Last Updated: August 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 — updated August 2026.
Prices reflect typical Georgia market rates as of August 2026. Actual prices vary by location and market conditions. RidOfMyCar.com, based in Snellville, GA 30039, pays above scrap-yard rates by valuing catalytic converters and usable parts — plus free towing included.
Get a Guaranteed Quote: (678) 490-7989Answer Summary
What are the current scrap metal prices in Georgia for 2026?
In Georgia (August 2026), shredded steel / auto shred is $0.06–$0.09 per pound ($120–$180/ton). Aluminum wheels fetch $0.42–$0.58/lb. Bare bright copper is $3.20–$3.60/lb. Whole junk cars bring $200–$1,500 from buyers like RidOfMyCar.com in Snellville, GA — significantly more than scrap yards ($120–$420) because we value catalytic converters and reusable parts. Call (678) 490-7989 for a guaranteed offer.
Last Updated:
Quick Answers
What are current Georgia scrap metal prices in 2026?
In Georgia (August 2026): shredded steel / auto shred is $0.06–$0.09/lb ($120–$180/ton). Aluminum wheels fetch $0.42–$0.58/lb. Copper wire runs $0.80–$1.40/lb (insulated) to $3.20–$3.60/lb (bare bright). Catalytic converters add $50–$400+ per vehicle. These rates drive junk car offers of $200–$1,500 depending on vehicle weight and condition.
Should I sell to a scrap yard or a junk car buyer in Georgia?
A junk car buyer like RidOfMyCar.com almost always pays more. Scrap yards pay only for raw steel weight ($120–$210 for a 3,000-lb sedan). Full-service buyers add converter value and reusable parts — paying $300–$700 for the same car. Plus RidOfMyCar includes free towing throughout Metro Atlanta and Georgia; scrap yards typically require delivery.
Is towing free?
Yes. RidOfMyCar.com provides completely free towing on every vehicle purchase throughout Metro Atlanta and Georgia — no fees deducted from your offer.
How fast can I get paid?
Same day in most cases. We typically schedule pickup within 24 hours of accepting an offer and pay cash or check on the spot at pickup.
Do I need a title?
Not always. Georgia allows title-exempt sales for qualifying vehicles. Call (678) 490-7989 to confirm eligibility for your specific car.
What vehicle conditions does RidOfMyCar accept?
Any condition: running, non-running, wrecked, flooded, fire-damaged, no title, missing parts, high mileage. Condition affects the offer slightly but never prevents a sale throughout Georgia.
How do scrap steel prices affect my junk car value?
Directly. Scrap steel is the largest component of a junk car's value — making up 60–70% of vehicle weight. At Georgia 2026 rates of $0.06–$0.09/lb, a 3,500-lb sedan yields $210–$315 in steel alone. When steel prices rise, junk car offers rise proportionally. Call (678) 490-7989 for today's exact rate.
How do I get a quote from RidOfMyCar?
Call (678) 490-7989 or use the online form at RidOfMyCar.com. Takes under 5 minutes, no obligation. Based in Snellville, GA 30039, serving all of Metro Atlanta and Georgia.
Junk 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. Free towing is also included with RidOfMyCar.com.
| 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's scrap value or see what your junk car is worth in Georgia.
Steel Scrap Prices in Georgia
Steel makes up 60–70% of a vehicle's total weight. Shredded steel / auto shred at $0.06–$0.09/lb is the primary driver of junk car offers in Georgia.
| Grade | Per Pound | Per Ton |
|---|---|---|
| Shredded Steel / Auto Shred | $0.06 – $0.09 | $120 – $180 |
| #1 Prepared Steel | $0.07 – $0.09 | $140 – $180 |
| #2 Prepared Steel | $0.06 – $0.08 | $120 – $160 |
| 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 — aluminum wheels fetch $0.42–$0.58/lb.
| 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 at $2.60–$3.60/lb.
| 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. When steel markets are strong, junk car offers rise — see current Georgia junk car values for today's pricing.
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. RidOfMyCar.com serves all Metro Atlanta cities including Atlanta, Decatur, and Conyers.
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. RidOfMyCar.com buys cars in any condition: running, non-running, wrecked, flooded, or fire-damaged.
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. This is a major reason full-service junk car buyers pay 2–4x more than scrap yards for the same vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current scrap metal price per pound in Georgia?
As of August 2026, shredded steel / auto shred is approximately $0.06–$0.09/lb ($120–$180/ton). Aluminum ranges $0.28–$0.65/lb by grade. Copper is $2.60–$3.60/lb. Prices change with global commodity markets. For a guaranteed current offer, call RidOfMyCar.com at (678) 490-7989.
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.com pay more by factoring in parts and converter value, typically $300–$700 for the same sedan. Use our junk car scrap value calculator to estimate your vehicle's total worth.
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. RidOfMyCar.com serves all of Metro Atlanta and Georgia from Snellville, GA 30039.
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.com at (678) 490-7989. Also see junk car prices by weight for how weight and rates combine to determine your vehicle's value.
Get More Than Scrap Prices for Your Car
RidOfMyCar.com pays for parts value and converter value on top of scrap weight — typically 2–4x what a scrap yard offers. Free towing included throughout Metro Atlanta and all of Georgia. Based in Snellville, GA 30039.
Call (678) 490-7989 for an Instant Offer