Introduction
Plastic prices can fluctuate frequently throughout Canada, especially in Ontario, due to changes in demand and supply that occur every month. Whether you’re selling scrap plastic or scrapping your old vehicle, staying updated on current scrap prices in Ontario helps you make informed, profitable decisions. Timing and knowing the prices can allow you to maximize the money you can get for your scrap! Continue reading to discover the pricing details, factors that contribute to the pricing, and what you can expect to receive this month for various plastics in Ontario.
Reasons Why Scrap Metal Prices Fluctuate
There is a mix of local and global factors that influence scrap metal prices. The markets are often in motion due to the reliance of metal on industries such as construction, car building, and electronics. Here are some of the common influences that could impact scrap prices:
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- Global demand: When countries like China or the United States have increased demand for metal, the price rises.
- Supply levels: If particular metals are scarce, the prices will increase.
- Transportation costs: Transporting and recycling scrap generate fuel usage. If transport fuel costs rise, metal prices may also increase.
- Season: There is often a slowdown in scrap collection during cold months, which can affect pricing.
- Exchange rates: The prices of metals are often quoted throughout the world. Therefore, if the Canadian dollar is weak, it could raise prices for Canadian sellers.
Current Scrap Metal Prices in Ontario (July 2025)
Below are the average prices you can expect for various scrap metals in Ontario this month. These can slightly vary depending on your location, quantity, and scrap yard.
| Metal Type | Average Price (per lb) |
| Copper (Bare Bright) | $4.25 – $4.60 |
| Copper #1 | $4.00 – $4.30 |
| Copper #2 | $3.60 – $3.90 |
| Aluminum (Clean) | $0.85 – $1.10 |
| Aluminum (Dirty) | $0.45 – $0.65 |
| Brass | $2.80 – $3.20 |
| Steel (Shredded) | $0.15 – $0.22 |
| Cast Iron | $0.18 – $0.26 |
| Lead | $0.75 – $0.95 |
| Stainless Steel | $0.75 – $1.05 |
| Car Batteries | $6.00 – $12.00 each |
| Catalytic Converters | $100 – $900 each |
Best Scrap Metals to Sell for High Value
Not all scrap metals will yield the same price. Some scrap metals have a higher price because they are in higher demand and limited supply. Here’s what generally gets the highest price:
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- Copper: Copper is the best scrap metal to recycle, especially “bare bright”. When you see bright copper, you are looking at a metal coming from electrical wire, plumbing pipes, and car radiators. Pure, clean copper will get you the best price, too.
- Brass: Brass is commonly found in old taps, doorknobs, plumbing parts, and sometimes decorations. The bulk of brass is heavier and can get a good price.
- Aluminum: Aluminum may not be worth as much as copper or brass, but you’ve probably noticed, it’s very abundant, and clean aluminum (with no plastic or screws) pays better.
- Stainless Steel: Used in various kitchen items, parts of cars and motorcycles, stainless steel is a heavy-duty metal that pays ok, if you sort it properly.
- Lead and Batteries: Old car batteries are lead and acid, and both components are recycled. All batteries usually just pay a flat rate.
- Catalytic Converters: These are found in vehicles and contain valuable metals like platinum and rhodium. Their value depends on type and make.
Where to Sell Scrap Metal in Ontario?
In Ontario, there are many licensed scrap yards and metal recyclers. Not all places will offer you the same rates or services. So here are some tips:
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- Call ahead to confirm prices.
- Ask if they weigh metal in front of you.
- Ask if they pay cash or e-transfer.
- Check reviews to make sure they are fair and professional.
Most yards offer free scrap pickup for old vehicles or large metal loads. If you scrap a car, there are auto recyclers like Greenway Auto Recycling that will help you with the entire process.
Can You Sell Scrap from Your Car?
Yes, scrapping an old car is a great way to get paid for multiple forms of metal, all in one package. Vehicles provide:
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- The body frame is made of steel and iron
- Aluminum in the wheels and engine parts
- Copper in wiring and electronics
- Catalytic converter with precious metals
The average scrap car in Ontario sells for $400–$1,000, depending on weight and the value of the parts. If your car has reusable parts or a working catalytic converter, you might even get more.
What Affects a Scrap Car’s Value?
When you are scrapping your vehicle, here is what will determine how much you will receive:
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- The weight of your vehicle: The heavier the car, the more steel and aluminum it has, and therefore pay more.
- The current metal market price: When metal prices are high, the value of a scrap car will be higher.
- An intact vehicle: A vehicle that contains an engine, a battery, and a catalytic converter will have a higher scrap value than a vehicle with missing parts.
- Location: Yards in Toronto or Ottawa might offer slightly different rates than rural towns due to transport costs.
- Paperwork readiness: Having your ownership papers ready helps speed up the sale.
Should You Wait for Better Scrap Prices?
Some people try to wait for prices to rise before scrapping their car or selling metal. While this might work with copper or aluminum, it’s not always a good idea with vehicles.
Cars lose value over time. If it’s already not running or leaking fluids, you’ll pay more to keep it parked. Also, scrap prices move slowly. Waiting three months might not change things much. If your car is ready to be scrapped and metal prices are decent, it’s best to go ahead.
Tips for Getting the Best Scrap Value
Here are a few ways to make sure you get the best possible deal:
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- Sort metals before taking them to the yard. Clean metals get better rates.
- Remove non-metal parts like rubber or plastic.
- Know the metal type. Use a magnet to separate ferrous (low-value) from non-ferrous metals.
- Weigh your load if possible, so you know what to expect in payment.
- Sell in bulk if you have a large quantity. Some yards offer higher rates for volume.
Final Thoughts
Scrap metal prices in Ontario are fairly stable right now, and copper, aluminum, and car parts are earning decent returns. If you have an old vehicle sitting in your driveway or unused metal in your home, now is the time to sell. Just be sure to check your local scrap metal rates before going to the yard. And if you’re thinking of scrapping your vehicle, be sure to go with a reputable auto recycling facility such as Greenway Auto Recycling.
They provide free scrap car removal throughout Ontario, help you fill out all of the paperwork, and guide you on how to return your license plates properly. Greenway takes all the fuss out of scrapping your car legally and easily, and is happy to reward you for that scrap vehicle, whether it is running or not.
