Scrap Metal Prices: Weekly Market Report- May 29-June 4, 2026
Weekly Metal Price Report | 2026-06-05 05:38:51
Steel scrap market showed little price movement, supported by steady fundamentals and balanced trading activity.
By MONTREAL (Scrap Monster): This report provides an overview of week-on-week price changes in leading North American scrap metal markets, using data from the Scrap Monster Price Index covering May 29 through June 4, 2026.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Copper scrap prices posted moderate gains, extending the upward momentum observed during the previous week.
- Aluminum scrap prices mostly remained flat on the Index, with a few categories recording week-on-week price jumps.
- Brass scrap segment recorded slight gains from the prior week’s levels.
- Stainless steel scrap market exhibited stable pricing throughout the week.
- Steel scrap market showed little price movement, supported by steady fundamentals and balanced trading activity.
Copper scrap markets reported a modest jump in prices over the previous week. All copper categories, except Xmas Lights and Cu/Al Radiator Ends, posted modest gains on the Index. The clear winner of the week was Cu/Al Radiators, whose prices posted a sharp ↑5.08% increase over the previous week. Cu/Al Radiators/Fe prices also increased by $0.10 per pound, representing a ↑3.65% increase on the Index compared with the prior week.
Aluminum scrap prices mostly remained flat week-on-week on the Scrap Monster Price Index, with a few grades moving higher. The categories that posted weekly jump in prices include Al/Cu Radiators, Al/Cu Radiators/Fe, Aluminum Radiators, Mixed Aluminum Turnings, and 5052 Scrap.
Brass and bronze scrap prices recorded modest increases on the Index, extending the upward trend witnessed during the prior week. In the meantime, North American lead scrap markets remained stable during the week ended June 4, 2026.
Zinc scrap values inched upward during the week. Meanwhile, global steel scrap benchmark prices held steady during the week, reflecting balanced supply-demand dynamics and stable market fundamentals.
Likewise, stainless steel scrap prices remained unchanged on the Index throughout the week under review.
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
Primary Metal Prices (Copper, Aluminum, Nickel, Zinc, Lead)
Movements in primary metal prices directly influence scrap values. Rising prices for refined copper, aluminum, or nickel typically boost demand and pricing for corresponding scrap grades such as copper wire scrap, aluminum extrusion scrap, and stainless steel scrap.Manufacturing and Industrial Activity
Demand from sectors such as construction, automotive, electronics, and machinery affects scrap consumption. For instance, increased electrical equipment production often supports demand for copper scrap, while automotive output drives aluminum scrap demand.Secondary Smelter and Refinery Purchasing
Buying activity by secondary smelters is a major price determinant. Strong procurement by aluminum remelters, brass mills, and lead recyclers can tighten scrap availability and push prices higher.Availability of Obsolete and Industrial Scrap
Supply levels depend on demolition projects, manufacturing offcuts, and end-of-life product recovery. Reduced collection of copper cable scrap or aluminum UBCs (used beverage cans) can create supply shortages and support prices.Stainless Steel and Nickel Market Trends
Stainless steel scrap prices are heavily influenced by nickel and ferroalloy markets. Higher nickel prices generally increase the value of grades such as 304 and 316 stainless steel scrap.Trade Policies and Export Demand
Export restrictions, tariffs, and overseas buying activity significantly impact scrap flows. Strong import demand from major consuming nations can lift prices for copper, aluminum, and brass scrap grades.
In short, the non-ferrous scrap market is primarily influenced by trends in primary metal prices, industrial and manufacturing activity, secondary smelter demand, and the availability of recyclable material. Additional factors such as nickel prices for stainless steel scrap, energy and processing costs, international trade flows, and currency movements also play a crucial role in shaping pricing trends and market sentiment across copper, aluminum, brass, lead, and stainless steel scrap segments.
COPPER SCRAP PRICES
- COMEX Copper Futures closed at USD 6.5120 per pound as of June 4, 2026, modestly higher by around 12¢ (↑1.93%) over the prior week.
- According to the London Metal Exchange, LME Copper 3-month contract's closing price stood at $13,932.00 per tonne.
Market Highlights
North America Copper Scrap Prices: Copper scrap prices posted moderate increases during the past week, continuing the positive trend observed in the preceding week. Prices for #1 Copper Bare Bright rose by ↑2.54%, while #1 Copper Wire and Tubing advanced by ↑2.58%. Meanwhile, #2 Copper Wire and Tubing also strengthened, recording a ↑2.63% increase on the Index.
Charts
The table below outlines the week-on-week price movements for #1 Copper Bare Bright, #1 Copper Wire and Tubing, and #2 Copper Wire and Tubing.
| Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
| #1 Copper Bare Bright | 0.16 | +2.54% |
| #1 Copper Wire and Tubing | 0.16 | +2.58% |
| #2 Copper Wire and Tubing | 0.16 | +2.63% |
Access our Daily Scrap Metal Price Report Hub
Track real-time prices via our US Scrap Price Index
USA East Coast Copper Scrap Prices
USA Midwest Copper Scrap Prices
As of Thursday, June 4, 2026, #1 Copper Bare Bright prices on the Scrap Monster Price Index gained $0.16 per pound, registering a ↑2.62% increase from the previous week. #1 Copper Wire & Tubing prices also advanced by $0.16 per pound, posting a ↑2.67% week-on-week rise. Meanwhile, #2 Copper Wire and Tubing continued its upward trajectory, climbing by the same amount to record a ↑2.71% gain compared with the prior week.
USA West Coast Copper Scrap Prices
According to the Scrap Monster Price Index, #1 Copper Bare Bright prices rose by $0.16 per pound as of Thursday, June 4, 2026, registering a ↑2.50% week-on-week increase. #1 Copper Wire & Tubing prices also gained $0.16 per pound, reflecting a ↑2.54% rise from the previous week. Meanwhile, #2 Copper Wire and Tubing continued to strengthen, posting a ↑2.58% weekly increase by the end of the reporting period.
International Comparison
China Copper Scrap Prices
- All the leading copper scrap categories posted small increases on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- The only categories to remain unchanged were Scrap Electric Motors and Sealed Units
- The top gainers during the week were #2 Insulated Copper Wire 50% Recovery ↑0.65% and Cu/Al Radiators ↑0.63%
India Copper Scrap Prices
- All copper scrap categories recorded a week-over-week jump on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- The commodity to report the biggest increase in prices was Copper sheet cutting, whose prices went higher by INR 44,000 per Ton(↑4.92%).
ALUMINUM SCRAP PRICES
- COMEX Aluminum Futures closed at USD 3,667.60 per metric ton as of June 4, 2026, slightly lower than the previous week's closing price of USD 3,675.00 per metric ton.
- LME Aluminum 3-month contract closed at $3,666.000 per tonne, according to the London Metal Exchange.
North America Aluminum Scrap Prices: Over the past week, E.C. Aluminum Wire ended flat, despite experiencing an upward trend earlier in the week, maintaining the previous week's prices on the Scrap Monster Price Index. 6063 Extrusions also held steady during the week. Old Cast experienced no price fluctuation over the week. Also, UBC prices recorded no change over the same period.
Charts
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in E.C. Aluminum Wire, 6063 Extrusions, Old Cast and UBC.
Category | Price Change ($) | % 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 Aluminum Scrap Prices
The price of E.C. Aluminum Wire on the Scrap Monster Price Index recorded no variation as of Thursday, June 4, 2026. 6063 Extrusions remained unchanged when compared with the previous week. Old Cast prices reported no change in prices over the previous week's closing price. Additionally, UBC prices also held steady on a week-on-week basis.
USA Midwest Aluminum Scrap Prices
Aluminum scrap prices remained largely stable during the past week, with only limited movement across major grades. E.C. Aluminum Wire prices were unchanged from the previous week's closing level, while 6063 Extrusions and Old Cast also held steady, showing no week-on-week variation in prices.
USA West Coast Aluminum Scrap Prices
The price of E.C. Aluminum Wire on the Scrap Monster Price Index reported no change as of Thursday, June 4, 2026. 6063 Extrusions also held steady, compared with the previous week. By the close of the week, Old Cast and UBC prices witnessed no variation over the previous week.
International Comparison
China Aluminum Scrap Prices
- All aluminum scrap categories recorded a modest increase from the previous week's prices on the Scrap Monster Price Index. Aluminum Transformers and Aluminum Radiators posted the biggest jumps, rising by ↑0.45% and ↑0.43% respectively.
India Aluminum Scrap Prices
- All aluminum scrap categories recorded a jump on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- The prices of both Aluminum utensil scrap and Aluminum ingots registered a similar increase, both edging higher by INR 2,000 per Ton.
BRASS/BRONZE SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices: Brass and bronze scrap prices moved higher over the previous week, supported by steady buying activity across the market. Yellow Brass prices recorded a ↑1.44% increase during the week, while Red Brass also ended the period on a stronger footing, advancing by ↑1.38% compared with the previous week.
Charts
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in Yellow Brass and Red Brass.
Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
0.05 | +1.38% | |
0.05 | +1.44% |
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
On the Scrap Monster Price Index, Red Brass prices rose by ↑1.38% as of Thursday, June 4, 2026. Yellow Brass also posted gains, increasing by ↑1.44% on the Index.
USA Midwest Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
By the end of the week ended June 4, 2026, Red Brass prices had risen by ↑1.40% compared to the start of the week. Yellow Brass also recorded a week-on-week increase, edging up by ↑1.47%.
USA West Coast Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
Red Brass prices rose by $0.05 per pound, marking a ↑1.33% increase from the previous week. Meanwhile, Yellow Brass prices also moved higher, gaining ↑1.40% on the Scrap Monster Price Index by week’s end.
International Comparison
China Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
- All brass/bronze scrap categories recorded a slight increase on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Red Brass and Yellow Brass prices edged higher by CNY 200 per MT each.
India Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
- All brass/bronze scrap categories recorded week-over-week jump on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Top Gainer: Brass Cuttings, which was up by INR 12,000 per Ton (↑2.79%)
LEAD SCRAP PRICES
- COMEX Lead Futures recorded a marginal increase of USD 0.55 per Ton (↑0.03%) over the prior week to close at USD 2,020.48 per Ton as of June 4, 2026.
- The closing price of LME Lead 3-month contract was $2,017.00 per metric tonne, as per London Metal Exchange data.
Market Highlights
North America Lead Scrap Prices: Lead scrap prices traded flat over the week, indicating stable supply-demand fundamentals. Scrap auto battery prices also held steady, closing the week at unchanged levels.
Chart
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in Scrap Auto Batteries.
Category | Price Change ($) | % 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, June 4, 2026.
USA Midwest Lead Scrap Prices
By the close of the week ending June 4, 2026, scrap auto battery prices held steady, remaining unchanged from the previous week.
USA West Coast Lead Scrap Prices
The prices of Scrap Auto Batteries recorded no change on the Scrap Monster Price Index as of Thursday, June 4, 2026.
International Comparison
China Lead Scrap Prices
- Auto Battery prices recorded the biggest weekly dip, falling by CNY 50 per MT (↓0.76%) from the prior week's prices.
- Soft Lead and #2 Lead scrap prices posted a week-on-week decline of ↓0.73% and ↓0.74%, respectively, on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
India Lead Scrap Prices
- The prices of all lead scrap categories in the region edged higher over the previous week on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
ZINC SCRAP PRICES
- COMEX Zinc Futures closed at USD 3,587.25 per metric ton as of June 4, 2026, recording a modest increase of USD 52.85 per metric ton (↑1.50%).
- LME Zinc 3-month contract's closing price on the London Metal Exchange: $3,588.00 per tonne
Market Highlights
North America Zinc Scrap Prices: Zinc scrap prices edged higher upon comparison with the previous week's prices. New Zinc Die Cast prices were up by ↑1.18%. Also, Old Zinc Die Cast prices posted a jump of ↑1.39% during the week.
Charts
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in New Zinc Die Cast and Old Zinc Die Cast.
Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
0.01 | +1.18% | |
0.01 | +1.39% |
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 ↑1.18% as of Thursday, June 4, 2026. Also, Old Zinc Die Cast prices were up by ↑1.39% over the previous week.
USA Midwest Zinc Scrap Prices
By the conclusion of the week ended June 4, 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 ↑1.18% on the Scrap Monster Price Index as of Thursday, June 4, 2026. Similarly, the Old Zinc Die Cast prices closed at a higher level, recording a jump of ↑1.39% week-over-week.
International Comparison
China Zinc Scrap Prices
- Shred zinc scrap prices recorded no change on the Scrap Monster Price Index. The commodity's price remained unchanged from the previous week's price during the week ended June 4, 2026.
India Zinc Scrap Prices
- Tin Slab prices held steady week-over-week on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- In contrast, zinc slab prices recorded a jump of INR 4,000 per Ton (↑1.09%) over the previous week
FERROUS SCRAP
Market Drivers
Steel Mill Purchasing Activity
Scrap demand is heavily dependent on procurement by steelmakers. Steady mill buying programs and consistent melt schedules helped support stable ferrous scrap prices during the week.Finished Steel Market Conditions
Prices and demand for products such as rebar, hot-rolled coil, and structural steel influence mills' willingness to pay for scrap. Stable finished steel markets contributed to balanced scrap trading.Export Market Activity
Trading activity in key export destinations, particularly Turkey and Asian markets, continued to influence global ferrous scrap sentiment. Moderate export demand helped prevent downward pressure on prices.Seasonal Scrap Collection Trends
Collection volumes remained relatively consistent, ensuring sufficient supply of obsolete and industrial scrap grades without creating significant market imbalances.Macroeconomic and Industrial Activity
Ongoing manufacturing, construction, and infrastructure activity sustained steel production requirements, helping maintain steady demand for ferrous scrap despite broader economic uncertainties.Raw Material Competition
Relative pricing of iron ore, pig iron, and direct reduced iron (DRI) affected scrap's competitiveness as a steelmaking feedstock. Stable alternative raw material costs supported scrap demand.
Ferrous scrap market conditions during the previous week were largely shaped by balanced mill demand, stable finished steel markets, steady scrap availability, and moderate export activity. Together, these factors contributed to a relatively stable pricing environment with limited upward or downward pressure.
STEEL SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
The closing price of various LME 2-month steel contracts on the London Metal Exchange as of June 4, 2026 is provided below:
Steel Scrap CFR Turkey (Platts) - $401.50 per tonne
Steel Rebar FOB Turkey (Platts) - $590.00 per tonne
Steel Scrap CFR India (Platts) - $389.60 per tonne
North America Steel Scrap Prices: Steel scrap prices remained unchanged from the previous week, reflecting stable market conditions and a balanced supply-demand environment. Prices for #1 HMS held steady at prior-week levels, while Shredded Auto Scrap, HMS 80/20, and #1 Busheling also showed no significant movement, continuing to trade within established price ranges.
According to the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), U.S. raw steel production totalled 1.872 million NT during the week ended May 30, 2026. This is ↑0.10% week-on-week and ↑8.80% year-on-year.
The capability utilization rate stood at 81.1% (compared to 81.0% in the week ending May 23, 2026).
Region-wise production - Northeast-137,000 NT, Great Lakes-495,000 NT, Midwest-321,000 NT, Southern-848,000 NT, Western-71,000 NT
Charts
The table below provides weekly price variations in #1 HMS, Shredded Auto Scrap, HMS 80/20, and #1 Busheling.
Category | Price Change ($) | % 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
Steel scrap prices on the Scrap Monster Price Index remained stable week on week as of Thursday, June 4, 2026, indicating balanced supply-demand fundamentals across the market. #1 HMS prices were unchanged from the prior week, while Shredded Auto Scrap and HMS 80/20 also showed no movement. In addition, #1 Busheling continued to trade flat, highlighting steady conditions across major benchmark ferrous scrap grades.
USA West Coast Steel Scrap Prices
As of Thursday, June 4, 2026, #1 HMS prices on the Scrap Monster Price Index remained flat compared with the previous week. Likewise, Shredded Auto Scrap and HMS 80/20 posted no price changes during the period, while #1 Busheling continued to trade at levels unchanged from the prior 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 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 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, June 4, 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, June 4, 2026.
International Comparison
China ↓0.83%
China Stainless Steel Scrap Prices
- All of the stainless steel scrap categories recorded decline on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Top Losers: 310 SS ↓1.37%, 316 SS Solid ↓1.27%
See all Stainless steel daily reports → | Stainless Steel Price Index → | Related Stainless steel news →
Weekly Market Drivers
- U.S. Steel Mill Production- U.S. Raw Steel Output Up 8.8%, Says AISI
- Wage Talks - POSCO, Hyndai Steel Start Wage Talks Under New Labor Law
- Steel Exports - EU Steel Exports Drop 34% After US Tariff Hike: EUROFER
- Iron Ore - Iron ore falls on thinning steel margins and weak demand
- Steel Recycling- Recycled Steel Critical to Sustainable Steelmaking, Says Report
- Stainless Steel Output- Global Stainless Steel Output Up 2.5% in Q1 2026
- Green Steel- Domestic steel producers need our support to transition to greener production
- Tariffs- Canada to extend US steel and aluminum tariff measures for one year / Trump signs proclamation amending tariffs on steel, aluminum and copper imports
- Scrap Metal - Camden officials call for EMR Recycling to be shut down after another fire
Global Comparison & Policy Impact
USA vs. China/India
Expert Quote:
“June’s ferrous scrap market is expected to remain firm but balanced.” — Jim Schulte, President, B.L. Duke & Company.
Market Outlook
Steady Domestic Steel Mill Demand
Demand from electric arc furnace (EAF) steelmakers is expected to remain supportive in the near term as mills continue operating at healthy utilization rates. Infrastructure activity, automotive recovery and manufacturing demand are helping maintain stable scrap consumption levels.Tight Prime Scrap Availability
Industrial production scrap generation remains below historical averages in several regions, especially for prime grades such as busheling and bundles. Manufacturing efficiency improvements and cautious industrial output are likely to keep premium scrap grades relatively tight over the medium term.Seasonal Improvement in Scrap Flows
Warmer weather conditions in North America and Europe are improving collection activity and logistics efficiency. Increased obsolete scrap inflows may temporarily ease supply tightness, although overall availability is still not considered abundant.- Export Market Support Likely to Continue
Strong buying interest from key importers such as Türkiye, India and parts of Southeast Asia continues to underpin export pricing. Turkish deep-sea bookings and Asian billet demand are expected to remain important indicators for global ferrous scrap direction in the coming months. - Chinese Steel Production Policies to Influence Sentiment
China’s ongoing efforts to control steel output and emissions could indirectly affect global ferrous scrap demand and finished steel pricing. Lower Chinese exports may support steel margins elsewhere, thereby strengthening scrap buying interest globally. - Improving Steel Margins Could Lift Scrap Prices
If finished steel prices stabilize or rise further, mills may become more aggressive in securing raw materials. Better rebar, hot-rolled coil and billet margins could translate into firmer ferrous scrap prices through the medium term.
WATCHLIST FOR UPCOMING WEEK
U.S
- Tue: Advance International Trade in Goods, Wholesale Trade, NAR Existing Home Sales.
- Thu: Producer Price Index (PPI) and Initial Jobless Claims.
Europe (EU & UK)
- Tue: German Trade Balance
- Thu: European Central Bank (ECB) Interest Rate Decision and Monetary Policy Statement.
Asia & Oceania
- Mon: Singapore Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
- Wed: China Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Producer Price Index (PPI)
- Fri: Japan Industrial Production
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Copper Scrap Prices | Aluminum Scrap Prices | Steel Scrap Prices | Brass Scrap Prices | Scrap Yard Directory | Company Directory | Daily Market Report
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POLL
What was the most notable trend in the North American scrap metal market during the week ended June 4, 2026?
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which scrap metal segment recorded the strongest price gains during the week?
Copper scrap was the strongest performer, led by Cu/Al Radiators, which jumped 5.08% week on week.
- How did aluminum scrap prices perform?
Most aluminum scrap categories remained unchanged, with key grades such as E.C. Aluminum Wire, 6063 Extrusions, Old Cast, and UBC showing no weekly price movement.
- What factors influenced scrap metal prices?
Key drivers included primary metal prices, manufacturing activity, secondary smelter demand, scrap availability, export demand, steel mill purchasing activity, and global trade developments.
- 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.
