Factors that Affect Scrap Metal Prices in California
Several factors affect scrap metal prices in California. These include:
Supply and demand: The supply and demand for scrap metal play a significant role in determining its price. When the supply of scrap metal is high, prices tend to be lower. However, when demand is high, prices tend to increase.
Economic conditions: Economic conditions can have a significant impact on scrap metal prices. During times of economic growth, demand for scrap metal increases, which can cause prices to rise. Conversely, during economic downturns, demand can decrease, causing prices to drop.
Commodity prices: Scrap metal prices are also influenced by the prices of other commodities, such as copper, aluminum, and steel. These metals are often used in manufacturing and construction, and their prices can affect the demand and supply of scrap metal.
Global market conditions: Global market conditions can also impact scrap metal prices. If the demand for scrap metal is high in other countries, this can cause prices to rise in California.
Types of Scrap Metal in California
There are several types of scrap metal that are commonly recycled in California, including:
Copper: Copper is a valuable metal that is often used in electronics, plumbing, and construction. It is one of the most sought-after metals in the scrap industry due to its value and versatility.
Aluminum: Aluminum is a lightweight metal that is used in a variety of industries, including aerospace, automotive, and construction. It is also highly recyclable and is often used in the production of new aluminum products.
Steel: Steel is a strong and durable metal that is used in construction, manufacturing, and transportation. It is also one of the most commonly recycled metals in California.
Brass: Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc that is commonly used in plumbing and electrical applications. It is also highly valuable in the scrap industry.
Scrap Metal Prices in California Scrap metal prices in California can vary depending on the type of metal, the location of the scrap yard, and the current market conditions. The following tables provide an overview of average scrap metal prices in California
Copper Scrap Metal Prices in California:
| Type | Price Per Pound |
|---|---|
| Bare Bright | $4.80 - $5.15 |
| #1 Copper | $4.70 - $5.05 |
| #2 Copper | $4.50 - $4.85 |
| Insulated Wire | $1.10 - $1.25 |
Aluminum Scrap Metal Prices in California:
| Type | Price Per Pound |
|---|---|
| Cans | $0.60 - $0.65 |
| Extrusion | $0.80 - $0.85 |
| Sheet | $0.60 - $0.65 |
| Cast | $0.35 - $0.40 |
Steel Scrap Metal Prices in California:
| Type | Price Per Ton |
|---|---|
| Light Iron | $90 - $100 |
| HMS | $100 - $110 |
| Cast Iron | $130 - $140 |
| Motor Blocks | $190 |
| Type | Price Per Pound |
|---|---|
| Soft Lead | $0.30 - $0.35 |
| Hard Lead | $0.45 - $0.50 |
| Lead Batteries | $0.20 - $0.25 |
Scrap Iron Prices in California:
| Type | Price Per Ton |
|---|---|
| Light Iron | $90 - $100 |
| Heavy Iron | $150 - $160 |
| Cast Iron | $130 - $140 |
| Motor Blocks | $190 |
Scrap Stainless Steel Prices in California:
| Type | Price Per Pound |
|---|---|
| 304 Stainless Steel | $0.60 - $0.65 |
| 316 Stainless Steel | $0.85 - $0.90 |
| Magnetic Stainless Steel | $0.20 - $0.25 |
Scrap Nickel Prices in California:
| Type | Price Per Pound |
|---|---|
| Nickel Solids | $7.00 - $7.50 |
| Nickel Turnings | $5.00 - $5.50 |
Scrap Car Prices in California:
| Type | Price Per Ton |
|---|---|
| Cars | $150 - $200 |
| Trucks | $200 - $250 |
| SUVs | $250 - $300 |
It's important to note that these prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the location of the scrap yard and the current market conditions. Additionally, the condition and quantity of the materials being sold can also impact pricing. Therefore, it's always best to check with your local scrap yard for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
Here are 15 scrap yards in California along with their contact details:
| Scrap Yard Name | Location | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Ace Metal Company | 1045 N La Brea Ave, Inglewood, CA | (310) 419-4200 |
| Atlas Metal & Iron Corp. | 1100 N. San Fernando Rd, Los Angeles | (323) 234-4662 |
| B & C Auto Wreckers | 365 Freeway Dr, Napa, CA | (707) 224-2446 |
| C & M Metals Inc. | 9291 Bond Ave, El Cajon, CA | (619) 440-5686 |
| D & D Recycling | 11505 Tuxford St, Sun Valley, CA | (818) 767-3088 |
| Ecco Recycling | 2929 Monterey Hwy, San Jose, CA | (408) 494-4200 |
| Fullerton Recycling | 1101 W Commonwealth Ave, Fullerton | (714) 870-8555 |
| H&C Metals Inc. | 6001 Martin Luther King Jr Way, Oakland | (510) 839-5919 |
| JFR Salvage Inc. | 2215 South East Ave, Fresno, CA | (559) 268-7100 |
| L & M Auto Wrecking | 3155 Monterey Rd, San Jose, CA | (408) 227-4500 |
| Pacific Iron & Metal | 1411 N Market Blvd, Sacramento, CA | (916) 922-1234 |
| S.F. Metal Industries | 285 Amador St, San Francisco, CA | (415) 431-7500 |
| SA Recycling | 101 S Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA | (800) 468-7272 |
| Schnitzer Steel | 2935 Whipple Rd, Union City, CA | (510) 471-6600 |
| United Metals Recycling | 2233 E Washington Blvd, Los Angeles | (213) 749-4191 |