Think all scrap metal is basically worthless? That it’s just rusty junk taking up space? Yeah, that’s where a lot of people get it wrong.
Some scrap categories are actually worth much more than most realise. Whether you’re cleaning out the shed, gutting a car, or dealing with leftover materials from a job site, it helps to know which metals are more valuable and why.
Copper – The One Everyone Underestimates
If you’re looking for cash for scrap, copper is a good place to start. Copper isn’t just valuable; it’s one of the most sought-after metals in the scrap world. And yet, people still throw it out without thinking. What makes it so worthwhile? A few things:
- It’s used everywhere—wires, pipes, electrical systems, appliances.
- It’s easily recyclable without losing quality.
- The global demand is always high.
The best part? Not all copper is treated equally. Clean copper (with no insulation or attachments) pays much better than mixed or dirty copper. That tangled mass of wiring behind old walls? It could be worth way more than you’d expect.
If you ever strip out old electrical cables or dismantle an appliance, don’t just bin it. Copper prices are consistently strong, and even a small pile adds up.
Brass – Heavier Than It Looks, Worth More Than You Think
Brass tends to be overlooked because it’s not as instantly recognisable. But if you’ve handled taps, old plumbing fixtures, or door handles, chances are you’ve handled brass.
It’s a mix of copper and zinc, and while it’s not quite as valuable as pure copper, it still pays well, especially in bulk. Plus, it’s dense. A small box can weigh more than you’d expect, which works in your favour when it’s sold by the kilo.
Keep an eye out for:
- Old taps and valves
- Decorative fittings
- Radiator parts
- Lock mechanisms
Even if it’s tarnished or a bit green from age, don’t worry. That’s just oxidation—it won’t hurt the price much.
Aluminium – Low Per Kilo, But It Builds Fast
Aluminium doesn’t always have the biggest payout per kilogram, but here’s the trick: it adds up quickly because it’s everywhere.
You’ll find aluminium in:
- Window frames
- Car parts
- Old ladders
- Gutters
- Cookware
What makes it worth collecting is volume. A few pieces might not seem like much, but aluminium is light, and larger quantities are easy to gather without much effort. Some types (like clean extruded aluminium from windows or certain machine parts) pay better than mixed or dirty varieties, so sorting can help.
Stainless Steel – Not Just for Kitchens
People usually associate stainless steel with kitchen sinks or benchtops. But it shows up in much more than that. From industrial equipment to some car parts, and even old cutlery, stainless steel is tough, rust-resistant, and still valuable as scrap, especially when it’s clean and separated.
It’s heavier than regular steel and can pay significantly more if it’s a higher grade (like 304 or 316 stainless, which are often used in marine or medical environments). The cleaner the piece (no plastic handles or attachments), the better the price.
Lead – Dense, Toxic, and Valuable
Lead doesn’t look like much, but it’s heavy and pays surprisingly well. It’s often found in:
- Old batteries
- Roofing materials
- Gutters and flashing
- Weights and counterbalances
It’s important to handle lead with care. It’s toxic, so gloves and good hygiene matter. But if you’re clearing out older buildings or materials, that ugly grey metal could be worth holding onto.
Car Batteries – Often Discarded, Always Valuable
Vehicle batteries are more than just dead weight. They’re packed with lead and acid, and because of that, they’re consistently valuable in the scrap trade.
Many people don’t realise they can sell them. They just leave them lying around the garage or pay to dispose of them. But most scrap yards pay per battery or by weight, and the return is usually better than expected.
Just a reminder: don’t try to dismantle them yourself. The internal chemicals are dangerous. Sell them whole, and let the experts deal with the recycling process.
Electric Motors – Hidden Metal Goldmines
If you’ve ever thrown away a fan, washing machine, or old power tool, you may have tossed out a decent chunk of money.
Electric motors are made with:
- Copper windings
- Steel casing
- Aluminium components
While they take a bit more effort to break down, some scrap yards will take them as-is and pay a solid rate because of the copper inside. If you’re up for the extra effort and know how to safely dismantle them, even better; clean copper pays more than the copper left inside a motor.
Wiring & Cables – Strip It or Sell It?
Wiring is one of those scrap types people overlook because it doesn’t seem like much. But the copper inside is what gives it value.
You’ve got two options:
- Sell it as-is – Quicker, easier, and still pays.
- Strip it – More time, but better payout.
If you’ve got a huge amount of wiring, stripping can be worth it. For smaller quantities, the effort might not justify the extra cash. Up to you. Either way, it’s definitely not waste.
Make Every Kilo Count
At the end of the day, it’s not about becoming a full-time scrapper or digging through bins. It’s just about paying attention to what you’re already throwing away.
Whether you’re cleaning up, clearing out, or just getting rid of old junk, don’t let valuable scrap slip through the cracks. With a little sorting, a bit of know-how, and a few smart choices, you could be sitting on more value than you think.
