What are the latest scrap metal prices?

Scrap metal recycling is a thriving industry in Ireland, offering environmental benefits and financial returns for both individuals and businesses. Whether you’re clearing out old appliances, renovating, or managing industrial waste, staying informed about the latest scrap metal prices helps you make smart decisions and maximise your earnings. This article provides an overview of current market trends, price updates, and how professional services can help you manage your scrap metal efficiently.

Current Scrap Metal Prices in Ireland

Scrap metal prices fluctuate regularly due to global supply and demand, energy costs, and geopolitical factors. Here’s a snapshot of the latest median prices for common scrap metals as of mid-2025:

• Iron and Steel: Approximately €220 per metric tonne
• Steel: Around €190 per tonne, with car bodies slightly lower at €180 per tonne
• Copper: A high-value metal ranging from €3.80 to €5.70 per kilogram depending on grade
• Brass: About €3.20 per kilogram
• Lead: Approximately €1.30 per kilogram
• Aluminium: Roughly €1 per kilogram
• Stainless Steel: Around €0.50 per kilogram

Specialty items like catalytic converters can fetch between €40 and €550 each, depending on condition and type.

Prices vary based on location, quantity, quality, and market conditions. Larger, well-sorted loads typically command better prices than small or mixed batches.

Factors Affecting Scrap Metal Prices

• Global Demand and Supply: Economic growth and manufacturing trends influence metal demand.
• Energy Costs: Rising energy prices increase production costs, impacting scrap values.
• Geopolitical Events: Trade policies and supply chain disruptions cause price volatility.
• Metal Quality and Purity: Clean, sorted metals attract higher prices than contaminated scrap.
• Local Market Conditions: Proximity to recycling centres and transport costs affect pricing.

Maximising Your Returns on Scrap Metal

• Sort Metals by Type: Separate ferrous and non-ferrous metals to increase value.
• Clean Your Scrap: Remove plastics, rubber, and other contaminants.
• Collect Larger Quantities: Bulk scrap loads usually receive better prices.
• Stay Updated: Follow market trends and price alerts from scrap metal indices.
• Use Professional Collection Services: Trusted companies can advise on preparation and offer efficient collection.

Scrap Car Prices in Ireland

Scrap cars are a major source of recyclable metal. In early 2025, average scrap car prices in Ireland ranged between €238 and €242 per vehicle. Selling scrap vehicles promptly is recommended, as values typically decline with age.

Environmental Benefits of Recycling Scrap Metal

Recycling metal conserves natural resources, reduces energy consumption, and lowers greenhouse gas emissions compared to mining and producing new metals. Responsible disposal and recycling support Ireland’s sustainability goals and circular economy initiatives.

How Professional Services Can Help

Using expert rubbish disposal and scrap metal collection services ensures your materials are handled legally and efficiently. These services provide convenient collection, proper sorting, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations, helping you get the best value while supporting sustainable waste management.

Keeping track of the latest scrap metal prices in Ireland empowers you to make informed decisions when disposing of metal waste.

By preparing your scrap properly and partnering with reliable collection services, you can maximise your returns and contribute to a greener Ireland.

For those with household scrap, industrial metal waste, or scrap vehicles, understanding market dynamics and using professional disposal services is key to success.