Scrap Metal Prices in the UK from December 2025: What to Expect

Scrap metal prices in the UK have seen notable shifts heading into December 2025, influenced by global demand, supply chain changes, and commodity markets. For households clearing garages or businesses managing waste in areas like Manchester or Birmingham, current rates offer opportunities to turn metal into cash. Metal recycling prices vary by type—copper, aluminium, steel—and location, with yards paying per tonne or kilogram. This guide covers typical prices for common metals, factors driving changes, and tips for getting quotes, based on industry data from the British Metals Recycling Association and market trackers.

Current Scrap Metal Prices Overview (December 2025 Estimates)

Prices fluctuate daily, but averages provide a snapshot:

Metal Type Average Price per Tonne Notes
Copper (Bright Wire) £6,000-£7,500 High demand from electrical and construction
Aluminium £1,200-£1,800 Lightweight, used in cans and extrusions
Steel/ Iron £150-£300 Volume from appliances and vehicles
Brass £3,500-£4,500 Mix of copper and zinc, plumbing fittings
Lead £1,000-£1,500 Batteries and roofing
Stainless Steel £800-£1,200 Nickel content adds value
Nickel (in alloys) Varies with content Tracked separately in specialist yards

Copper scrap metal prices today lead due to renewable energy projects. Metal aluminium prices hold steady with packaging recycling.

Factors Influencing Prices in 2025

Global demand from China and Europe drives copper and nickel higher. UK construction slowdowns affect steel. Energy costs impact smelting, passing to buyers. Brexit-related trade adjusts supply chains. Seasonal clear-outs boost household scrap in winter.

Regional Variations in the UK

London and Southeast yards pay premiums for volume. Northern England and Scotland offer competitive rates for industrial scrap. Wales sees steady aluminium from cans. Local yards like those in Leeds or Glasgow adjust for transport.

Common Sources of Scrap Metal

  • Household: Old wiring, radiators, cans  
  • Vehicles: Catalytic converters (high value), body parts  
  • Construction: Pipes, beams  
  • Appliances: Washing machines, fridges (steel heavy)

Weigh and sort for better rates—clean metal fetches more.

Tips for Selling Scrap

Contact multiple yards for quotes—prices differ. Use apps or sites like Scrap Metal Prices UK for live updates. Prepare ID and transport. Larger loads often negotiate better.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

Recycling saves energy—aluminium uses 95% less than new production. Supports jobs in the sector employing 40,000.

Conclusion

Scrap metal prices from December 2025 reflect market dynamics, offering returns for cleared items. Check local rates for current figures.