What Is Scrap Copper Worth?

Scrap copper prices fluctuate.

Contractors are often left with a valuable commodity after completing a job. Scrap copper prices may fluctuate, but recycling scrap metals is almost always financially sound and also helps the environment.

Determine what you are selling.

Copper wire is classified as one of two types: #1 copper wire has no other metal contaminates and #2 copper wire is not "pure." It may have brass connectors, solder and plating.

Scrap value varies by who you are selling to.

You get a better return by cutting out any potential middlemen. Deal directly with the scrap metal processor for the best price. Resellers will pay less.

Look up the cost of copper online.

Raw copper prices are set by the London Metals Exchange (LME). Metalprices.com has a daily breakdown of all precious metal prices.

Factor in recycling costs.

The copper processor has business costs and a profit margin. You will always receive less per pound when recycling. A typical rule of thumb is recycled copper is worth half of the price copper is trading for on the LME.

Negotiate

Call several buyers for quotes and negotiate for the best deal. A difference of pennies per scrap pound quickly add up when selling tons of copper.

References

• Electrical Construction & Maintenance (EC&M) magazine: Maximizing the value of your scrap material

Resources

• Scrap metal prices