How Much Is Scrap Aluminum Per Pound?

Aluminum is a widely recycled material, valued for its durability and versatility across numerous industries. Its lightweight nature and resistance to corrosion make it a preferred choice for everything from beverage cans to automotive parts and construction materials. Understanding the market for scrap aluminum can provide insights into its economic value and the benefits of its recycling. This article explores the current market value of scrap aluminum, the various factors that influence its price, and the practical steps involved in selling it.

Current Market Value for Aluminum Scrap

The value of scrap aluminum fluctuates frequently. Prices are influenced by supply and demand, economic indicators, and regional market conditions. Exact figures vary daily and by location, but general price ranges exist for common types of aluminum scrap.

Used Beverage Cans (UBCs), a common form of scrap aluminum, fetch prices ranging from approximately $0.45 to $0.75 per pound. These cans are consistently in demand due to their high recyclability and ease of processing into new products. Clean aluminum extrusions, found in window frames and structural tubing, command higher prices, ranging from about $0.70 to $1.10 per pound, depending on purity.

Cast aluminum, sourced from automotive parts or old grills, falls within $0.45 to $0.68 per pound. Clean aluminum sheet, found in various applications, can range from $0.50 to $0.70 per pound. These prices are indicative; contact local scrap yards for current rates.

Factors Affecting Aluminum Scrap Value

Several elements contribute to variations in the price of aluminum scrap. Understanding these factors helps sellers assess material value. The specific classification of aluminum, its purity, broader market trends, and local economic conditions all play a role.

Different aluminum scrap types have distinct characteristics influencing value:
Used Beverage Cans (UBCs) are made from specific alloys (e.g., 3004 or 5052) easily recyclable into new cans.
Aluminum extrusions, such as those from window and door frames, often consist of 6061 or 6063 alloys, valued for structural properties and recycled into new architectural components.
Cast aluminum, commonly found in engine blocks or transmission housings, uses alloys suitable for molding, affecting processing requirements and market price.
EC wire (electrical conductor wire) is sought after for its high purity and conductivity.
Aluminum sheet and siding, common in construction and manufacturing, have value determined by their alloy composition and condition.

The presence of contaminants impacts the value of aluminum scrap. Clean materials fetch the best prices, as scrap yards pay less for metal requiring additional processing. Contamination includes non-aluminum metals (like steel) and non-metallic substances (like plastic, rubber, dirt, or excessive paint). For instance, painted extrusions or those with attachments are graded lower than clean, unpainted ones. Dirty or mixed scrap costs more for recyclers to sort and purify, reducing seller payout.

Broader market dynamics influence aluminum prices. Global supply and demand, economic indicators like Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth, and energy prices contribute to price volatility. High demand from automotive, aerospace, and construction industries drives prices up; increased supply or reduced industrial activity leads to declines. Geopolitical events and international trade policies can disrupt supply chains, impacting global aluminum availability and cost.

Local market conditions add complexity to scrap aluminum pricing. Prices vary regionally due to local demand, competing scrap yards, and transportation costs. Yards in areas with higher industrial activity or competition may offer more competitive rates. Transportation costs also play a role; longer distances or higher fuel costs reduce seller payout.

Selling Your Aluminum Scrap

Selling aluminum scrap involves practical steps for a smooth, profitable transaction. Properly prepared materials and understanding the recycling process maximize return.

Preparation is crucial before taking aluminum to a scrap yard. Sorting aluminum by type and ensuring it is contaminant-free is essential for best prices. Removing non-metallic attachments (like plastic or rubber) and separating alloys increases load value. Knowing your material’s weight and type is beneficial when contacting buyers.

Locating a reputable buyer is the next step. Find local scrap yards, recycling centers, or metal recyclers through online searches, directories, or mapping applications. Contact several facilities to inquire about current prices for your aluminum, as rates vary. Some yards may specialize in certain materials or offer better prices for larger quantities.

When arriving at a scrap yard, expect a standardized selling process. Most scrap yards require valid, government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or state ID. This prevents metal theft and ensures recycling stream accountability. Your scrap will be weighed using certified scales and assessed for type and purity by yard personnel. Payment methods commonly include checks; some facilities offer cash for smaller transactions.

To facilitate a smooth transaction, call the scrap yard ahead to confirm operating hours and pricing. Inquiring about requirements, like minimum weight limits or preferred preparation, prevents delays. Understanding the weighing process and observing material assessment provides transaction fairness assurance.