Scrap iron price 2026: indicative scrap prices per kilo and tonne

The scrap iron price fluctuates daily under the influence of international market developments, supply and demand, and economic factors. For companies in the manufacturing industry and private individuals selling scrap, it is essential to stay informed about the current prices for various types of metal.

Current scrap prices 2026: overview by metal type

Scrap prices are determined by complex market mechanisms in which international trade flows, industrial demand and geopolitical factors play a crucial role. Prices for scrap iron and other metals fluctuate continuously, with traders and recycling companies adjusting their rates daily to reflect world market prices.

Metal type	Price per kg	Price per tonne	Quality class
HMS Scrap (Heavy Melting Scrap)	€ 0.16 – € 0.22	€ 160 – € 220	Industrial quality
Aluminium	€ 0.80 – € 1.20	€ 800 – € 1,200	Pure aluminium
Copper	€ 5.00 – € 7.00	€ 5,000 – € 7,000	Millberry quality
Stainless steel 304	€ 0.50 – € 0.80	€ 500 – € 800	Standard stainless steel
Tin/can scrap	€ 0.08 – € 0.12	€ 80 – € 120	Sorted tinplate
Lead	€ 1.20 – € 1.60	€ 1,200 – € 1,600	Pure lead
Zinc	€ 1.00 – € 1.40	€ 1,000 – € 1,400	Refined zinc

These prices are updated weekly and are indicative. Actual prices may vary depending on quality, quantity and local market conditions. For up-to-date rates in our current metal prices overview, we recommend contacting local scrap dealers.

Factors that influence the scrap iron price

The price of scrap iron is determined by a complex interplay of local and international factors that affect the supply of and demand for scrap. Understanding these factors helps in optimally timing scrap sales and predicting price developments.

International market prices and trade trends

The world market price for iron and steel forms the basis for local scrap prices. China, as the world's largest steel producer, has an enormous influence on international demand for scrap. When the Chinese economy grows, demand for raw materials rises and so does demand for scrap iron. Conversely, economic slowdowns lead to falling prices.

The London Metal Exchange (LME) serves as the reference point for metal prices worldwide. Daily fluctuations on this exchange are directly translated into local scrap prices. Trade agreements, import tariffs and export restrictions between countries can also have a significant impact on price formation.

Seasonal influences and cyclical patterns

The scrap market shows clear seasonal influences. In winter there is often more demolition and renovation work, resulting in a larger supply of scrap iron. At the same time, demand from the construction industry may decline due to weather conditions, which puts downward pressure on prices.

During the summer months we often see the opposite pattern: less supply due to holiday periods, but higher demand from the construction sector and metalworking in the Netherlands. These cyclical patterns make it possible to plan strategically when to sell scrap.

Leading scrap dealers in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has a well-developed scrap trading market with both large international players and local specialists serving different segments of the market. The choice of dealer can significantly affect the price received for scrap iron.

Large international dealers

Sims Metal Management is one of the largest scrap dealers worldwide and has several locations in the Netherlands. They have advanced processing facilities and can handle large volumes, which often results in competitive prices for industrial suppliers.

EMR (European Metal Recycling) is another international player with a strong position in the Dutch market. They focus on the complete recycling chain, from collection to processing to new raw materials. Their scale enables them to offer stable prices, even during market fluctuations.

Scholten Awater specialises in processing complex metal streams and often offers premium prices for high-grade metals. They are particularly interesting for companies that can properly separate different types of metal and their properties.

Van Dijk Recycling combines local expertise with modern processing techniques. They are known for their flexibility and personal service, which can be especially interesting for smaller suppliers.

Quality classes and sorting of scrap iron

The quality and purity of scrap iron largely determine the price paid for it, with correct sorting and classification being essential for optimal returns. Different grades of scrap are valued differently by the industry.

Heavy Melting Scrap (HMS) classifications

HMS 1 refers to scrap of at least 6mm thickness, free of alloys and with minimal contamination. This type of scrap is highly sought after by steel producers because it can be used directly in blast furnaces without extensive pre-processing. The price is therefore at the top end of the scale.

HMS 2 has a thickness of at least 3mm but may contain more alloys. Although still of good quality, this type of scrap sometimes requires additional processing, which translates into a slightly lower price per tonne.

Shredder scrap is produced by mechanically processing old cars, appliances and other complex metal products. The quality can vary, but modern shredders can produce very pure iron that is competitively priced.

Contamination and quality determinants

Non-ferrous metals such as copper, aluminium or zinc in iron scrap can have both positive and negative effects on the price. Small quantities can increase the value if they are easy to separate, but larger contamination leads to a price deduction.

Organic contamination such as paint, oil or rubber is considered problematic by the industry. Modern trends in the manufacturing industry show an increased focus on clean raw materials, which widens the price differences between clean and contaminated metals.

Optimising scrap sales: timing and strategy

Strategic sale of scrap iron requires insight into market cycles, inventory management and building relationships with reliable dealers in order to realise consistent added value. Companies that generate scrap as a by-product can significantly improve their returns through a professional approach.

Market analysis and price forecasting

Monitoring economic indicators such as construction output, automotive industry output and infrastructure investments provides insight into future demand for steel and therefore for scrap. Countries that announce large infrastructure projects often create temporary price increases.

Currency fluctuations have a direct effect on scrap prices because much trade takes place in US dollars. A weaker euro usually means higher prices for Dutch suppliers, while a stronger euro has the opposite effect.

Inventory management and timing

For companies that regularly produce scrap, it can be worthwhile to develop an inventory strategy. When prices are low, storing scrap until better times can be advantageous, provided that storage costs and capital tie-up justify this.

Spreading sales across different moments can limit price risks. Instead of selling everything at once, partial sales throughout the year can lead to a better average price.

Sustainability and the circular economy in the scrap market

The scrap market plays a crucial role in the transition to a circular economy, in which waste streams are transformed into valuable raw materials for new production. This development affects both price formation and quality requirements in the market.

Environmental impact and CO2 reduction

Using scrap in steel production saves up to 70% of the energy compared with production from iron ore. This environmentally friendly characteristic is increasingly valued by the industry and regulators, which can lead to premium prices for high-grade scrap.

New environmental regulations require more and more companies to report and reduce their CO2 emissions. Using recycled steel instead of new steel helps companies achieve their sustainability targets, which stimulates demand for quality scrap.

The manufacturing industry in the Netherlands is investing more and more in circular production processes in which waste from one process becomes raw material for another. This development creates new opportunities for scrap suppliers.

Technological developments in scrap processing

Innovative technologies such as AI-driven sorting, robotics and advanced separation techniques are revolutionising the scrap industry and influencing price formation through improved quality and efficiency. These developments create new opportunities but also require adjustments in delivery specifications.

Automation and quality control

Modern sorting installations use X-rays, infrared and magnetic fields to separate different types of metal with unprecedented precision. This technology enables dealers to pay higher prices because the output is purer.

Blockchain technology is being used experimentally to trace scrap streams, which improves transparency and quality assurance. Suppliers who can demonstrate where their scrap comes from can achieve premium prices.

On-site spectroscopic analysis enables dealers to immediately determine the exact composition of delivered scrap. This shortens the quality assessment and can lead to faster price determination and payment.

Frequently asked questions about scrap iron prices

How often are scrap prices updated?

At most dealers, scrap prices are updated daily, following international market prices. Large dealers such as Sims Metal and EMR often adjust their prices twice a day, in the morning and in the afternoon, depending on developments on the London Metal Exchange. Smaller local dealers usually work with weekly or daily updates. For suppliers it is important to know that price quotes are often valid for only a few hours in volatile markets.

What is the difference between HMS 1 and HMS 2 scrap?

HMS 1 (Heavy Melting Scrap grade 1) consists of scrap with a thickness of at least 6mm, free of alloys and with minimal contamination. HMS 2 has a minimum thickness of 3mm and may contain more alloys. The price difference is usually 10-20 euros per tonne, with HMS 1 valued higher because of its better suitability for direct processing in steel furnaces. The classification is determined by international standards applied by all major dealers.

Which factors determine whether I get a good price for my scrap?

The price is determined by quality, purity, quantity and market conditions. Clean, sorted scrap without contamination fetches the highest prices. Large quantities (from 5-10 tonnes) usually receive better rates due to lower processing costs per tonne. The relationship with the dealer also plays a role — regular suppliers often receive preferential treatment. The timing of the sale is crucial, as following market trends can lead to a 15-30% price difference.

Can I sell scrap iron as a private individual and what are the conditions?

Private individuals can certainly sell scrap, although the procedures differ per dealer. For small quantities (under 100kg), most scrap dealers accept cash payments. For larger quantities or regular deliveries, dealers usually require identification and sometimes an extract from the population register. Some metal types such as copper cable require proof of lawful acquisition. Prices for private individuals are usually 10-20% lower than industrial rates due to higher processing costs.

How does the international market affect Dutch scrap prices?

Dutch prices closely follow international trends because scrap is a globally traded commodity. China's industrial production has the greatest impact — economic growth there leads to higher demand and prices. Trade tariffs, export restrictions and currency fluctuations also have a direct effect. LME prices form the basis for local price calculations, with Dutch dealers adjusting their margins to local costs and competition. Geopolitical tensions can lead to temporary price peaks due to disrupted trade flows.

What happens to the price if there is contamination in the scrap?

Contamination leads to a price reduction because additional processing is required. Organic contamination such as paint, oil or rubber can cause a 20-50% price reduction. Non-ferrous metals such as copper in iron scrap can be positive or negative — small quantities sometimes increase the value, but large quantities require costly separation. Concrete, wood or plastic always lead to a deduction. Dealers apply different tolerances, but in general: the cleaner the scrap, the higher the price.

Is it more advantageous to sell scrap directly to steel producers?

Direct sale to steel producers is only possible for very large quantities (usually from 1,000 tonnes) of high quality. Steel producers impose strict quality requirements and require extensive documentation and logistical capabilities. For most suppliers, scrap dealers are more advantageous because they accept smaller batches, are more flexible in quality specifications and offer direct payment. Dealers also have expertise in sorting and quality improvement that the majority of suppliers lack.

How can I maximise the value of my scrap?

Sorting is the most important factor — separated metal types fetch considerably more than mixed scrap. Cleaning increases the value: remove paint, oil, rubber and other contamination where possible. Timing is crucial — follow market trends and sell at favourable prices. Build relationships with several dealers so you can compare prices. For regular suppliers, it pays to conclude contracts with minimum price guarantees. Bundling different scrap streams can also lead to a better negotiating position.

For more information about developments in the sector, also listen to the Podcast on the Manufacturing Industry.