Scrap Metal Prices: Weekly Market Report- November 21-27, 2025
Weekly Metal Price Report | 2025-12-01 09:29:51
The most significant jumps were observed in categories such as Xmas Lights, #3 Copper- Light Copper, #2 Copper Wire and Tubing, #1 Copper Wire and Tubing, and #1 Copper Bare Bright.
By Paul Ploumis
MONTREAL (Scrap Monster): The weekly market price trends in North America for various scrap metal categories on the Scrap Monster Price Index for the week of November 21-27, 2025 are given in the report that follows:
Copper scrap prices recorded week-on-week increase across the board, except Cu/Al Radiator Ends. The most significant jumps were observed in categories such as Xmas Lights, #3 Copper- Light Copper, #2 Copper Wire and Tubing, #1 Copper Wire and Tubing, and #1 Copper Bare Bright. The jump in prices marks a reversal in trend from the previous week.
Aluminum scrap prices registered increase across categories on the Scrap Monster Price Index. The largest week-on-week jump in prices was recorded in Aluminum Transformers, whose prices surged by 5.88%. Also, noatble price jumps were seen in Aluminum Radiators/Fe and Mixed Aluminum Turnings, whose prices were up by 5.26% and 4.17% respectively.
Brass and bronze scrap prices moved higher across all major categories last week, reflecting heightened purchasing momentum and solid demand for these alloy metals in the market.
Meanwhile, the lead and zinc scrap sectors held steady, as pricing remained flat across major trading hubs without notable fluctuation.
Steel scrap grades such as #1 HMS, HMS 80/20, and #1 Busheling recorded no notable movement globally. In contrast, Shredded Auto Scrap prices recorded slight decline over the week.
Stainless steel scrap values recorded noticeable gains in North America and throughout the stainless grades in China, driven by evolving demand patterns that strengthened momentum across regional markets.
In short, Copper and aluminum scrap prices posted broad week-on-week gains, led by strong increases in categories such as Copper Bare Bright and Aluminum Transformers. Brass and bronze strengthened across the board, supported by active buying, while lead and zinc remained unchanged. Steel scrap stayed mostly flat globally except for a slight dip in Shredded Auto Scrap. Stainless steel scrap climbed noticeably in North America and China, reflecting improving demand trends.
Overall, the market demonstrated mixed but improving sentiment, with widespread gains in nonferrous categories offset by flat or weaker movement in select ferrous segments.
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 – Electrical & Electronics Demand
Copper scrap demand is largely driven by electrical wiring, electronics, and renewable energy sectors, where recycled copper serves as a cost-effective alternative to primary copper. Aluminum – Automotive & Packaging Growth
The automotive and beverage packaging industries heavily rely on aluminum scrap, with lightweighting trends in vehicles and increased beverage can production boosting recycled aluminum usage.- Brass – Plumbing & Industrial Applications
Brass scrap demand is influenced by plumbing fixtures, valves, and industrial components, as buyers prefer recycled brass for cost efficiency and material consistency. - Stainless Steel – Construction & Appliance SectorStainless steel scrap is driven by construction, kitchen appliances, and industrial equipment demand, where recycled stainless grades help manufacturers meet both cost and environmental targets.
- Non-ferrous scrap market is driven by industrial demand, global metal prices, environmental regulations, and trade policies, all of which influence supply, pricing, and recycling activity.
COPPER SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Copper Scrap Prices: Over the past week, copper scrap prices recorded a modest uptick, reflecting growing market momentum. #1 Copper Bare Bright experienced a 3.05% rise, while #1 Copper Wire and Tubing climbed to $4.96 per pound, marking a 3.12% increase from the week’s start. Meanwhile, #2 Copper Wire and Tubing prices moved up from $4.71 to $4.86 per pound, posting a weekly gain of 3.18%.
Charts
The table below provides weekly price variations in #1 Copper Bare Bright, #1 Copper Wire and Tubing and #2 Copper Wire and Tubing.
| Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
| #1 Copper Bare Bright | 0.15 | +3.05% |
| #1 Copper Wire and Tubing | 0.15 | +3.12% |
| #2 Copper Wire and Tubing | 0.15 | +3.18% |
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 incresaed by $0.15 per pound as of Thursday, November 27, 2025, a weekly jump of ↑3.05%. #1 Copper Wire & Tubing went higher by $0.15 per pound, registering an increase by ↑3.12% from the prior week. By the end of the week, the price of #2 Copper Wire and Tubing had recorded a rise by ↑3.18% , moving from $4.71 per pound to $4.86 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 $0.15 per pound as of Thursday, November 27, 2025, a weekly jump of ↑3.18%. #1 Copper Wire & Tubing edged higher by $0.15 per pound, registering an increase by ↑3.25% from the prior week. By the end of the week, the price of #2 Copper Wire and Tubing had edged higher by ↑3.33% to close the week at $4.66 per pound.
USA West Coast Copper Scrap Prices
#1 Copper Bare Bright’s prices on the Scrap Monster Price Index increased by $0.15 per pound as of Thursday, November 27, 2025, a weekly increase of ↑3.02%. #1 Copper Wire & Tubing inched higher by $0.15 per pound, registering a jump by ↑3.09% from the prior week. #2 Copper Wire and Tubing prices had recorded an increase by ↑3.15% as at the end of the week.
International Comparison
China Copper Scrap Prices
- All of the copper scrap categories edged higher on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Top Gainers: #2 Copper Wire and Tubing ↑1.56%, #1 Copper Wire and Tubing ↑1.54%, #1 Copper Bare Bright ↑1.48%
India Copper Scrap Prices
- All copper scrap categories recorded week-over-week increase on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
ALUMINUM SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Aluminum Scrap Prices: Over the previous week, there was a broad recovery in aluminum scrap prices. E.C. Aluminum Wire prices edged higher by ↑1.60% to $1.27 per Lb. 6063 Extrusions closed at $0.98 per pound, registering an increase of ↑2.08% from the previous week's price. Old Cast recorded a jump from $0.82 per pound to $0.84 per pound, rising by ↑2.44% over the previous week. Also, the price of UBC reported an increase by ↑2.41% during the course of the week.
Charts
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in E.C. Aluminum Wire, 6063 Extrusions, Old Cast and UBC.
Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
0.02 | +1.60% | |
0.02 | +2.08% | |
0.02 | +2.44% | |
0.02 | +2.41% |
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 ↑1.60% as of Thursday, November 27, 2025. 6063 Extrusions were up by ↑2.08% to close at $0.98 per pound, upon comparison with the prior week. By the end of the week, the price of Old Cast increased by ↑2.44% on the Index. Also, UBC prices recorded a week-on-week increase of ↑2.41%, rising from $0.83 per pound to $0.85 per pound.
USA Midwest Aluminum Scrap Prices
Over the previous week, aluminum scrap prices witnessed an increase. E.C. Aluminum Wire prices inched higher by ↑2.44% to $1.27 per Lb. 6063 Extrusions closed at $0.96 per pound, posting a jump of ↑2.13% from the previous week's price. Old Cast prices reported a jump from $0.79 per pound to $0.81 per pound, rising by ↑2.53% over the previous week. Also, the price of UBC recorded an upward movement of ↑2.44% during the course of the week.
USA West Coast Aluminum Scrap Prices
The price of E.C. Aluminum Wire on the Scrap Monster Price Index recorded a jump of ↑1.60% as of Thursday, November 27, 2025. 6063 Extrusions were up by ↑2.08% to close at $0.98 per pound, upon comparison with the prior week. By the end of the week, the price of Old Cast increased by ↑2.41% on the Index. Also, UBC prices recorded a week-on-week increase of ↑2.38%, rising from $0.84 per pound to $0.86 per pound.
International Comparison
China Aluminum Scrap Prices
- Majority of the aluminum scrap categories recorded increase from the previous week's prices on the Scrap Monster Price Index. Old Cast and Old Sheet prices recorded the biggest jumps, rising by ↑0.80% each on the Index.
India Aluminum Scrap Prices
- All aluminum scrap categories recorded week-over-week increase on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Top Gainers: Aluminum ingots ↑1.13%, Aluminum utensil scrap ↑1.17%
BRASS/BRONZE SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices: Over the previous week, there was a modest increase of ↑1.63% in brass/bronze scrap prices. Yellow Brass’s prices edged higher by ↑1.67%. Red Brass closed at $3.20 per pound, up ↑1.59% from the beginning of the week.
Charts
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in Yellow Brass and Red Brass.
Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
0.05 | +1.59% | |
0.05 | +1.67% |
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 by $0.05 per pound as of Thursday, November 27, 2025, a weekly jump of ↑1.59%. Yellow Brass edged higher by $0.05 per pound, recording a jump by ↑1.67% from the prior week.
USA Midwest Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
By the conclusion of the week ended November 27, 2025, the price of Red Brass had increased by ↑1.62% to $0.05 more per pound. Additionally, Yellow Brass prices recorded week-on-week jump by ↑1.72%.
USA West Coast Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
Red Brass went higher by $0.05 per pound, witnessing a jump of ↑1.54% from the prior week. By the end of the week, the price of Yellow Brass had increased by ↑1.63%, moving higher by $0.05 per pound.
International Comparison
China Brass/Bronze Scrap Prices
- All brass/bronze scrap categories recorded increase on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Top Gainer: Yellow Brass ↑0.54%
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 values showed no movement over the past week, remaining completely stable. Scrap Auto Battery prices held firm at $0.24 per pound by week’s end, reflecting an unchanged market position.
Chart
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in Scrap Auto Batteries.
Category | Price Change ($) | % 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, November 27, 2025.
USA Midwest Lead Scrap Prices
By the conclusion of the week ended November 27, 2025, 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, November 27, 2025.
International Comparison
China Lead Scrap Prices
- Soft Lead and #2 Lead scrap prices posted decline on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Auto Battery prices were unchanged at CNY 6,750 per MT.
India Lead Scrap Prices
- All lead scrap categories recorded week-over-week decline on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Top Loser: Lead ingot ↓0.56%
ZINC SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Zinc Scrap Prices: Zinc scrap pricing remained flat throughout the past week, with no recorded changes. New Zinc Die Cast continued to trade at $0.82 per pound, while Old Zinc Die Cast held unchanged at $0.69 per pound by week’s end.
Charts
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in New Zinc Die Cast and Old Zinc Die Cast.
Category | Price Change ($) | % 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 change as of Thursday, November 27, 2025. Also, Old Zinc Die Cast prices remained flat over the previous week.
USA Midwest Zinc Scrap Prices
By the conclusion of the week ended November 27, 2025, the prices of New Zinc Die Cast and Old Zinc Die Cast recorded no variation from the previous week’s price levels.
USA West Coast Zinc Scrap Prices
The prices of New Zinc Die Cast and Old Zinc Die Cast recorded no variation on the Scrap Monster Price Index as of Thursday, November 27, 2025. Similarly, the New Zinc Die Cast prices remained unchanged week-over-week.
International Comparison
- Shred zinc scrap prices recorded no variation on the Scrap Monster Price Index. The commodity's price remained stable at CNY 16,000 per MT during the week ended November 27, 2025.
- Tin Slab prices held steady week-over-week on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- Zinc slab prices edged higher by ↑1.32% over the previous week
FERROUS SCRAP
Market Drivers
Steel Mill Production & Demand: Ferrous scrap demand is closely tied to steel mill output, especially in electric-arc furnaces, where recycled scrap is a primary raw material.
Global Steel Prices : Rising steel prices encourage mills to purchase more scrap as a cost-effective alternative, while falling prices can dampen scrap demand.
Infrastructure & Construction Activity: Large-scale infrastructure projects and construction growth directly boost ferrous scrap consumption for rebar and structural steel production.
Scrap Collection & Recycling Efficiency: Availability and quality of collected scrap influence supply levels, pricing, and market stability in both domestic and export markets.
- Trade Policies & Export Restrictions: Tariffs, import/export regulations, and regional trade agreements impact scrap flows and can create price fluctuations in local and global markets.
STEEL SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Steel Scrap Prices: Steel scrap pricing mostly remained stable throughout the past week with no noticeable shifts. #1 HMS held its prior level at $315 per MT, while Shredded Auto Scrap finished at $365 per MT, falling by $5 per MT over the week. HMS 80/20 continued to trade at $255 per MT, and #1 Busheling also stayed flat at $380 per MT, reflecting a more or less stable market with slight price declines.
Charts
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in #1 HMS, Shredded Auto Scrap, HMS 80/20, and #1 Busheling.
Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
0 | Nil | |
-5 | -1.37% | |
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
The price of #1 HMS on the Scrap Monster Price Index reported no change as of Thursday, November 27, 2025. Shredded Auto Scrap prices were down marginally by ↓1.37% on the Index upon comparison with the prior week. By the end of the week, the price of HMS 80/20 had recorded no change. #1 Busheling prices also were flat over the previous week.
USA Midwest Steel Scrap Prices
#1 HMS prices held steady on the Scrap Monster Price Index. Shredded Auto Scrap closed the week at $360 per MT, registering a decline by $5 per MT from the beginning of the week. The HMS 80/20 prices were stable. Also, the price of # Busheling recorded no weekly variation.
USA West Coast Steel Scrap Prices
#1 HMS’s price on the Scrap Monster Price Index was flat as of Thursday, November 27, 2025. Shredded Auto Scrap witnessed a minor decline of ↓1.37% in prices, falling by $5 per MT from the prior week. By the end of the week, the price of HMS 80/20 had recorded no fluctuation. #1 Busheling prices also held steady 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 at $1,630 and $1,730 per MT respectively.
STAINLESS STEEL SCRAP PRICES
Market Highlights
North America Stainless Steel Scrap Prices: Over the previous week, stainless steel scrap prices mostly increased on the Scrap Monster Price Index. 304 SS Solid scrap prices recorded week-on-week jump, rising by ↑1.67%.
Chart
The table below provides weekly price fluctuations in 304 SS Solid scrap.
Category | Price Change ($) | % Change |
0.02 | +1.67% |
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 jump of ↑1.67% as of Thursday, November 27, 2025.
USA Midwest Stainless Steel Scrap Prices
304 SS Solid prices edged higher on the Scrap Monster Price Index. The price of the commodity reported increase by ↑1.67% to end the week at $0.61 per pound.
USA West Coast Stainless Steel Scrap Prices
The price of 304 SS Solid on the Scrap Monster Price Index recorded increase, edging higher from $0.60 per pound at the beginning of the week to close at $0.61 per pound as of Thursday, November 27, 2025.
International Comparison
China ↑0.99%
China Stainless Steel Scrap Prices
- All the stainless steel scrap categories witnessed marginal increase on the Scrap Monster Price Index.
- 310 SS scrap prices rose ↑2.33%, registering a jump from CNY 15,000 per MT to CNY 15,350 per MT.
- 201 SS and 316 SS Solid prices inched up by ↑2.02% and ↑1.89% respectively.
See all Stainless steel daily reports → | Stainless Steel Price Index → | Related Stainless steel news →
Weekly Market Drivers
- Mills & buy programs- U.S. Raw Steel Output Climbs 9.2% Year-Over-Year in Late November: AISI Report
- Trade/policy- Steel Industry says Carney is moving in the right direction, but needs to pick up the pace
- Tariffs- US-EU Trade Talks Link Steel Tariffs to EU Tech Rules
- Recycling Market Trends- UK Scrap Export Curbs Could Trigger Major Job Losses, BMRA Cautions Government
Global Comparison & Policy Impact
USA vs. China/India
Copper: U.S. ↑1.82%– ↑3.25%; China- ↑1.53%; India- ↑1.15%
Aluminum: U.S.-↑1.60%– ↑5.88%; China- ↑0.77%; India- ↑1.15%
Steel: Flat trend across all major regions, with minor decline seen in Shredded Auto Scrap
- Stainless Steel: U.S. ↑1.67%; China- ↑0.99%
Expert Quote:
“The US ferrous scrap market appears to be entering a holding pattern for November. Their Outlook Trend Indicator edged up slightly — suggesting “slight bullishness,” though momentum remains modest, predicting only a small ~0.7% month-on-month scrap price rise.” — Fastmarkets (US ferrous-scrap survey — November 2025)
Market Outlook
- Stable to mildly bullish pricing trend — Prices are expected to remain largely steady with limited upward movement driven by selective regional demand.
- EAF steelmaking growth boosts scrap demand — Expansion of electric-arc furnaces and decarbonization policies will increase consumption of recycled steel.
- Regional divergence continues — Markets like the US and Turkey show improving demand while parts of Asia and EU remain softer.
- Higher quality scrap to gain premium — Tightening standards and supply constraints will push price gaps between premium and lower-grade scrap wider.
- Import-dependent regions face cost pressure — Countries reliant on imported scrap may experience volatility due to freight, currency and competition from DRI.
- Policy and trade restrictions create uncertainty — Export controls and environmental regulations could restrict supply and disrupt global scrap flows.
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Related Resources
Copper Scrap Prices | Aluminum Scrap Prices | Steel Scrap Prices | Brass Scrap Prices | Scrap Yard Directory | Company Directory | Daily Market Report
POLL
Based on last week’s trends, which market pattern is most likely to continue?
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which scrap categories experienced the strongest price gains last week?
Non-ferrous metals led the market, with copper, aluminum, and brass scrap showing significant week-on-week increases driven by strong buying activity and firm demand.
- Did any scrap category record a decline?
Shredded Auto Scrap posted a slight week-over-week decline, reflecting softer buying interest in that segment.
- Which segment demonstrated positive momentum across global regions?
Stainless steel scrap prices strengthened noticeably in North America and China, supported by improving demand trends and regional market activity.
- How can I track scrap metal prices in real time?
Use the Scrap Monster Price Index or US Scrap Price Index, and access daily reports via the Scrap Monster portal.
- What factors are driving scrap metal price increases this week?
Several key factors are driving scrap metal price increases this week, particularly for non-ferrous metals. Strong buying activity and firm demand are supporting copper, aluminum, and brass prices across major markets. Stainless steel scrap is seeing notable increases in North America and China due to shifting demand patterns and improved regional market activity. Additionally, reduced supply levels in certain categories and increased industrial activity are contributing to upward price momentum across multiple scrap metal segments.
- Which copper scrap categories showed the highest price gains?
The most significant copper price jumps were observed in Xmas Lights, #3 Copper (Light Copper), #2 Copper Wire and Tubing, #1 Copper Wire and Tubing, and #1 Copper Bare Bright. These categories showed significant week-on-week increases driven by strong buying activity and firm demand. The price gains mark a reversal in trend from the previous week, indicating renewed market confidence and increased industrial purchasing activity in the copper scrap sector.
- Are aluminum scrap prices expected to continue rising?
Aluminum scrap prices registered increases across categories this week, with the largest week-on-week jumps seen in Aluminum Transformers. Notable price gains were also recorded in Aluminum Radiators/Fenders and other aluminum categories. The current upward trend is being supported by robust demand and increased buying activity across major markets. However, market conditions remain dynamic, and prices can be influenced by factors such as supply availability, industrial demand, global aluminum prices, and economic conditions. Traders should monitor the Scrap Monster Price Index regularly for the latest market updates and price movements.
- How do weekly scrap metal reports help traders make better decisions?
Weekly scrap metal reports provide critical market intelligence that helps traders optimize their buying and selling strategies. These reports track week-on-week price changes across all major scrap categories, helping traders identify emerging trends and price movements before they become widespread. By analyzing weekly data, traders can time their transactions more effectively, recognize which categories are gaining or losing momentum, and adjust their inventory strategies accordingly. The reports also provide insights into regional market variations and demand patterns, enabling traders to make data-driven decisions rather than relying on speculation. Regular monitoring of weekly reports helps traders stay competitive and maximize profitability in the dynamic scrap metal market.
- Where can I find current scrap metal prices for my region?
The Scrap Monster Price Index provides comprehensive, up-to-date scrap metal pricing information for both North American and international markets. You can access daily price updates through the Scrap Monster portal, which tracks prices across all major scrap metal categories including copper, aluminum, brass, stainless steel, zinc, lead, and various steel grades. The platform also offers a US Scrap Price Index for American markets. For the most accurate regional pricing, you can view specific market reports that break down prices by geography and scrap category. Daily reports are available alongside weekly market summaries that provide broader trend analysis and market insights to help you understand pricing dynamics in your specific region.
