Scrap metal is like hidden treasure in plain sight — your old wiring, pipes, appliances, and machinery can become cash when you choose the right material and the right marketplace. Some metals are far more valuable than others, and understanding which ones fetch the best prices can make a big difference when you sell scrap online or locally.
Below, we’ll explore the best scrap metal to sell, how value is determined, and where to get the most competitive offers — especially using ScrapTrade – Australia’s Online Scrap Trading Marketplace.
Why Some Scrap Metals Are Worth More
Metals are priced based on demand, rarity, and recyclability. Non‑ferrous metals — those that don’t contain iron — usually cost more because they’re used in electronics, construction, and manufacturing and are easier to recycle into new products. Ferrous metals (like ordinary steel) are still recyclable, but they’re more common and usually lower value.
Top‑Value Scrap Metals to Sell
1. Copper
Copper sits near the top of the value chart for scrap metals. It’s widely used in electrical wiring, plumbing, motors, and industrial equipment. Because it’s highly reusable and always in demand, copper often earns the best price per kilogram.
Whether you have bare bright wire, insulated cable, or copper pipes, separating and cleaning your copper before selling boosts the price you’ll get.
2. Brass
Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, commonly found in plumbing fixtures, gears, and musical instruments. Because it contains a high percentage of copper, brass commands strong rates close to copper prices.
3. Aluminium
Aluminium from cans, siding, window frames, car parts, and cookware is lightweight yet valuable. While not as high as copper, aluminium is still a top‑tier scrap metal because it’s endlessly recyclable with low energy input.
4. Stainless Steel
Found in appliances, kitchenware, and architectural fittings, stainless steel includes valuable alloying elements like nickel and chromium. High‑grade stainless (e.g., 304, 316) usually pays better than generic steel.
5. Lead
Lead appears in old batteries, roofing materials, and some industrial gear. Scrap lead can still carry a decent rate, especially in battery recycling streams, though safety precautions are important due to toxicity.
6. Precious Metals (Gold, Silver, Platinum)
While tiny amounts often stay locked in electronics or catalytic converters, precious metals are rare — and consequently highly valuable. Extracting them often involves specialized recyclers or e‑waste buyers.
7. Electric Motors & Transformers
These aren’t pure metal but often contain valuable copper windings and steel cores. Buyers extract and value the metals inside, making these excellent source materials if you separate and describe them accurately.
How to Get the Best Price for Your Scrap
Your scrap’s grade and cleanliness matter. For example, bare bright copper — clean, solid copper with no insulation — earns more than mixed or contaminated copper wire. Likewise, sorting aluminium from steel or removing non‑metal bits before you sell helps buyers evaluate your load quickly and pay better.
Where to Sell the Best Scrap Metal
Sell Locally
Local scrap yards and metal recyclers remain a traditional option. They pay based on daily rates for each metal grade and usually pay cash or bank transfer once your materials are weighed and checked.
Sell Online for Competitive Offers
If you want more than just the first local price, consider using a scrap trading platform like ScrapTrade – Australia’s Online Scrap Trading Marketplace. You can list your scrap metal (e.g., copper, brass, aluminium), and multiple verified buyers Australia‑wide will submit offers. This competitive bidding often boosts the price compared to one‑on‑one yard negotiations.
ScrapTrade also offers flexible logistics (pickup or delivery) and secure payment systems so you can sell scrap online with confidence. Visit https://scraptrade.com.au/ to list your materials and connect with serious buyers.
Final Thoughts: Best Scrap Metal to Sell
The best scrap metals to sell — like copper, brass, and aluminium — offer value and recyclability. Prioritizing these materials and presenting them clean, sorted, and accurately described helps you unlock the highest offers.
Whether you go to local buyers or use an online marketplace like ScrapTrade to get multiple competitive offers, smart sellers get more value from their recyclables. Start listing at https://scraptrade.com.au/ — it’s an efficient way to sell scrap metal online, reach verified buyers, and earn top prices.