What Is the Scrap Price for Aluminum?

Aluminum is a widely recycled material, important for resource conservation and energy efficiency. Its lightweight yet durable properties make it valuable across numerous industries, creating continuous demand for new and recycled forms. Aluminum scrap is commonly available, from household items to industrial byproducts. Recycling aluminum uses 95% less energy than producing new aluminum from raw materials, making it an environmentally sound practice with economic benefits.

Forms of Aluminum Scrap and Their Value

Aluminum scrap comes in various forms, with varying characteristics that influence its value. Common household items include used beverage cans (UBCs), which are easily recognizable and frequently recycled. Beyond cans, aluminum is found in construction materials like siding, gutters, and window frames, as well as in automotive parts such as clean wheel rims and engine components.

The value of aluminum scrap depends on its purity, alloy content, and the presence of contaminants. For instance, “clean” aluminum, free from other metals, paint, or non-metallic attachments like plastic or rubber, sells for more. Aluminum extrusions, often found in window frames, are more valuable when bare compared to coated or anodized versions. Conversely, “dirty” aluminum, mixed with other materials, receives a lower price due to additional processing.

Different aluminum alloys also have varying values; for example, the 1xxx series, which is 99% pure aluminum, fetches the highest price. Prices for common aluminum scrap can range from approximately $0.03 per pound for heavily contaminated forms like shavings or dirty cast aluminum, up to $3.00 per pound for clean aluminum wheel rims. Used beverage cans often fall in the range of $0.55 to $0.75 per pound, due to their consistent composition and ease of recycling.

Key Factors Determining Scrap Prices

The price offered for aluminum scrap is influenced by economic forces and material attributes. Global supply and demand for aluminum are key drivers, with increased demand often raising prices. Economic conditions, including industrial output and growth in sectors like automotive and construction, impact aluminum consumption and the value of recycled material.

The price of new, or primary, aluminum also influences prices; when primary aluminum production costs rise, recycled aluminum becomes more attractive, increasing its value. Energy prices are another factor, as the cost of processing and transporting scrap metal affects the overall profitability for recyclers. Seasonal fluctuations also influence prices, with demand increasing during warmer months due to higher construction activity.

Beyond these market dynamics, the purity and quantity of the aluminum scrap affect the price. Material that is sorted and free of contaminants requires less processing, resulting in a higher price. Larger quantities of sorted, clean aluminum lead to better pricing, as they offer greater efficiency for buyers. Local market conditions, such as the number of scrap yards in an area and their operational costs, contribute to price variations.

Preparing and Selling Your Aluminum Scrap

To maximize the value of aluminum scrap, preparation is important before visiting a recycling facility. Begin by sorting aluminum items from other materials, using a magnet to distinguish non-ferrous aluminum from ferrous metals like steel or iron. Non-magnetic items are generally non-ferrous and often more valuable. Cleaning aluminum is advised; for example, rinsing used beverage cans to remove food residue or dirt.

Removing non-aluminum attachments, such as plastic caps, rubber seals, screws, or insulation from wires, enhances purity and value. For bulky items, disassembling them into smaller, manageable pieces facilitates transportation and processing. While not always necessary, flattening aluminum cans can save space during storage and transport, making the load more efficient for the recycler.

When ready to sell, locate local scrap yards or recycling centers and contact them in advance to inquire about their acceptance policies and prices. Upon arrival, the material will be weighed on certified scales, and the price will be calculated based on the weight and the prevailing rates for that type and grade of aluminum. Sellers are required to present a valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license, and may need to provide vehicle information for records. Many facilities no longer pay in cash for scrap metal transactions, instead opting for electronic payments, checks, or prepaid cards to ensure traceability and prevent theft.