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category Scrap Metal

Copper
Recycling

Copper is one of the most valuable recyclable metals, commonly found in electrical wiring, plumbing pipe, HVAC components, and industrial equipment. Recycled copper retains 100% of its properties and is worth $3-$4+ per pound depending on grade.

What We Accept

All items processed through certified facilities with full documentation.

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check_circleBare bright copper wire (#1)
check_circleInsulated copper wire (#2)
check_circleCopper pipe and tubing
check_circleCopper sheet and plate
check_circleCopper bus bars and windings
check_circleHVAC copper coils and line sets
check_circleCopper fittings and valves
check_circleCopper turnings and grindings

Recycling Process

1

Grading

Copper is graded: #1 Bare Bright (highest — clean, uncoated wire), #1 Copper (clean pipe/sheet), #2 (painted, soldered, or with attachments).

2

Stripping

Insulated wire is stripped to recover bare copper. Thickness and insulation type determine whether mechanical or manual stripping is used.

3

Melting

Clean copper is melted at domestic refineries and cast into new copper rod, sheet, or tube for manufacturing.

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Copper Questions

Common questions about copper recycling.

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Bare bright copper (#1) typically ranges $3-$4+/lb depending on COMEX copper prices. Insulated wire pays less because stripping is required. We quote at current daily rates.

#1 is clean, uncoated, unsoldered copper — bare bright wire or clean pipe. #2 has paint, solder, fittings, or light contamination. The price difference is typically $0.50-$1.00/lb.

Yes. Price depends on copper recovery rate — thicker insulated wire (like Romex) pays more than thin communication cable. We can strip at our facility or buy as-is at insulated rates.

For copper and other non-ferrous metals, we generally pick up at 200+ lbs. Smaller quantities can be dropped off at our partner yards.

Yes — it grades as #2 copper. Clean pipe without solder or fittings grades as #1. Removing fittings before bringing it in maximizes your price.

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