Aluminum is a vital metal used in a wide range of industries, from construction and automotive to packaging and electronics. Its lightweight properties, resistance to corrosion, and recyclability make it one of the most sought-after metals on the market. In Port Arthur, Texas—a city with an industrial heritage and a strong presence in oil, gas, and shipping—aluminum plays a key role in both manufacturing and recycling sectors.

If you’re in Port Arthur looking to buy or sell aluminum scrap, understanding the price per pound is essential. This article provides a detailed overview of current aluminum pricing, the different types of aluminum scrap, the factors that affect prices, and tips for maximizing your return.

Average Aluminum Price Per Pound in Port Arthur

Aluminum prices change regularly based on market conditions, local demand, and global trading activity. In Port Arthur, average aluminum scrap prices per pound typically fall into the following ranges:

• Clean Aluminum Sheet: $0.50 – $0.65 per pound

• Aluminum Cans: $0.40 – $0.55 per pound

• Aluminum Siding: $0.45 – $0.60 per pound

• Cast Aluminum: $0.40 – $0.55 per pound

• Aluminum Radiators (Clean): $0.90 – $1.10 per pound

• Dirty Aluminum (Mixed or Contaminated): $0.25 – $0.35 per pound

• Extruded Aluminum (Clean): $0.70 – $0.90 per pound

These rates vary depending on the scrap yard, cleanliness of the material, and the overall aluminum supply in the region.

Types of Aluminum Scrap

Understanding the category of aluminum scrap you have can significantly impact how much you're paid per pound. Here are the most common types:

1. Aluminum Cans
   These are lightweight and widely accepted by recycling centers. Clean, crushed cans fetch better prices and are easy to transport.

2. Clean Aluminum Sheet
   Flat aluminum without paint, glue, or attachments. This type is often used in signs or siding.

3. Cast Aluminum
   Found in machinery parts, engine components, and cookware. It may have imperfections or impurities, slightly lowering its value.

4. Extruded Aluminum
   Comes from window frames, door frames, and structural applications. Clean extrusions can earn top dollar due to high purity.

5. Aluminum Siding and Gutters
   Common in building demolition and remodeling projects. May contain some paint or caulk, which can reduce pricing slightly.

6. Radiators and Heat Exchangers
   These often contain a mix of aluminum and copper. Clean units without plastic or steel parts are more valuable.

7. Dirty or Contaminated Aluminum
   Includes aluminum mixed with steel, plastic, or paint. Requires extra processing, so buyers pay less for this material.

Factors Affecting Aluminum Prices in Port Arthur

Like all commodities, aluminum pricing is influenced by several key factors:

1. Global Market Prices
   Aluminum is traded on international metal exchanges. Global supply and demand, energy costs, and geopolitical events all impact pricing.

2. Local Demand and Supply
   In an industrial hub like Port Arthur, where construction, shipping, and oil refining are active, demand for aluminum is steady, supporting strong local pricing.

3. Recycling Rates and Availability
   The availability of recyclable aluminum in the area affects pricing. More supply often results in slightly lower rates, while scarcity may drive prices up.

4. Fuel and Transport Costs
   The cost of transporting scrap aluminum affects what local yards can offer. Port Arthur’s proximity to shipping routes and refineries helps keep costs manageable.

5. Condition and Purity of Scrap
   Clean, sorted aluminum always fetches a better price than dirty or mixed scrap. Removing contaminants like screws, paint, or plastic is worth the effort.

Tips for Getting the Best Aluminum Scrap Price

1. Sort and Clean Your Scrap
   Separate different aluminum types (cans, sheets, cast, extrusions) and clean off any non-aluminum attachments. This increases the value of each batch.

2. Weigh Your Material Beforehand
   Knowing your total weight helps ensure you're paid fairly and lets you compare offers accurately between buyers.

3. Check Prices Regularly
   Since aluminum prices can change daily, stay informed by calling local scrap yards or checking industry pricing boards.

4. Bundle or Compress Lightweight Scrap
   Cans and foil take up a lot of space. Crushing or bundling them can make transport more efficient and allow for easier weighing.

5. Build Relationships with Local Yards
   Frequent sellers may receive better rates or preferred service from recycling centers that value their business.

Where to Sell Aluminum in Port Arthur

Port Arthur has several recycling facilities and scrap metal buyers, thanks to its industrial base. Nearby areas such as Beaumont and Orange also have active recycling markets. Look for scrap yards that:

• Accept a wide variety of aluminum types

• Offer digital scales for transparency

• Provide competitive, up-to-date pricing

• Have a clean and organized yard

• Are licensed and environmentally compliant

Conclusion

Aluminum recycling is a smart way to earn extra cash while supporting environmental sustainability. In Port Arthur, the aluminum price per pound is influenced by a mix of global trends and local economic activity. By staying informed, sorting your materials properly, and working with reputable buyers, you can get the best possible return for your aluminum scrap.