Scrap Metal Prices: Weekly Market Report- February 27-March 5, 2026
Weekly Metal Price Report | 2026-03-06 21:27:05
Most copper grades experienced slight week-on-week declines, with #3 Copper–Light Copper scrap posting the steepest drop of 4.09% compared to the previous week.
By 
MONTREAL (Scrap Monster): This report provides a summary of week-over-week price movements for key scrap metal categories in North America, using data from the Scrap Monster Price Index for the period of February 27 to March 5, 2026.
Copper scrap markets showed a mixed trend during the review period. Most copper grades experienced slight week-on-week declines, with #3 Copper–Light Copper scrap posting the steepest drop of 4.09% compared to the previous week. A few copper categories, however, remained unchanged over the same timeframe.
Aluminum scrap prices saw broad gains on the Scrap Monster Price Index. Nearly all scrap varieties recorded increases compared with the prior week, with Aluminum Radiators leading the gains with a 6.25% rise.
Brass and bronze scrap prices dipped slightly on the Index, reversing the upward momentum observed in the previous week. In contrast, lead scrap markets held steady, showing no price changes across major trading regions.
Zinc scrap prices also declined throughout the week, while global steel scrap benchmark prices remained unchanged, reflecting balanced supply and demand conditions.
Stainless steel scrap prices experienced a modest decline on the Index during the period under review.
In short, copper and zinc scrap prices saw modest declines, while aluminum scrap, led by radiators, posted notable gains. Brass and bronze dipped slightly, lead remained steady, and stainless steel scrap showed a minor drop, with global steel scrap prices unchanged.
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
- Copper Price Volatility: Copper scrap, particularly #3 Copper–Light Copper, saw a sharp 4.09% week-on-week decline. This drop reflects market sensitivity to global supply fluctuations, regional demand variations, and speculative trading. Traders often react quickly to import/export data and industrial demand signals, causing short-term price swings in copper grades.
- Aluminum Demand Surge: Aluminum scrap prices rose broadly, led by Aluminum Radiators (+6.25%), indicating strong industrial consumption. Automotive, construction, and packaging sectors continue to drive demand, with recyclers benefiting from increased collection and processing activity. Price gains often correlate with seasonal manufacturing cycles and import-export trends.
Brass and Bronze Correction: Brass and bronze scrap reversed the previous week’s upward momentum, showing slight declines. This suggests temporary supply-demand imbalances, possibly due to increased availability from industrial scrap or lower immediate demand in foundries and fabrication units. Traders monitor these minor fluctuations closely for arbitrage opportunities.
Stable Lead Markets: Lead scrap prices remained unchanged, indicating balanced supply and demand. Stability often results from consistent end-use requirements in batteries and other lead-based applications, combined with steady recycling streams. Market participants view this stability as a signal of low short-term price risk.
- Zinc Price Weakness: Zinc scrap experienced a downward trend, reflecting weaker consumption in galvanizing and alloying sectors. Global inventory levels, import pressures, and industrial slowdowns can influence these movements. Price declines may prompt recyclers to temporarily withhold material until demand rebounds.
- Stainless Steel Moderation: Stainless steel scrap recorded modest declines, suggesting stable but cautious market sentiment. Limited fluctuations typically indicate a balance between stainless production demand and available scrap supply. Traders watch stainless grades closely due to their sensitivity to global steel production forecasts.
Market participants often react to shipping delays, policy changes, or geopolitical news, creating short-term volatility, especially in metals like copper and aluminum.
COPPER SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Copper Scrap Prices: Copper scrap prices trended downward during the past week amid muted trading activity and restrained buying interest. #1 Copper Bare Bright fell ↓3.88%, while #1 Copper Wire and Tubing declined ↓3.95%. In addition, #2 Copper Wire and Tubing recorded a ↓4.01% week-on-week decrease.
Charts
The table below highlights 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 | 0.23 | -3.88% |
| #1 Copper Wire and Tubing | 0.23 | -3.95% |
| #2 Copper Wire and Tubing | 0.23 | -4.01% |
Access our Daily Scrap Metal Price Report Hub
Track real-time prices via our US Scrap Price Index
USA East Coast Copper Scrap Prices
According to the Scrap Monster Price Index, #1 Copper Bare Bright fell by $0.23 per pound as of Thursday, March 5, 2026, marking a week-on-week decline of ↓3.88%. #1 Copper Wire and Tubing also dropped by $0.23 per pound, down ↓3.95% from the previous week. Likewise, #2 Copper Wire and Tubing registered a ↓4.01% decrease over the same period.
USA Midwest Copper Scrap Prices
On the Scrap Monster Price Index, #1 Copper Bare Bright fell by $0.23 per pound as of Thursday, March 5, 2026, reflecting a ↓4.01% week-on-week decline. #1 Copper Wire & Tubing also eased by $0.23 per pound, down ↓4.09% from the previous week. Meanwhile, #2 Copper Wire and Tubing declined ↓4.16%, ending the week on a softer footing.
USA West Coast Copper Scrap Prices
#1 Copper Bare Bright prices on the Scrap Monster Price Index declined by $0.12 per pound as of Thursday, March 5, 2026, representing a week-on-week drop of ↓2.01%. #1 Copper Wire & Tubing also edged down by $0.12 per pound, posting a ↓2.04% decrease from the previous week. Meanwhile, #2 Copper Wire and Tubing recorded a ↓2.08% decline by the close of the week.
International Comparison
China Copper Scrap Prices
- All copper scrap categories recorded decline on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- The top loser was #1 Copper Bare Bright, whose prices were down by ↓2.69%
India Copper Scrap Prices
- All copper scrap categories recorded modest week-over-week decline on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- The category to record the largest dip was Copper sheet cutting, which was down by ↓2.06%
ALUMINUM SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Aluminum Scrap Prices: Over the previous week, E.C. Aluminum Wire recorded positive variation in prices. The prices of the commodity edged higher sharply by ↑5.67% to close the week at a price higher than the previous week's price on the Scrap Monster Price Index. 6063 Extrusions ended the week on a positive note, edging higher by ↑3.85% from the prior week, while Old Cast prices inched up by ↑4.40% week-on-week. UBC prices also registered week-on-week increase by ↑4.35%.
Charts
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in E.C. Aluminum Wire, 6063 Extrusions, Old Cast and UBC.
Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
0.08 | +5.67% | |
0.04 | +3.85% | |
0.04 | +4.40% | |
0.04 | +4.35% |
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 ↑5.67% as of Thursday, March 5, 2026. 6063 Extrusions edged higher by ↑3.85% compared with the previous week. Old Cast prices increased from the previous week's closing price of $0.91, edging higher by ↑4.40% during the week, while UBC prices also increased by ↑4.35% 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 $0.08 per Lb during the course of the week, while 6063 Extrusions inched up by ↑3.92%. Old Cast prices reported an increase of ↑4.55% week-on-week, whereas UBC prices were up by ↑4.44%.
USA West Coast Aluminum Scrap Prices
The price of E.C. Aluminum Wire on the Scrap Monster Price Index recorded an increase of ↑5.67% as of Thursday, March 5, 2026. 6063 Extrusions were up by ↑3.85%, upon comparison with the prior week. By the end of the week, the price of Old Cast increased by $0.04 per Lb. Also, UBC prices recorded a week-on-week jump by ↑4.30%.
International Comparison
China Aluminum Scrap Prices
- All aluminum scrap categories recorded increase from the previous week's prices on the Scrap Monster Price Index. Old Cast and Old Sheet posted the biggest jumps, rising by ↑4.46% each. 6063 Extrusions edged higher by ↑4.42%, while, prices of Aluminum Transformers were up modestly by ↑4.19% on the Index.
India Aluminum Scrap Prices
- All aluminum scrap categories increased on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Aluminum utensil scrap prices surged, recording a week-on-week rise of ↑7.21% from last week’s levels.
- The price of Aluminum ingot scrap also were up during the week ended March 5, 2026.
BRASS/BRONZE SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices: Over the previous week, there was a decline in brass/bronze scrap prices. Yellow Brass’s prices decreased by ↓2.37% during the course of the week . Red Brass closed on a lower note, falling by ↓2.27% during the week.
Charts
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in Yellow Brass and Red Brass.
Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
0.08 | -2.27% | |
0.08 | -2.37% |
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 a decline of ↓2.27% as of Thursday, March 5, 2026. Yellow Brass prices also edged lower on the Index, registering a week-on-week dip by ↓2.37%.
USA Midwest Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
By the conclusion of the week ended March 5, 2026, the price of Red Brass had recorded a decline of ↓2.31%, upon comparison with the beginning of the week. Additionally, Yellow Brass prices edged lower by ↓2.44% week-on-week.
USA West Coast Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
Red Brass prices were down by $0.08 per pound, witnessing a decline of ↓2.20% from the prior week. By the end of the week, the price of Yellow Brass had decreased by ↓2.32% on the Index.
International Comparison
China Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
- All brass/bronze scrap categories recorded decline on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Top Loser: Yellow Brass ↓1.02%
India Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
- All brass/bronze scrap categories recorded week-over-week dip on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Brass Cuttings registered the largest decline, falling from the prior week's price by ↓0.74%
LEAD SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Lead Scrap Prices: Lead scrap maintained stability over the week, indicating consistent market fundamentals. Scrap Auto Battery prices held steady, ending the week unchanged.
Chart
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in Scrap Auto Batteries.
Category | Price Change ($) | % 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, March 5, 2026.
USA Midwest Lead Scrap Prices
By the conclusion of the week ended March 5, 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, March 5, 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 increase 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 recorded declines over the past week, with all categories witnessing fall from the previous week's prices. New Zinc Die Cast prices were down by ↓1.19% week-over-week. Also, Old Zinc Die Cast prices posted a decline of ↓1.41% during the week.
Charts
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in New Zinc Die Cast and Old Zinc Die Cast.
Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
0.01 | -1.19% | |
0.01 | -1.41% |
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 a decline of ↓1.19% as of Thursday, March 5, 2026. Also, Old Zinc Die Cast prices were down by ↓1.41% over the previous week.
USA Midwest Zinc Scrap Prices
By the conclusion of the week ended March 5, 2026, the prices of New Zinc Die Cast and Old Zinc Die Cast recorded declines on the Index by ↓1.19% and ↓1.41% respectively from the previous week’s price levels.
USA West Coast Zinc Scrap Prices
The prices of New Zinc Die Cast witnessed week-over-week decline of ↓1.19% on the Scrap Monster Price Index as of Thursday, March 5, 2026. Similarly, the Old Zinc Die Cast prices were down by ↓1.41% week-over-week.
International Comparison
- Shred zinc scrap prices recorded a jump of ↑0.89% on the Scrap Monster Price Index. The commodity's price edged higher by CNY 150 per MT during the week ended March 5, 2026.
- Tin Slab prices held steady week-over-week on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Zinc slab prices recorded a modest decline of ↓3.55% over the previous week
FERROUS SCRAP
Market Drivers
Inventory Levels at Steel Mills: Steel mills closely monitor their scrap inventories to manage procurement costs and production schedules. When inventories are low, mills tend to increase scrap purchases, which can push prices upward. Conversely, comfortable stock levels may reduce immediate buying interest, leading to softer prices. Inventory adjustments often drive short-term fluctuations in ferrous scrap demand.
Seasonal Scrap Generation: Scrap supply typically follows seasonal patterns. Warmer months often see higher scrap generation due to increased demolition activity, automotive recycling, and construction-related scrap flows. In contrast, winter conditions can disrupt collection, transportation, and processing, tightening supply and potentially supporting higher scrap prices.
Freight and Logistics Costs: Transportation costs, including ocean freight rates and inland trucking charges, play a significant role in scrap market dynamics. Rising logistics costs can discourage long-distance scrap shipments and shift trade toward regional markets. Conversely, lower freight rates may stimulate cross-border scrap flows and increase global market activity.
Automotive Industry Performance: The automotive sector is a major contributor to both scrap supply and steel demand. Increased vehicle production boosts demand for steel products, indirectly raising scrap consumption by mills. Additionally, end-of-life vehicle recycling contributes substantial quantities of ferrous scrap, influencing overall supply levels.
- Government Trade Policies and Tariffs: Import duties, export restrictions, and trade policy changes can quickly alter scrap trade flows. Protective tariffs on steel products or raw materials may affect the competitiveness of domestic steel production, thereby influencing scrap demand. Policy shifts often create short-term volatility in global ferrous scrap markets.
- Industrial Manufacturing Activity: Manufacturing sectors such as machinery, appliances, and heavy equipment generate large volumes of industrial scrap. Strong manufacturing output increases both scrap generation and steel demand, supporting active scrap trading. Conversely, slowdowns in industrial production can reduce scrap supply and weaken overall market momentum.
Ferrous scrap market trends will largely depend on steel mill inventory levels, seasonal scrap supply, trade policies, logistics costs, and industrial demand. Additional influences include currency fluctuations, automotive sector performance, and technological advancements in scrap recycling.
STEEL SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Steel Scrap Prices: Steel scrap prices remained largely stable over the past week, reflecting a steady market environment. #1 HMS held at the previous week’s level, while Shredded Auto Scrap, HMS 80/20, and #1 Busheling also traded unchanged 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, March 5, 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 March 5, 2026.
USA West Coast Steel Scrap Prices
As of Thursday, March 5, 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 declined on the Scrap Monster Price Index. 304 SS Solid scrap prices recorded a dip of ↓1.49% 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 | -1.49% |
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 a dip of ↓1.49% as of Thursday, March 5, 2026.
USA Midwest Stainless Steel Scrap Prices
304 SS Solid prices registered a modest decline on the Scrap Monster Price Index. The price of the commodity edged lower by ↓1.49% during the week.
USA West Coast Stainless Steel Scrap Prices
The price of 304 SS Solid on the Scrap Monster Price Index recorded a downward movement, dropping by $0.01 per Lb during the week ended Thursday, March 5, 2026.
International Comparison
China ↓1.66%
China Stainless Steel Scrap Prices
- All of the stainless steel scrap categories recorded decline on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Top Losers: 201 SS ↓2.38%, 304 SS Turning ↓1.79%
See all Stainless steel daily reports → | Stainless Steel Price Index → | Related Stainless steel news →
Weekly Market Drivers
- Steel Mill Production- U.S. Raw Steel Production Rises; Mill Utilization Stays Above 78% ; World Steel Production Falls 6.5% in January as Asia Records Sharp 8.6% Decline
- Steel Import/Export- Middle East tensions delay EU steel imports
- Freight/Logistics- Strait of Hormuz Disruptions Rattle Global Steel Trade, Freight Rates Spike
- Steel Mill Shipments- U.S. Steel Industry Shows Positive Start in 2026 with Higher Shipments
- Scrap Metal Trade- Law firm Bowmans warns scrap metal dealers
- Green steel/sustainability- Thyssenkrupp to supply low-carbon steel to BMW reen steel' company in Mass. to lay off 71 workers
- Steel Mill Operations- Hyundai Steel to reduce rebar production capacity in Incheon starting in March
Global Comparison & Policy Impact
USA vs. China/India
Expert Quote:
“Ferrous scrap prices remained largely stable last week, reflecting balanced supply and cautious buying from steel mills. With mills maintaining comfortable inventories and finished steel demand steady, the market showed little volatility during the period,” said Joe Pickard, Chief Economist and Director of Commodities at the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI).
Market Outlook
- Steady Demand from Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) Mills
Ferrous scrap demand is expected to remain stable as electric arc furnace steelmakers continue to rely heavily on recycled steel feedstock. With EAF production accounting for a growing share of global steel output, consistent procurement of scrap will likely support market stability. Mills are expected to maintain balanced buying strategies to manage costs and inventory levels. - Moderate Price Stability in the Near Term: Recent market trends indicate limited volatility in ferrous scrap prices, suggesting a relatively stable short-term outlook. With benchmark grades such as HMS and shredded scrap trading flat, the market appears to be in equilibrium. Unless major supply disruptions or demand shocks occur, prices are likely to move within a narrow range in the coming weeks.
- Export Market Influence: Global demand from key importing countries will continue to influence price direction. Buyers in regions such as Turkey and Southeast Asia often set the tone for international scrap trade. Strong export demand could tighten supply in exporting markets and push prices upward, while weaker import activity may limit price gains.
- Industrial Activity and Steel Consumption: The pace of manufacturing and infrastructure development will remain a critical factor shaping scrap demand. Strong steel consumption in sectors such as construction, automotive, and machinery would support higher scrap usage by mills. Conversely, slower industrial growth could temper demand and cap price increases.
- Scrap Supply and Collection Trends: Availability of ferrous scrap will play a key role in determining market balance. Increased demolition activity, manufacturing scrap generation, and improved recycling collection could boost supply. However, if scrap flows remain limited, tighter supply conditions may lend support to prices in the near term.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Which scrap metal recorded the biggest price gain last week (February 27-March 5, 2026)?
Aluminum scrap led the market gains, particularly Aluminum Radiators which rose 6.25% week-on-week.
- Which scrap metal category saw the largest decline?
Copper scrap recorded the steepest drop, with #3 Copper–Light Copper falling 4.09% during the week.
- What factors influenced the week’s scrap price movements?
Key drivers included industrial demand, global supply trends, steel mill inventory levels, freight costs, and trade activity.
- 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.
