Scrap metal types & what they’re worth
How to spot copper, brass, aluminium, lead, steel and iron – and roughly what each is worth per kg in the UK. Prices kept up to date.
- 1Copper pipe, wire, cylinders
- 2Brass taps, valves, fittings
- 3Aluminium frames, wheels
- 4Lead flashing, old pipe
- 5Steel & iron appliances, radiators
Quick answer: scrap metal splits into two groups. Ferrous metals (steel, cast iron, wrought iron) contain iron, stick to a magnet and are worth the least per kg. Non-ferrous metals (copper, brass, aluminium, lead) don’t stick to a magnet and are worth much more – clean copper is usually the most valuable scrap you’ll find at home.
Today's guide prices per kg
| Metal | Guide price per kg |
|---|---|
| Dry Bright Copper WireMost valuable | £9.00 |
| Clean Copper Tube | £8.20 |
| Heavy Copper | £8.00 |
| Braziery Copper | £6.20 |
| Brass (Mixed) | £4.20 |
| High Grade Cable | £4.00 |
| Household Cable | £2.50 |
| Aluminium Section (HE9) | £1.15 |
| Lead | £1.10 |
| Alloy Wheels | £1.10 |
| 316 Stainless Steel | £1.10 |
| Stainless Steel | £0.75 |
| Electric Motors | £0.45 |
| Heavy Iron/Steel | £0.14 |
| Mixed Iron/Steel | £0.10 |
| Light Iron/Steel | £0.07 |
Guide prices, updated 16 October 2026. Yards pay more or less depending on grade, quantity and location. Don’t want the hassle? Book a free collection →
How to tell which metal you have
The magnet test
If a fridge magnet sticks, it’s steel or iron. If it doesn’t, it’s non-ferrous – and worth more.
Look at the colour
Copper is reddish-orange (brown or green when old). Brass is yellow-gold. Aluminium is dull silver. Lead is soft and grey.
Feel the weight
Aluminium feels light for its size. Lead and brass feel surprisingly heavy.
Clean pays more
Copper without solder, aluminium without plastic or steel screws – yards pay more for clean metal.
Ferrous metals
Contain iron. The most common scrap – lower value per kg, but it adds up.
Non-ferrous metals
No iron, so they don’t rust – and they’re worth far more per kg.
Cables & old appliances
Cable is priced by how much copper is inside – thick household cable beats thin data cable. Old appliances contain steel, copper and aluminium, which is why we can collect them free.
Scrap metal questions
Which scrap metal is worth the most?
Clean copper – especially stripped “dry bright” wire and clean copper pipe – followed by brass. Steel and iron are worth the least per kg.
How much is cast iron per kg?
Cast iron is priced with heavy iron and steel – see today’s guide price in the table above. Prices move with the market, so check with your local yard if you’re selling a large amount.
How can I tell if metal is ferrous or non-ferrous?
Use a magnet. If it sticks, it’s ferrous (iron or steel). If it doesn’t, it’s non-ferrous – copper, brass, aluminium or lead – and usually worth more.
Can I get scrap metal collected for free?
Yes. Book on Scrap4Free and a local collector will pick up scrap metal and old appliances – washing machines, cookers, boilers, radiators and more – at no cost to you.
Got scrap metal to get rid of?
Skip the trip to the yard. A local collector will pick it up from your home – free.