Scrap Metal Prices: Weekly Market Report- January 23-29, 2026
Weekly Metal Price Report | 2026-01-30 13:28:22
Zinc scrap prices edged up modestly in several categories, while international steel scrap benchmarks also exhibited jump in prices, indicating rebound in market activity.
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 January 23–29, 2026.
Copper scrap markets experienced an overall positive week-on-week trend, with prices increasing in most segments. However, Cu/Al Radiator Ends prices showed no change on the index. The top three gainers were Cu/Al Radiators/Fe, Cu/Al Radiators and Xmas Lights. Cu/Al Radiators/Fe delivered the strongest gains, rising 8.06% compared with the prior week.
Aluminum scrap prices recorded notable jump across-the-board on the Scrap Monster Price Index. All scrap varieties registered increase, upon comparision with the prior week. In the meantime, the top gainer was Al/Cu Radiators/Fe, whose prices were up by 8.06% 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 stable, with no reported price fluctuations across major trading hubs.
Zinc scrap prices edged up modestly in several categories, while international steel scrap benchmarks also exhibited jump in prices, indicating rebound in market activity.
In the meantime, stainless steel scrap prices recorded no variation over the previous week's prices.
In short, prices showed a broadly positive week-on-week trend, led by strong gains in copper- and aluminum-based materials, while brass, bronze, zinc, and steel also edged higher. Lead and stainless steel prices remained stable, with minimal or no movement, reflecting mixed but generally improving market conditions.
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
- Strong Demand from Energy Transition Sectors – Rapid expansion of electric vehicles, renewable energy, power grids, and data centers is sharply increasing demand for copper, aluminum, and other conductive metals, supporting higher scrap consumption.
Tight Primary Metal Supply – Mine disruptions, declining ore grades, smelter closures, and production caps—especially in copper and aluminum—are constraining primary supply, shifting buyers toward secondary raw materials.
Decarbonization and ESG Pressures – Industrial decarbonization targets are accelerating substitution of primary metals with recycled feedstock, as scrap processing requires significantly lower energy and emits less CO₂.
- Industrial Recovery and Infrastructure Spending – Infrastructure investment, grid upgrades, urban construction, and manufacturing recovery are driving steady downstream demand for non-ferrous inputs.
- Inventory Tightness and Stockpiling– Low exchange inventories and precautionary stockpiling amid geopolitical risks are amplifying short-term price volatility and strengthening near-term demand.
- Technological Improvements in Scrap Processing – Advances in sorting, shredding, and refining technologies are improving recovery rates and metal purity, expanding the usable scrap supply base.
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 4.80%. #1 Copper Wire and Tubing climbed on the Index, up by 4.89%, while #2 Copper Wire and Tubing inched up by 4.97%.
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 | 0.28 | +4.80% |
| #1 Copper Wire and Tubing | 0.28 | +4.89% |
| #2 Copper Wire and Tubing | 0.28 | +4.97% |
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 $0.28 per pound as of Thursday, January 29, 2026, a weekly jump of ↑4.80%. #1 Copper Wire & Tubing went higher by $0.28 per pound, registering an increase by ↑4.89% from the prior week. By the end of the week, the price of #2 Copper Wire and Tubing had recorded a rise by ↑4.97% , moving higher by $0.28 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 $0.28 per pound as of Thursday, January 29, 2026, a weekly jump of ↑4.97%. #1 Copper Wire & Tubing edged higher by $0.28 per pound, registering an increase by ↑5.06% from the prior week. By the end of the week, the price of #2 Copper Wire and Tubing had edged higher by ↑5.16%.
USA West Coast Copper Scrap Prices
#1 Copper Bare Bright’s prices on the Scrap Monster Price Index increased by $0.28 per pound as of Thursday, January 29, 2026, a weekly increase of ↑4.76%. #1 Copper Wire & Tubing inched higher by $0.28 per pound, registering a jump by ↑4.84% from the prior week. #2 Copper Wire and Tubing prices had recorded an increase by ↑4.93% as at the end of the week.
International Comparison
China Copper Scrap Prices
- All of the copper scrap categories recorded sharp upmove on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Top Gainers: #2 Copper Wire and Tubing ↑7.00%, #1 Copper Wire and Tubing ↑6.93%, #1 Insulated Copper Wire 85% Recovery ↑6.72%
India Copper Scrap Prices
- All copper scrap categories recorded week-over-week jump on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
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 2.11% to close the week at $1.45 per Lb on the Scrap Monster Price Index. 6063 Extrusions ended the week at $1.09 per pound, edging higher marginally by 1.87% from the prior week, while Old Cast prices inched up by 2.17% week-on-week. UBC prices also registered week-on-week increase by 2.15%.
Charts
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in E.C. Aluminum Wire, 6063 Extrusions, Old Cast and UBC.
Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
0.03 | +2.11% | |
0.02 | +1.87% | |
0.02 | +2.17% | |
0.02 | +2.15% |
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 2.11% as of Thursday, January 29, 2026. 6063 Extrusions edged higher by 1.87% compared with the previous week. Old Cast prices increased from $0.92 per Lb to $0.94 per Lb during the week, while UBC prices also increased by 2.15% 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 1.90%. Old Cast prices reported an increase of 2.25% week-on-week, whereas UBC prices were up by 2.20%.
USA West Coast Aluminum Scrap Prices
The price of E.C. Aluminum Wire on the Scrap Monster Price Index recorded an increase of 2.11% as of Thursday, January 29, 2026. 6063 Extrusions were up by 1.87%, upon comparison with the prior week. By the end of the week, the price of Old Cast increased by $0.02 per Lb. Also, UBC prices recorded a week-on-week jump by 2.13%.
International Comparison
China Aluminum Scrap Prices
- All aluminum scrap categories recorded increase from the previous week's prices on the Scrap Monster Price Index. Aluminum Transformers posted the biggest jump, rising by ↑5.94%. Old Cast and Old Sheet prices also were up significantly by ↑5.75% each on the Index.
India Aluminum Scrap Prices
- All aluminum scrap categories remained flat on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Aluminum ingot prices remained unchanged, holding firm at last week’s levels.
- The price of Aluminum utensil scrap also remained unchanged during the week ended January 29, 2026.
BRASS/BRONZE SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices: Over the previous week, there was a jump in brass/bronze scrap prices. Yellow Brass’s prices increased by 2.10% during the course of the week . Red Brass closed on a higher note, rising by 2.01% during the week.
Charts
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in Yellow Brass and Red Brass.
Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
0.07 | +2.01% | |
0.07 | +2.10% |
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 2.01% as of Thursday, January 29, 2026. Yellow Brass prices also jumped higher on the Index.
USA Midwest Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
By the conclusion of the week ended January 29, 2026, the price of Red Brass had recorded a jump of 2.04%, upon comparison with the beginning of the week. Additionally, Yellow Brass prices edged higher by 2.15% week-on-week.
USA West Coast Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
Red Brass went higher by $0.07 per pound, witnessing a jump of ↑1.94% from the prior week. By the end of the week, the price of Yellow Brass had increased by 2.05% on the Index.
International Comparison
China Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
- All brass/bronze scrap categories recorded increase on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Top Gainer: Yellow Brass ↑2.70%
India Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
- All brass/bronze scrap categories recorded week-over-week jump on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
LEAD SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Lead Scrap Prices: Lead scrap prices stayed flat throughout the week, reflecting stable market conditions. Scrap Auto Battery prices remained unchanged, closing the week with little movement.
Chart
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in Scrap Auto Batteries.
Category | Price Change ($) | % 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, January 29, 2026.
USA Midwest Lead Scrap Prices
By the conclusion of the week ended January 29, 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, January 29, 2026.
International Comparison
China Lead Scrap Prices
- Soft Lead and #2 Lead scrap prices posted marginal week-over-week decline on the Scrap Monster Price Index. The prices of these categories were down by 0.36% each over the prior week.
- Auto Battery prices recorded no variation, holding steady at the previous week's price.
India Lead Scrap Prices
- All lead scrap categories recorded week-over-week increase on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Top Gainer: Lead ingot ↑3.16%
ZINC SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Zinc Scrap Prices: Zinc scrap prices edged higher upon comparison with the previous week's prices. New Zinc Die Cast prices were up by 3.66%. Also, Old Zinc Die Cast prices posted a jump of 4.35% 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 |
0.03 | +3.66% | |
0.03 | +4.35% |
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 jump by 3.66% as of Thursday, January 29, 2026. Also, Old Zinc Die Cast prices were up by 4.35% over the previous week.
USA Midwest Zinc Scrap Prices
By the conclusion of the week ended January 29, 2026, the prices of New Zinc Die Cast and Old Zinc Die Cast recorded increase from the previous week’s price levels.
USA West Coast Zinc Scrap Prices
The prices of New Zinc Die Cast witnessed week-over-week jump of 3.66% on the Scrap Monster Price Index as of Thursday, January 29, 2026. Similarly, the Old Zinc Die Cast prices closed at a higher level, recording a jump of 4.35% week-over-week.
International Comparison
- Shred zinc scrap prices recorded a jump of ↑1.19% on the Scrap Monster Price Index. The commodity's price edged higher during the week ended January 29, 2026, recording a jump of CNY 200 per MT.
- Tin Slab prices held steady week-over-week on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Zinc slab prices recorded a notable jump of ↑7.99% over the previous week
FERROUS SCRAP
Market Drivers
Expansion of Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) Steelmaking – Accelerated investment in EAF capacity—particularly in India, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East—is structurally lifting scrap demand, as these furnaces rely heavily on ferrous scrap as their primary feedstock
Export Restrictions and Trade Controls – Export curbs and stricter licensing regimes in Europe, Russia, Ukraine, and Central Asia are limiting international scrap availability, intensifying competition among importing regions
Weak but Stabilizing Global Steel Demand – Although steel demand remains subdued in China and parts of Europe, improving activity in India and Southeast Asia is partially offsetting this weakness, supporting scrap imports
Low Scrap Inventories and Restocking Activity – Mills and traders are rebuilding inventories amid supply uncertainty, adding short-term price support and contributing to market volatility
- Regional Supply-Demand Imbalances– Declining consumption in mature markets such as Japan, Europe, and North America contrasts with growing demand in South Asia, reshaping trade flows and price formation
- Policy-Driven Market Tightening in Europe- Increased customs surveillance and environmental regulations in the EU are making certified low-residual scrap more valuable, pushing prices higher and tightening export supply
STEEL SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Steel Scrap Prices: Steel scrap prices showed upward movement over the past week, indicating a steady market environment. #1 HMS prices surged by 2.82%, while Shredded Auto Scrap edged higher by 3.75%. HMS 80/20 posted a week-over-week jump of 1.79%, and #1 Busheling were up by 1.23% over the previous week.
Charts
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in #1 HMS, Shredded Auto Scrap, HMS 80/20, and #1 Busheling.
Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
10 | +2.82% | |
15 | +3.75% | |
5 | +1.75% | |
5 | +1.23% |
Access our Daily Scrap Metal Price Report Hub
Track real-time prices via our US Scrap Price Index
USA East Coast Steel Scrap Prices
The price of #1 HMS on the Scrap Monster Price Index reported a jump of 2.82% as of Thursday, January 29, 2026. Shredded Auto Scrap prices were up by $15 per MT on the Index upon comparison with the prior week. By the end of the week, the price of HMS 80/20 had increased by 1.79%. #1 Busheling prices also were up by 1.23% over the previous week.
USA Midwest Steel Scrap Prices
#1 HMS prices edged higher by $10 per MT on the Scrap Monster Price Index. Shredded Auto Scrap wrapped up the week on a strong note, showing a rise of $15 per MT from the beginning of the week. The HMS 80/20 prices were up by $5 per MT. Also, the price of # Busheling recorded a jump of $5 per MT week-over-week.
USA West Coast Steel Scrap Prices
#1 HMS’s price on the Scrap Monster Price Index recorded 2.82% surge as of Thursday, January 29, 2026. Shredded Auto Scrap witnessed a jump of 3.75% during the week. By the end of the week, the price of HMS 80/20 had increased by 1.79%. #1 Busheling prices also edged higher by 1.23% over the previous week.
International Comparison
China Flat
China Steel Scrap Prices
- All the steel scrap categories held steady on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- #1 HMS and Cast Iron Scrap prices were flat on the Index.
STAINLESS STEEL SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Stainless Steel Scrap Prices: Over the previous week, stainless steel scrap prices reported no variation on the Scrap Monster Price Index. 304 SS Solid scrap prices held steady on a week-on-week basis.
Chart
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in 304 SS Solid scrap.
Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
0 | Nil |
Access our Daily Scrap Metal Price Report Hub
Track real-time prices via our US Scrap Price Index
USA East Coast Stainless Steel Scrap Prices
The price of 304 SS Solid on the Scrap Monster Price Index recorded no change as of Thursday, January 29, 2026.
USA Midwest Stainless Steel Scrap Prices
304 SS Solid prices witnessed no fluctuation on the Scrap Monster Price Index. The price of the commodity held steady during the week.
USA West Coast Stainless Steel Scrap Prices
The price of 304 SS Solid on the Scrap Monster Price Index recorded no movement. The prices were flat during the week ended Thursday, January 29, 2026.
International Comparison
China ↓1.61%
China Stainless Steel Scrap Prices
- All the stainless steel scrap categories recorded decline on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Top Losers: 201 SS ↓2.26%, 304 SS Turning ↓1.72%
See all Stainless steel daily reports → | Stainless Steel Price Index → | Related Stainless steel news →
Weekly Market Drivers
- Mills & buy programs- AISI: U.S. Steel Output Up 4.6% YoY
- Global production- worldsteel Reports 2% Drop in 2025 Global Steel Output
- 2025 Annual Steel Output- 2025 Steel Rankings Highlight China's Dominance Amid Rising India, US Output- worldsteel
- Export/Import Trade- Poland Pushes for EU Action Against Ukraine's Scrap Steel Export Limits
- MoUs/ Acquisitions- Hanwha Ocean and Algoma Steel sign MoU to Support Canadian steel and jobs
Global Comparison & Policy Impact
USA vs. China/India
Steel: ↑2.39%
- Stainless Steel: U.S.- Flat ; China ↓1.61%
Expert Quote:
“Ferrous scrap markets remained largely range-bound over the past week, as tight supply conditions provided underlying price support, while cautious mill procurement and muted finished steel demand limited upside potential. Most buyers continued to operate on a hand-to-mouth basis, reflecting ongoing uncertainty in downstream markets,” said Rohit Malhotra, Senior Ferrous Scrap Market Analyst at Global Metals Insights.
Market Outlook
- Rising Strategic Importance of Scrap- As decarbonization targets tighten globally, scrap will increasingly be treated as a strategic raw material, prompting investments in collection networks, processing capacity, and recycling infrastructure.
- Cautious Mill Procurement Strategies- Mills are likely to continue adopting hand-to-mouth buying strategies due to uncertainty in finished steel demand, limiting sustained price rallies despite supply tightness.
- Premiumization of Clean and Low-Residual Scrap- Demand for high-purity, low-residual scrap will strengthen as steelmakers seek better furnace efficiency, lower emissions, and improved product quality, creating price differentials between grades.
- Greater Market Volatility- Increased sensitivity to macroeconomic shifts, energy costs, freight rates, and geopolitical risks will result in sharper price swings and shorter market cycles.
- Structural Tightness in Scrap Supply- Scrap availability is expected to remain constrained due to slower industrial generation, export restrictions, and logistical bottlenecks. This structural tightness will keep prices supported, even during periods of weak steel demand.
In short, ferrous scrap markets are set for continued supply tightness, higher volatility, and growing price differentiation, driven by decarbonization efforts, cautious mill buying, and demand for cleaner grades. These factors will support prices while keeping market sentiment fragile amid macro and demand uncertainties.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the overall trend in North American scrap prices during Jan 23–29, 2026?
Prices showed a broadly positive week-on-week trend, led by strong gains in copper and aluminum, with steel, brass, and zinc also rising.
- What were the key drivers behind the price increases?
Strong demand from energy transition sectors, tight primary metal supply, decarbonization pressures, infrastructure spending, and low inventories.
- What was the international price trend for copper scrap?
Copper scrap prices surged globally, with China up 6.82% and India up 8.57%, outperforming U.S. gains.
- 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.
