Scrap metal recycling is not only a viable economic activity, but it also greatly contributes to environmental sustainability. The city of London, situated in Southwestern Ontario, presents a vibrant market for scrap metal, thanks to its vast industrial sectors, including manufacturing, technology, and healthcare. This article will delve into the current scrap metal prices in London, Ontario, focusing specifically on copper, aluminium, steel, iron, and brass.
Several trustworthy resources can be utilised to find the current scrap metal prices in London, Ontario. Local scrapyards and recycling centres are often the most reliable sources of current prices as they continuously monitor local market dynamics. Given the fluctuation of scrap metal prices due to global market trends, local demand, and scrap quality, it’s advisable to contact these facilities directly or check their websites for the most accurate information.
International benchmark prices for scrap metal can also be referenced on platforms like the London Metal Exchange and various commodities trading websites. However, it’s important to note that these prices may not perfectly mirror the local prices in London, Ontario, due to factors such as transportation costs and local supply-demand dynamics.
Copper is a highly valued scrap metal because of its widespread usage in sectors like electronics, plumbing, and electrical wiring. The demand for scrap copper is consistently high in London, Ontario, contributing to favourable prices.
At present, scrap copper prices in London fluctuate between approximately CAD 8.00 – CAD 11.50 per kilogram, depending on the quality and type of the copper scrap. Clean, pure copper typically commands the highest prices, while mixed or contaminated copper may fetch less.
Recognised for its lightweight and resistance to corrosion, aluminium is extensively used in industries such as automotive and construction. The persistent demand for recycled aluminium in London, Ontario, ensures a solid market for this metal.
While aluminium prices are generally lower than copper due to its more abundant supply and lower production cost, they remain favourable. The current average price ranges from CAD 0.85 – CAD 1.25 per kilogram. However, certain types of aluminium scrap, such as extruded aluminium, may command higher prices.
Steel is one of the most frequently recycled metals worldwide due to its wide usage in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and transportation. In London, Ontario, the demand for scrap steel is robust, influenced by ongoing infrastructure projects and development.
Scrap steel prices in London typically range from CAD 0.16 – CAD 0.24 per kilogram. The price can significantly vary depending on the type and quality of the steel. For example, stainless steel, renowned for its high resistance to rust and corrosion, generally fetches a higher price.
Iron, a fundamental element in many industrial applications, maintains a steady demand in the scrap metal market. In London, Ontario, scrap iron prices are often comparable to steel prices, given that steel is predominantly composed of iron.
On average, scrap iron prices in London range from CAD 0.14 – CAD 0.23 per kilogram. Factors such as the form of the scrap (cast iron, wrought iron, etc.) and its contamination level can influence the exact pricing. Moreover, larger quantities of iron scrap may command better rates due to economies of scale.
Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, is valued for its aesthetic appeal and corrosion resistance. It’s commonly used in fixtures, fittings, and musical instruments. The demand for scrap brass is consistently high in London, Ontario, particularly in the construction and home renovation sectors.
The current rate for scrap brass in London varies between CAD 5.30 – CAD 6.50 per kilogram. Factors such as the quality, quantity, and form of the brass scrap can influence the exact price. Clean, pure brass usually fetches a higher price.
In Conclusion, London (Ontario) has a large quantity of scrap metal recycling facilities in comparison to the population of the city. This is representative of the demand of scrap metal throughout the city. It is always safe to make the assumption that a city with lots of scrap yards or dealers has a high demand for metal and therefore will have high prices for scrap. You will find a number of scrap recycling facilities in the city and also through the surrounding countryside too. The prices are always higher in the countryside. The facilities which provided customers with the best scrap metal prices were; John Zubick Ltd (105 Clarke Road), Gerdau Metals Recycling (2025 River Road) and That Metals Guy (1663 Commissioners Road East). Copper, lead, steel and aluminium are the most regularly traded forms of scrap and coincidentally these also have the highest prices in London and in most of Ontario too.
Most of London has higher prices than in the scrap yards in the rest of the province, but the prices in London do seem to vary a lot from one month to another.
The scrap prices seem to peak towards the end of the year (December onwards) and are at their lowest in July. This has been the pricing trend for at least 5 of the last 10 years and so it is reasonable to assume that it will continue moving forward.
Our recommendations are to take scrap metal to any of your local scrap yards after undertaking a little bit of your own research to see how the prices compare regionally and across the state too.
| Metal Type | Price per Kilo (kg) | Last Updated |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminium | $1.4 | 15-February-2024 |
| Brass | $2.64 | 15-February-2024 |
| Bronze | $1.32 | 15-February-2024 |
| Copper | $4.62 | 15-February-2024 |
| Iron | $1.58 | 15-February-2024 |
| Lead | $3.96 | 15-February-2024 |
| Steel | $1.81 | 15-February-2024 |