Scrap Metal Prices: Weekly Market Report- February 20-26, 2026
Weekly Metal Price Report | 2026-02-27 12:33:46
Copper scrap markets experienced an overall positive week-on-week trend, with prices increasing in most segments.
By 
MONTREAL (Scrap Monster): The following report summarizes the week-over-week pricing trends for major scrap metal categories across North America, based on data compiled by the Scrap Monster Price Index for the period spanning February 20-26, 2026.
Copper scrap markets experienced an overall positive week-on-week trend, with prices increasing in most segments. However, a few categories showed no change in prices on the Index. The top three gainers were #3 Copper- Light Copper, #2 Copper Wire and Tubing and #1 Copper Wire and Tubing. #3 Copper- Light Copper delivered the strongest gains, rising 3.30% compared with the prior week.
Aluminum scrap prices recorded notable jump across-the-board on the Scrap Monster Price Index. All scrap varieties, except a few, registered increase, upon comparision with the prior week. The top gainer was Aluminum Radiators, whose prices were up by 3.23% over the previous week's prices.
Brass and bronze scrap prices edged higher on the Index, upon comparison with the flat trend displayed during the previous week. On the contrary, lead scrap markets remained firm, with no price changes reported across key trading regions.
Zinc scrap prices also held steady throughout the week. In addition, global steel scrap benchmark prices recorded no movement, reflecting balanced supply-demand dynamics.
In the meantime, Stainless steel scrap prices edged higher on the Index during the week under review.
In short, Copper, aluminum, brass, and bronze scrap prices mostly rose week-on-week, with #3 Copper-Light Copper and Aluminum Radiators leading gains. Lead, zinc, and global steel scrap prices remained steady, while stainless steel scrap saw modest increases.
For full market breakdowns, visit the Daily Scrap Metal Price Report Hub or track real-time prices via the US Scrap Price Index.
NON-FERROUS SCRAP
Market Drivers
- Global Copper Demand Recovery – The week-on-week gains in copper scrap, especially #3 Copper-Light Copper, suggest renewed demand from electrical, construction, and manufacturing sectors. Strong industrial activity, particularly in Asia, is likely supporting higher copper prices.
- Aluminum Industry Activity – Aluminum scrap, led by Aluminum Radiators, saw notable price jumps. Rising demand from automotive, packaging, and aerospace industries is pushing aluminum recycling markets, with supply tightness contributing to upward price movement.
Supply Constraints in Key Scrap Grades – Limited availability of certain scrap grades, such as #2 and #1 Copper Wire, can amplify price gains. Short-term supply bottlenecks, collection delays, or logistic disruptions directly affect near-term pricing.
Seasonal Construction and Infrastructure Demand – Non-ferrous metals like copper, aluminum, and brass are heavily used in construction. Seasonal upticks in building activity often increase scrap consumption, driving near-term market trends.
- Global Economic Indicators and Manufacturing Output – Economic signals, including industrial output, PMI, and trade data, affect metal demand. Stronger manufacturing activity often correlates with higher consumption of non-ferrous scrap.
- Substitute Material Pressure and Steel Market Stability – While steel scrap prices remain flat, substitution between steel and non-ferrous metals in certain applications can influence near-term demand for copper, aluminum, and stainless steel scrap. Stable steel prices may keep non-ferrous metals relatively attractive for end-users.
Near-term non-ferrous scrap markets are primarily driven by demand recovery, supply constraints, and industrial activity, with energy costs, trade policies, and material substitution influencing price movements across key metals.
COPPER SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Copper Scrap Prices: Copper scrap prices moved higher over the past week on improved market sentiment, with #1 Copper Bare Bright prices moving higher by ↑3.13. #1 Copper Wire and Tubing climbed on the Index, up by ↑3.19%, while #2 Copper Wire and Tubing inched up by ↑3.24%.
Charts
The table below outlines the week-on-week price movements for #1 Copper Bare Bright, #1 Copper Wire and Tubing, and #2 Copper Wire and Tubing.
| Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
| #1 Copper Bare Bright | 0.18 | +3.13% |
| #1 Copper Wire and Tubing | 0.18 | +3.19% |
| #2 Copper Wire and Tubing | 0.18 | +3.24% |
Access our Daily Scrap Metal Price Report Hub
Track real-time prices via our US Scrap Price Index
USA East Coast Copper Scrap Prices
The price of #1 Copper Bare Bright on the Scrap Monster Price Index increased by $0.18 per pound as of Thursday, February 26, 2026, a weekly jump of ↑3.13%. #1 Copper Wire & Tubing went higher by $0.18 per pound, registering an increase by ↑3.19% from the prior week. By the end of the week, the price of #2 Copper Wire and Tubing had recorded a rise by ↑3.24% , moving higher by $0.18 per pound on the Index.
USA Midwest Copper Scrap Prices
The price of #1 Copper Bare Bright on the Scrap Monster Price Index inched up by $0.18 per pound as of Thursday, February 26, 2026, a weekly jump of ↑3.24%. #1 Copper Wire & Tubing edged higher by $0.18 per pound, registering an increase by ↑3.30% from the prior week. By the end of the week, the price of #2 Copper Wire and Tubing had edged higher by ↑3.36%.
USA West Coast Copper Scrap Prices
#1 Copper Bare Bright’s prices on the Scrap Monster Price Index increased by $0.18 per pound as of Thursday, February 26, 2026, a weekly increase of ↑3.10%. #1 Copper Wire & Tubing inched higher by $0.18 per pound, registering a jump by ↑3.16% from the prior week. #2 Copper Wire and Tubing prices had recorded an increase by ↑3.21% as at the end of the week.
International Comparison
China Copper Scrap Prices
- All of the copper scrap categories recorded modest upmove on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Top Gainers: #2 Copper Wire and Tubing ↑2.55%, #1 Copper Wire and Tubing ↑2.52%, #1 Insulated Copper Wire 85% Recovery ↑2.39%
India Copper Scrap Prices
- All copper scrap categories recorded week-over-week jump on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- The commodity to report the biggest surge in prices was Copper sheet cutting, which was up by 3.69%
ALUMINUM SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Aluminum Scrap Prices: Over the previous week, E.C. Aluminum Wire recorded positive variation in prices. The prices of the commodity edged higher modestly by ↑2.17% to close the week at a price higher than the previous week's price on the Scrap Monster Price Index. 6063 Extrusions ended the week on a positive note, edging higher by ↑1.96%from the prior week, while Old Cast prices inched up by ↑2.25% week-on-week. UBC prices also registered week-on-week increase by ↑2.22%.
Charts
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in E.C. Aluminum Wire, 6063 Extrusions, Old Cast and UBC.
Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
0.03 | +2.17% | |
0.02 | +1.96% | |
0.02 | +2.25% | |
0.02 | +2.22% |
Access our Daily Scrap Metal Price Report Hub
Track real-time prices via our US Scrap Price Index
USA East Coast Aluminum Scrap Prices
The price of E.C. Aluminum Wire on the Scrap Monster Price Index recorded a jump of ↑2.17% as of Thursday, February 26, 2026. 6063 Extrusions edged higher by ↑1.96% compared with the previous week. Old Cast prices increased from the previous week's closing price of $0.89, edging higher by ↑2.25% during the week, while UBC prices also increased by ↑2.22% on a week-on-week basis.
USA Midwest Aluminum Scrap Prices
Aluminum scrap prices recorded increase over the past week. E.C. Aluminum Wire prices were up by $0.03 per Lb during the course of the week, while 6063 Extrusions inched up by ↑2.00%. Old Cast prices reported an increase of ↑2.33% week-on-week, whereas UBC prices were up by ↑2.27%.
USA West Coast Aluminum Scrap Prices
The price of E.C. Aluminum Wire on the Scrap Monster Price Index recorded an increase of ↑2.17% as of Thursday, February 26, 2026. 6063 Extrusions were up by ↑1.96%, upon comparison with the prior week. By the end of the week, the price of Old Cast increased by $0.02 per Lb. Also, UBC prices recorded a week-on-week jump by ↑2.20%.
International Comparison
China Aluminum Scrap Prices
- All aluminum scrap categories recorded increase from the previous week's prices on the Scrap Monster Price Index. Aluminum Transformers posted the biggest jump, rising by ↑2.87%. Aluminum Radiators edged higher by ↑2.76%, while, Old Cast and Old Sheet prices also were up modestly by ↑2.66% each on the Index.
India Aluminum Scrap Prices
- All aluminum scrap categories remained flat on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Aluminum ingot prices remained unchanged, holding firm at last week’s levels.
- The price of Aluminum utensil scrap also remained unchanged during the week ended February 26, 2026.
BRASS/BRONZE SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices: Over the previous week, there was a jump in brass/bronze scrap prices. Yellow Brass’s prices increased by ↑1.51% during the course of the week . Red Brass closed on a higher note, rising by ↑1.44% during the week.
Charts
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in Yellow Brass and Red Brass.
Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
0.05 | +1.44% | |
0.05 | +1.51% |
Access our Daily Scrap Metal Price Report Hub
Track real-time prices via our US Scrap Price Index
USA East Coast Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
The price of Red Brass on the Scrap Monster Price Index recorded an increase of ↑1.44% as of Thursday, February 26, 2026. Yellow Brass prices also jumped higher on the Index.
USA Midwest Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
By the conclusion of the week ended February 26, 2026, the price of Red Brass had recorded a jump of ↑1.47%, upon comparison with the beginning of the week. Additionally, Yellow Brass prices edged higher by ↑1.55% week-on-week.
USA West Coast Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
Red Brass went higher by $0.05 per pound, witnessing a jump of ↑1.39% from the prior week. By the end of the week, the price of Yellow Brass had increased by ↑1.47% on the Index.
International Comparison
China Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
- All brass/bronze scrap categories recorded increase on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Top Gainer: Yellow Brass ↑1.03%
India Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
- All brass/bronze scrap categories recorded week-over-week jump on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
LEAD SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Lead Scrap Prices: Lead scrap prices remained stable throughout the week, reflecting steady market fundamentals. Scrap Auto Battery prices saw no change, closing the week flat.
Chart
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in Scrap Auto Batteries.
Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
0 | Nil |
Access our Daily Scrap Metal Price Report Hub
Track real-time prices via our US Scrap Price Index
USA East Coast Lead Scrap Prices
The price of Scrap Auto Batteries on the Scrap Monster Price Index held steady as of Thursday, February 26, 2026.
USA Midwest Lead Scrap Prices
By the conclusion of the week ended February 26, 2026, the price of Scrap Auto Batteries maintained previous week’s price level.
USA West Coast Lead Scrap Prices
The prices of Scrap Auto Batteries recorded no change on the Scrap Monster Price Index as of Thursday, February 26, 2026.
International Comparison
China Lead Scrap Prices
- Soft Lead and #2 Lead scrap prices posted no variation week-over-week on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Additionally, Auto Battery prices recorded no variation from the prior week's prices.
India Lead Scrap Prices
- All lead scrap categories in the region recorded dip in prices over the previous week on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
ZINC SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Zinc Scrap Prices: Zinc scrap prices remained unchanged over the past week, with all categories holding steady. Both New and Old Zinc Die Cast prices showed no movement during the period.
Charts
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in New Zinc Die Cast and Old Zinc Die Cast.
Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
0 | Nil | |
0 | Nil |
Access our Daily Scrap Metal Price Report Hub
Track real-time prices via our US Scrap Price Index
USA East Coast Zinc Scrap Prices
The price of New Zinc Die Cast on the Scrap Monster Price Index recorded no variation as of Thursday, February 26, 2026. Also, Old Zinc Die Cast prices were flat over the previous week.
USA Midwest Zinc Scrap Prices
By the conclusion of the week ended February 26, 2026, the prices of New Zinc Die Cast and Old Zinc Die Cast recorded no change from the previous week’s price levels.
USA West Coast Zinc Scrap Prices
The prices of New Zinc Die Cast witnessed no week-over-week variation on the Scrap Monster Price Index as of Thursday, February 26, 2026. Similarly, the Old Zinc Die Cast prices were unchanged week-over-week.
International Comparison
- Shred zinc scrap prices edged higher by CNY 100 per MT on the Scrap Monster Price Index. The commodity's price recorded a week-on-week jump of ↑0.60% during the week ended February 26, 2026.
- Tin Slab prices held steady week-over-week on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Zinc slab prices recorded a modest jump of ↑0.31% over the previous week
FERROUS SCRAP
Market Drivers
Steel Production Demand – Stable global steel production underpins ferrous scrap demand. Flat steel scrap prices indicate balanced supply-demand dynamics in major producing regions, with mills maintaining steady consumption.
Inventory Levels at Mills – Adequate inventory of ferrous scrap at steel mills keeps prices stable. Low volatility suggests that supply and stock levels are balanced with ongoing consumption.
Raw Material Import-Export Policies – Trade policies, tariffs, or restrictions on scrap imports/exports can affect availability. The lack of price movement indicates minimal recent regulatory disruptions.
Global Economic Indicators – Industrial output, PMI data, and macroeconomic trends affect steel demand. The stable scrap market reflects steady, but not accelerating, economic activity globally.
- Seasonal Maintenance and Shutdowns at Steel Mills– Scheduled plant maintenance or brief shutdowns can temporarily reduce scrap demand. Last week’s flat prices indicate that no major shutdowns disrupted supply-demand dynamics.
- Scrap Quality and Grade Availability - The composition and quality of scrap—such as HMS 1&2, shredded scrap, or turnings—impact pricing. Consistent availability of standard grades last week helped maintain stable prices across categories.
Ferrous scrap market is primarily driven by steel production demand, mill inventories, scrap quality, trade policies, and overall economic activity, all contributing to near-term price stability.
STEEL SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Steel Scrap Prices: Steel scrap prices showed little change over the past week, indicating a steady market. #1 HMS maintained last week’s level, while Shredded Auto Scrap, HMS 80/20, and #1 Busheling all traded flat throughout the period.
Charts
The table below provides weekly price variations in #1 HMS, Shredded Auto Scrap, HMS 80/20, and #1 Busheling.
Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
0 | Nil | |
0 | Nil | |
0 | Nil | |
0 | Nil |
Access our Daily Scrap Metal Price Report Hub
Track real-time prices via our US Scrap Price Index
USA East Coast Steel Scrap Prices
On the Scrap Monster Price Index, #1 HMS held steady as of Thursday, February 26, 2026. Shredded Auto Scrap and HMS 80/20 also saw no week-on-week change, while #1 Busheling remained firm throughout the period.
USA Midwest Steel Scrap Prices
#1 HMS prices remained steady on the Scrap Monster Price Index. Shredded Auto Scrap closed the week unchanged from its opening level. HMS 80/20 prices were likewise stable, while #1 Busheling recorded no week-on-week fluctuation during the week ended February 26, 2026.
USA West Coast Steel Scrap Prices
As of Thursday, February 19, 2026, #1 HMS prices on the Scrap Monster Price Index were unchanged. Shredded Auto Scrap also remained stable, ending the week at the same level as the prior period. HMS 80/20 showed no movement by the close of trading, while #1 Busheling prices likewise held at their previous week’s levels.
International Comparison
China Flat
China Steel Scrap Prices
- All the steel scrap categories held steady on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- #1 HMS and Cast Iron Scrap prices remained flat upon comparison with the previous week's prices.
STAINLESS STEEL SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Stainless Steel Scrap Prices: Over the previous week, stainless steel scrap prices reported increase on the Scrap Monster Price Index. 304 SS Solid scrap prices witnessed a jump of ↑1.52% on a week-on-week basis.
Chart
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in 304 SS Solid scrap.
Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
0.01 | +1.52% |
Access our Daily Scrap Metal Price Report Hub
Track real-time prices via our US Scrap Price Index
USA East Coast Stainless Steel Scrap Prices
The price of 304 SS Solid on the Scrap Monster Price Index recorded an increase of ↑1.52% as of Thursday, February 26, 2026.
USA Midwest Stainless Steel Scrap Prices
304 SS Solid prices witnessed positive price variation on the Scrap Monster Price Index. The price of the commodity edged higher by ↑1.52% during the week.
USA West Coast Stainless Steel Scrap Prices
The price of 304 SS Solid on the Scrap Monster Price Index recorded an upward movement on the Index. The prices were up by ↑1.52% during the week ended Thursday, February 26, 2026.
International Comparison
China ↑1.26%
China Stainless Steel Scrap Prices
- All of the stainless steel scrap categories recorded increase on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
See all Stainless steel daily reports → | Stainless Steel Price Index → | Related Stainless steel news →
Weekly Market Drivers
- Steel Mill Production- U.S. Steel Output Posts 6.6% Weekly Gain, Says Industry Data
- Steel Import/Export- U.S. Steel Import Permits Drop 6.4% in January: AISI
- Scrap Export/Import- Ghana Targets Steel Import Cut, Scrap Export Boost / Poland's Ferrous Scrap Exports Fall; Ukraine Imports Hit Record
- Logistics- British Steel starts 24-7 rail operations after securing major new high-sped deal for Turkiye
- Fresh permit- U.S. Steel secures permit to build $100 million slag recycler
- Green steel/sustainability- 'Green steel' company in Mass. to lay off 71 workers
- New Operations- Merrill Steel begins operations in Osceola, fillinh void left by Denso closure
- Mergers/Acquisitions- BlueScope Rejects Revised Steel Dynamics Bid
Global Comparison & Policy Impact
USA vs. China/India
Expert Quote:
“With ferrous scrap prices remaining largely flat and supply conditions tight in key regions, the market is exhibiting a holding pattern, as mills balance inventory against steady steel production,” said Rolf Willeke, Ferrous Division Statistics Adviser at the Bureau of International Recycling.
Market Outlook
- Continued Price Stability in the Short Term- With #1 HMS, Shredded Scrap, HMS 80/20, and #1 Busheling trading flat, the market is likely to remain range-bound unless a clear demand or supply shock emerges.
- Balanced Supply–Demand Fundamentals- Steady mill procurement and adequate scrap inflows suggest equilibrium conditions. Unless collection volumes tighten or steel output shifts, pricing volatility should remain limited.
- Export Market Sensitivity- Any movement in major export destinations (e.g., Turkey or Southeast Asia) could quickly influence domestic pricing. Current stability suggests muted international buying activity.
- Steel Mill Procurement Discipline- Mills appear cautious, purchasing hand-to-mouth rather than building large inventories. This conservative buying pattern may cap upward price momentum in the near term.
- Seasonal Demand Influence- As construction and infrastructure activity gradually picks up in certain regions, ferrous scrap demand could see moderate support, though not strong enough yet to trigger sharp price increases.
Ferrous scrap markets across North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America are expected to remain largely stable in the near term, supported by balanced mill inventories and steady steel production. While regional demand from construction and manufacturing may offer mild support, muted export activity and cautious procurement strategies are likely to keep prices range-bound.
Daily Reports | Scrap Monster Price Index | US Scrap Metal Prices
Register now for free daily alerts → Sign Up
Related Resources
Copper Scrap Prices | Aluminum Scrap Prices | Steel Scrap Prices | Brass Scrap Prices | Scrap Yard Directory | Company Directory | Daily Market Report
Full pricing details, yard finder, market analysis, and live price charts available at ScrapMonster.com. Trusted by 100,000+ recycling professionals. Sign up for daily alerts—your competitive edge starts here.
Subscribe to Scrap Monster Live Scrap Prices
POLL
Do you believe steel scrap prices will remain stable in March?
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which scrap metal recorded the biggest gain during the week?
#3 Copper-Light Copper led gains with a 3.30% week-on-week increase, followed closely by Aluminum Radiators (+3.23%).
- How did steel scrap prices perform?
Steel scrap grades including #1 HMS, Shredded Auto Scrap, HMS 80/20, and #1 Busheling remained flat, reflecting steady mill demand and balanced inventories.
- What drove copper and aluminum price increases?
Strong industrial demand, seasonal construction activity, supply tightness in select grades, and improving global manufacturing indicators supported price gains.
- What is the near-term market outlook?
The market is expected to remain range-bound, with non-ferrous metals supported by demand recovery, while ferrous scrap prices stay stable unless disrupted by export shifts or supply shocks.
- How can I track scrap metal prices in real time?
For up-to-date data, use tools like the Scrap Monster Price Index and the US Scrap Price Index, then review daily and weekly reports in the Scrap Monster portal to monitor trends, percentage moves, and grade-specific performance.
Combining index data with structured weekly commentary helps scrap yards, traders, and generators refine their buying and selling strategies.
