ScrapSteel & Iron (Ferrous) Scrap Prices in California
In-depth analytics for ferrous scrap (steel and iron) prices in California. Compare local scrap yard buyout rates with CME Steel/Iron exchange benchmarks, use the lot calculator to estimate your payout, and find the yards with the best offers near you.
Local data is supplemented with national averages for the most accurate estimate. The market moves as one trend — use the national figure as your reference point.
Price trends for ferrous scrap (steel and iron) by grade
over the last 90 daysIn the last 3 months in the Steel & Iron (Ferrous) category: price is up for 3 grades, price is steady for 5 grades, and price is down for 3 grades.
U.S. National Price Benchmark — Steel & Iron (Ferrous) in California
Local scrap yards in California sometimes post their prices with a short delay. To keep you informed of what your metal is worth right now, we use U.S. national averages as a reference. The secondary metals market responds to exchange moves in sync across the country — use this national benchmark when negotiating with local buyers. Steel & Iron (Ferrous) prices across the U.S. →
Steel & Iron (Ferrous) scrap prices by grade in California
Here is the Steel & Iron (Ferrous) data we have on file for California. Local yards don't always update their online prices daily — if your grade isn't listed, use the National Benchmark above as leverage when negotiating with local buyers.
Scrap yards paying the most for ferrous scrap (steel and iron) in California
Live prices from local scrap yards in California. Compare offers and find the buyer paying the most.
San Jacinto Recycling Center
Greener Recycling
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🚀 List your scrap yard ⟶Price chart: ferrous scrap (steel and iron) grades and CME Steel/Iron exchange data
The chart shows average yard buyout rates and CME Steel/Iron exchange data for your selected ferrous scrap (steel and iron) grade. When the exchange moves up and local yard prices lag, they typically follow within a few trading days — a signal to hold if you can. When both lines drop, sell now before yards update their offers downward. Switch grades using the selector above the chart.
Calculate the value of your ferrous scrap (steel and iron) lot
Selling a mixed load? Pick the grades below — a weight field appears after you select at least one grade, then the calculator estimates your haul's value from current average prices California.
Compare ferrous scrap (steel and iron) grades and their value
Ferrous scrap pricing follows CME Steel/Iron (US domestic) with local market adjustments. Grade, size, and contamination (concrete, rubber, non-ferrous metals) determine per-ton payout. Identifying your material correctly before selling is the single most effective step to maximize your payout.
| Grade | Exchange (ton) | Yard price (ton) | Grade Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automotive Cast Iron (Rotors/Drums) | $411 / ton CME | $358 / ton | High Grade•87% |
| Plate & Structural Steel (P&S) | $411 / ton CME | $280 / ton | High Grade•68% |
| #1 Prepared Steel (HMS) | $411 / ton CME | $269 / ton | Mid Grade•65% |
| #2 Prepared Steel | $411 / ton CME | $258 / ton | Mid Grade•63% |
| Tin (Sheet Metal) | $411 / ton CME | $190 / ton | Low Grade•46% |
| Unprepared Steel (Torch & Shear) | $411 / ton CME | $190 / ton | Low Grade•46% |
| Cast Iron (Heavy) | $411 / ton CME | $157 / ton | Low Grade•38% |
| Rebar | $411 / ton CME | $157 / ton | Low Grade•38% |
| Light Iron & Shredder | $411 / ton CME | $112 / ton | Low Grade•27% |
| Steel Turnings | $411 / ton CME | $112 / ton | Low Grade•27% |
| Wire Fence | $411 / ton CME | $112 / ton | Low Grade•27% |
📊 What determines the value of ferrous scrap (steel and iron):
- HMS #1 Prepared steel: The benchmark ferrous grade — clean, heavy plate, structural steel, and beam cut to spec. Highest per-ton rate.
- HMS #2 Unprepared: Larger, uncut sections; torched or shear-cut but not fully prepped — priced below HMS #1.
- Plate & structural (P&S): Thick plate, I-beams, and structural sections — often a premium grade or grouped with HMS #1 depending on the yard.
- Cast iron (heavy): Engine blocks, industrial castings — separate price from steel scrap. Cast iron is brittle; test with a file or hammer.
- Light iron & shredder: Thin-gauge sheet, auto bodies, appliances — the lowest ferrous grade. Priced per ton significantly below HMS.
- Rebar: Grade 40/60 rebar — may be priced as structural or light iron depending on condition and quantity.
Map of scrap yards buying ferrous scrap (steel and iron)
The map below shows yards currently listing prices for ferrous scrap (steel and iron). Select your state on the map or from the list to see current per ton rates for all grades at local yards.