ScrapSteel & Iron (Ferrous) Scrap Prices in the US
In-depth analytics for ferrous scrap (steel and iron) prices in the US. 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.
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 2 grades, price is steady for 2 grades, and price is down for 7 grades.
Steel & Iron (Ferrous) scrap prices by grade in the US
Prepared steel (HMS #1) is the benchmark; unprepared, light iron, and turnings all grade lower. Click any grade to get a detailed price chart, market analysis, and a list of yards currently paying the most.
Scrap yards paying the most for ferrous scrap (steel and iron) in the US
Live prices from local scrap yards across the U.S.. Compare offers and find the buyer paying the most.
C & C Cullet LLC
Benton Metal Recycling
Conservit, Inc.
JB's Salvage, Inc
Stuff Recycling
CMC 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 across the U.S..
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) | $436 / ton CME | $358 / ton | High Grade•82% |
| Plate & Structural Steel (P&S) | $436 / ton CME | $280 / ton | High Grade•64% |
| #1 Prepared Steel (HMS) | $436 / ton CME | $269 / ton | Mid Grade•62% |
| #2 Prepared Steel | $436 / ton CME | $258 / ton | Mid Grade•59% |
| Light Iron & Shredder | $436 / ton CME | $258 / ton | Mid Grade•59% |
| Unprepared Steel (Torch & Shear) | $436 / ton CME | $235 / ton | Mid Grade•54% |
| Cast Iron (Heavy) | $436 / ton CME | $224 / ton | Mid Grade•51% |
| Tin (Sheet Metal) | $436 / ton CME | $179 / ton | Low Grade•41% |
| Steel Turnings | $436 / ton CME | $112 / ton | Low Grade•26% |
| Rebar | $436 / ton CME | $101 / ton | Low Grade•23% |
| Wire Fence | $436 / ton CME | $101 / ton | Low Grade•23% |
📊 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.