If you're looking to sell scrap metal in Texas, knowing the latest prices can help you maximize profits. This 800-word guide covers current rates for all major metals, top places to sell, and expert tips for getting the best deals.
1. Current Scrap Metal Prices in Texas (July 2024)
Prices vary by metal type, purity, and location. Here’s the latest breakdown:
Non-Ferrous Metals (Per Pound)
| Metal | Price Range | Common Sources |
|---|---|---|
| Copper (Bare Bright) | $3.50 - $4.00 | Clean, uncoated wire |
| Copper #1 | $3.20 - $3.70 | Pipes, tubing (no solder) |
| Copper #2 | $2.80 - $3.30 | Solder/paint allowed |
| Aluminum Cans | $0.35 - $0.60 | Beverage containers |
| Aluminum Extrusions | $0.55 - $0.85 | Window frames, clean alloy |
| Brass | $1.80 - $2.40 | Plumbing fixtures |
| Stainless Steel | $0.45 - $0.85 | Appliances, cookware |
| Lead | $0.40 - $0.80 | Batteries, weights |
Ferrous Metals (Per Ton)
| Metal | Price Range | Common Sources |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy Steel (HMS #1) | $210 - $250 | Beams, machinery |
| Shredded Steel | $160 - $200 | Cars, appliances |
| Cast Iron | $130 - $170 | Pipes, engine blocks |
| Light Iron (Tin) | $90 - $130 | Sheet metal, auto bodies |
Prices fluctuate daily—check with local yards for exact rates.
2. Where to Sell Scrap Metal in Texas?
Top Scrap Yards by City
| City | Best Scrap Yards | Contact | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston | SA Recycling, Sims Metal | (713) 670-1000 | Best for bulk sellers |
| Dallas | Alter Trading, Commercial Metals | (214) 421-6444 | Competitive pricing |
| San Antonio | Texas Port Recycling | (210) 223-9966 | Good for small loads |
| Austin | Gardner Metals | (512) 385-7777 | Fast payments |
Pro Tip: Call ahead to confirm:
✔ Current prices
✔ Minimum weight requirements
✔ Accepted materials
3. How to Get the Best Price for Scrap Metal
Do This:
✅ Sort by metal type (copper, aluminum, steel, etc.)
✅ Clean & prepare scrap (remove plastic, rubber, dirt)
✅ Sell in bulk (100+ lbs gets better rates)
✅ Compare multiple buyers before selling
Avoid This:
✖ Mixing different metals (lowers value)
✖ Selling dirty/contaminated loads
✖ Forgetting ID (Texas requires seller documentation)
4. Why Prices Vary Across Texas
Regional Differences:
Houston/Gulf Coast: Highest prices (strong industrial demand & exports)
Dallas/Fort Worth: Competitive market
San Antonio/Austin: Slightly lower but growing demand
West Texas: Steady oilfield-related scrap needs
Key Factors Affecting Prices:
Global metal markets (LME, COMEX)
Local industrial demand
Fuel & transportation costs
Seasonal trends (summer/fall = higher prices)
5. Future Market Outlook
? 2024 Projections:
Copper & aluminum prices expected to rise 5-10%
Steel prices may stabilize after Q3
Growing demand from EVs & renewable energy
? Emerging Trends:
More AI-powered scrap sorting
Increased export demand from Mexico
Tighter quality standards for recycling
