scrap.

Current Market Value Estimates

The London Metal Exchange (LME) provides a baseline for primary aluminum’s worth. As of late August 2025, the LME cash bid price was approximately $2,614 per metric ton (2,204.6 pounds). This represents raw, refined aluminum, distinct from scrap prices.

Scrap aluminum prices are considerably lower than primary aluminum and vary widely by purity, form, and market conditions. Clean aluminum scrap, like unpainted sheets or extrusions, fetches higher prices, typically $0.40 to $0.70 per pound. Used beverage cans (UBCs) command a moderate price, often $0.30 to $0.50 per pound, due to widespread acceptance and ease of processing.

More contaminated or mixed scrap, such as dirty extrusions or cast aluminum, yields lower prices, potentially $0.10 to $0.30 per pound. Clean alloy aluminum wheels often have a higher value, between $0.40 and $0.70 per pound. These prices are estimates and fluctuate daily based on local demand, global market trends, and recycling center policies.

For current and accurate pricing, contact local scrap metal recycling facilities or check reputable online scrap metal price websites. Many scrap yards update prices regularly, and some provide online tools or hotlines. Directly inquiring with local buyers ensures estimates reflect regional market conditions and specific grade requirements.

Practical Considerations for Selling Aluminum

To maximize value when selling aluminum scrap, first identify its type. Aluminum is non-magnetic, so a magnet test distinguishes it from ferrous metals like steel or iron. Visual inspection helps categorize aluminum, for instance, differentiating clean extrusions from rougher cast aluminum or thin used beverage cans.

Locating and contacting local scrap metal recycling facilities or buyers is essential. Many centers accept various forms of aluminum scrap and provide current pricing. Searching online for “scrap metal buyers” or “aluminum recycling near me” helps identify reputable facilities. Some larger facilities may offer pickup services for commercial quantities.

Preparing aluminum for sale by cleaning, sorting, and separating it from other materials significantly enhances its value. Removing non-aluminum components like steel screws, plastic, or insulation is crucial, as contaminants reduce purity and price. Sorting aluminum by type, such as separating clean sheets from cast aluminum or used beverage cans, also ensures the highest return. Clean, sorted aluminum requires less buyer processing, leading to a better price.

Understanding common payment methods at scrap yards is important. Facilities typically offer payment via check, direct deposit, or cash. For larger cash transactions exceeding $10,000, recycling centers are subject to federal reporting requirements, such as filing IRS Form 8300. This regulation aims to prevent illicit financial activities. Smaller transactions generally involve less stringent payment procedures, with many yards providing immediate payment upon weighing and grading.