If you're planning to sell scrap metal in Texas, knowing the current prices can make a big difference. The scrap metal industry is always shifting based on supply, demand, global trends, and local market factors. Whether you're a homeowner cleaning out the garage or a contractor with leftover materials, understanding how scrap metal prices in Texas work can help you earn more from your scrap.
Why Scrap Metal Prices Fluctuate
Scrap metal prices in Texas, just like in other states, don’t remain constant. They change due to multiple factors including:
Global Demand: If countries like China or India are buying more metal, prices often go up.
Fuel Prices: Transporting scrap metal gets costlier with high fuel prices, impacting overall rates.
Type of Metal: Not all metals are priced the same. Copper usually pays more than aluminum or iron.
Local Demand: Prices in Dallas may differ from those in Houston or San Antonio.
Most Common Scrap Metals and Their Average Prices in Texas (2025 Estimates)
Here's a rough idea of what certain metals may fetch per pound:
Copper: $3.50 - $4.20/lb
Aluminum: $0.50 - $0.85/lb
Brass: $2.00 - $2.60/lb
Iron: $0.08 - $0.12/lb
Stainless Steel: $0.75 - $1.10/lb
Lead: $0.60 - $0.80/lb
These rates can change weekly or even daily, so it’s always smart to check with your local yard for the latest rates.
Where to Sell Scrap Metal in Texas
Texas has plenty of scrap yards, from small-town centers to large recycling hubs. Some well-known companies include:
CMC Recycling (Dallas, Austin, Houston)
SA Recycling
Action Metals (Dallas)
Allied Alloys (Houston)
Before visiting, call ahead or check their website to ask about current prices, ID requirements, and whether they pay cash or check.
Tips to Get the Best Price
Separate Your Metals: Don't mix copper with aluminum. Sorted scrap always gets a better rate.
Clean Your Scrap: Remove plastic, rubber, or insulation. Clean metals fetch a higher price.
Know Your Weight: Use a home scale to get a rough estimate before heading to the yard.
Check Multiple Yards: One location may offer more for your scrap than another.
Track the Market: Use websites like iScrapApp or Scrap Monster for daily price updates.
Legal Requirements in Texas
To prevent metal theft, Texas has some strict rules when it comes to scrap sales:
You must show a valid photo ID.
Many yards take a photo of the seller and vehicle.
Payment is often made via check or delayed cash, especially for high-value metals like copper.
Some counties may have extra paperwork for large transactions.
Following these rules helps protect you and keeps things legal.
What’s in Demand in 2025?
In 2025, some metals are seeing higher demand due to the green energy movement and electric vehicle manufacturing. These include:
Copper (used in batteries and wiring)
Aluminum (used in car bodies)
Stainless Steel (popular in construction)
So, if you have these metals lying around, now might be a good time to cash in.
Conclusion
Scrap metal prices in Texas can offer a decent side income if you know how the market works. Stay informed, clean and sort your materials, and always compare prices from different yards. With a bit of effort, you can make your recycling trip both rewarding and eco-friendly.
