Got old radiators, machinery parts, or construction beams lying around? Iron is one of the most common metals found in scrap yards—and although it may not fetch the highest prices, it's abundant and easy to recycle. Understanding scrap iron prices can help you make the most of your materials.
???? Average Scrap Iron Price Estimates
???? Prices vary by region and market conditions—always confirm with your local scrap yard.
| Type of Iron Scrap | Price per kg (USD) | Price per ton (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Light Iron (sheet metal, thin items) | $0.08 – $0.15 | $80 – $150 |
| Cast Iron (heavier, solid parts) | $0.15 – $0.25 | $150 – $250 |
| Structural Steel / HMS (Heavy Melting Steel) | $0.18 – $0.30 | $180 – $300 |
| Mixed Scrap Iron | $0.10 – $0.20 | $100 – $200 |
???? What Qualifies as Scrap Iron?
Scrap iron includes a variety of heavy-duty, ferrous (magnetic) materials:
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Cast iron: Brake rotors, old bathtubs, engines
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Light iron: Sheet metal, appliances, thin siding
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Steel/Iron beams: Construction steel (I-beams, rebar)
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Automotive parts: Frames, rotors, axles
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Old tools & machinery: Rusty hand tools, equipment casings
???? Factors That Influence Scrap Iron Prices
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Type of Iron
Heavier, cleaner scrap like cast iron or HMS usually brings higher prices than thin, rusty sheet metal. -
Cleanliness
Iron that’s free of plastic, paint, wood, or oil gets better rates. -
Volume
Selling in bulk can lead to higher per-ton prices or bonuses. -
Global and Local Demand
Iron is used in manufacturing, construction, and automotive industries. When demand spikes, so do prices. -
Transport Costs
Proximity to mills or export ports can impact what local yards are willing to pay.
???? Tips for Maximizing Your Return on Scrap Iron
✅ Sort It Out – Separate iron from other metals and materials.
✅ Clean It – Remove non-metal attachments for a higher grade classification.
✅ Weigh Beforehand – Knowing your load weight helps avoid being underpaid.
✅ Compare Buyers – Different yards may offer different rates.
✅ Ask About Pickup – If you have a large volume, some scrap dealers offer pickup services.
♻️ Why Recycle Scrap Iron?
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Environmental Impact – Recycling iron saves natural resources and reduces landfill waste.
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Energy Savings – It uses 75% less energy to recycle iron than to extract it from ore.
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Cash for Clutter – Turn unused, rusty items into money.
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Supports Circular Economy – Keeps valuable materials in use and out of waste streams.
Final Thoughts
While scrap iron prices may not be as high as copper or brass, the sheer volume of available iron makes it a worthwhile metal to recycle. From old appliances to industrial leftovers, there's cash to be made—and environmental benefits to gain—by scrapping your iron responsibly.