Last Updated: March 2026
Georgia Scrap Metal Prices 2026
Current scrap rates for steel, aluminum, copper, and whole vehicles at Georgia scrap yards. Prices per pound and per ton.
Prices reflect typical Georgia market rates as of March 2026. Actual prices vary by location and market conditions. Call a buyer for a guaranteed quote.
Get a Guaranteed Quote: (678) 490-7989Junk Car vs. Scrap Yard — What You Actually Get
Scrap yards pay for raw metal weight only. Junk car buyers pay for parts, converter value, and metal — which is almost always more.
| Vehicle Type | Scrap Yard (metal weight only) | Junk Car Buyer (total value) |
|---|---|---|
| Small Car / Compact (under 2,500 lbs) | $100 – $175 | $200 – $500 |
| Full-Size Sedan (2,500–3,500 lbs) | $125 – $245 | $300 – $700 |
| SUV / Crossover (3,500–4,500 lbs) | $175 – $315 | $400 – $900 |
| Pickup Truck (4,000–6,000 lbs) | $200 – $420 | $500 – $1,500 |
| Full-Size Van / Commercial (4,500–6,000 lbs) | $225 – $420 | $400 – $1,200 |
Junk car buyer estimates include parts value and catalytic converter premium. Calculate your junk car value.
Steel Scrap Prices in Georgia
Steel makes up 60–70% of a vehicle's total weight. These are the most relevant grades for auto scrap.
| Grade | Per Pound | Per Ton |
|---|---|---|
| Shredded Steel / Auto Shred | $0.05 – $0.07 | $100 – $140 |
| #1 Prepared Steel | $0.06 – $0.08 | $120 – $160 |
| #2 Prepared Steel | $0.05 – $0.07 | $100 – $140 |
| Cast Iron | $0.06 – $0.09 | $120 – $180 |
| Stainless Steel (201) | $0.20 – $0.35 | $400 – $700 |
| Stainless Steel (304) | $0.35 – $0.55 | $700 – $1,100 |
Aluminum Scrap Prices in Georgia
Aluminum is found in wheels, engine blocks, radiators, and body panels. Higher value per pound than steel.
| Grade | Per Pound | Per Ton |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminum Cans | $0.40 – $0.52 | $800 – $1,040 |
| Aluminum Sheet / Siding | $0.28 – $0.40 | $560 – $800 |
| Aluminum Wheels (clean) | $0.42 – $0.58 | $840 – $1,160 |
| Cast Aluminum | $0.30 – $0.45 | $600 – $900 |
| Radiators (clean aluminum) | $0.50 – $0.65 | $1,000 – $1,300 |
| Aluminum Breakage / Mixed | $0.20 – $0.32 | $400 – $640 |
Copper Scrap Prices in Georgia
Copper is found in vehicle wiring, alternators, starters, and radiators. Highest value non-precious scrap metal.
| Grade | Per Pound | Per Ton |
|---|---|---|
| Bare Bright Copper | $3.20 – $3.60 | $6,400 – $7,200 |
| #1 Copper (clean) | $2.90 – $3.30 | $5,800 – $6,600 |
| #2 Copper (insulated) | $2.60 – $3.00 | $5,200 – $6,000 |
| Copper Wire (insulated) | $0.80 – $1.40 | $1,600 – $2,800 |
| Copper Radiators | $1.50 – $2.20 | $3,000 – $4,400 |
What Affects Scrap Metal Prices in Georgia?
Global Steel Demand
Steel prices are driven by demand from steel mills, which is influenced by construction activity, manufacturing output, and global trade conditions. Prices in Georgia follow the same commodity markets as the rest of the country.
Local Scrap Yard Competition
Metro Atlanta has dozens of scrap yards, which creates competition and generally results in better prices than rural areas. DeKalb County, Fulton County, and Gwinnett County have the highest concentration of buyers.
Vehicle Condition & Completeness
A complete vehicle with all its parts — catalytic converter, battery, wheels, and interior — is worth more than a stripped shell. Buyers deduct for missing parts when calculating offers.
Catalytic Converter Metals (PGMs)
Catalytic converters contain platinum, palladium, and rhodium — precious metals that dramatically affect junk car values. Rhodium prices hit $29,000/oz in 2021 and remain volatile. A single catalytic converter can be worth $50–$800+ depending on the vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current scrap metal price per pound in Georgia?
As of March 2026, shredded steel is approximately $0.05–$0.07/lb. Aluminum ranges $0.30–$0.55/lb by grade. Copper is $2.75–$3.50/lb. Prices change with global commodity markets.
How much will a scrap yard pay for my whole car in Georgia?
Scrap yards typically pay $0.04–$0.07/lb for whole vehicles — meaning a 3,000 lb sedan brings $120–$210. Junk car buyers like RidOfMyCar pay more by factoring in parts and converter value, typically $300–$700 for the same sedan.
Is it better to sell to a junk car buyer or a scrap yard in Georgia?
Junk car buyers almost always pay more because they value the complete vehicle — not just scrap weight. They also provide free towing, which scrap yards typically charge for or require you to deliver the vehicle yourself.
Do scrap metal prices change daily in Georgia?
Yes. Scrap metal prices fluctuate based on commodity markets and can change weekly or daily. For a guaranteed current offer, call RidOfMyCar at (678) 490-7989.
Get More Than Scrap Prices for Your Car
RidOfMyCar pays for parts value and converter value on top of scrap weight — typically 2–4x what a scrap yard offers. Free towing included.
Call (678) 490-7989 for an Instant Offer