How Much is Aluminum Scrap UK
Why aluminium prices change
Aluminium scrap pricing depends on the grade (cans, cuttings, alloy sections), global aluminium commodity prices (LME), demand for recycled aluminium, export flows, and local supply. Policy changes, freight costs and seasonal demand for manufacturing can also move prices.
What to check before you sell
- Grade: clean, uncontaminated aluminium (e.g., clean cuttings or sections) fetches higher rates than mixed or painted scrap.
- Cleanliness: aluminium with minimal attached non‑metal (plastic, rubber) is worth more.
- Quantity: small household loads are priced per kg; trade volumes (hundreds of kilos or tonnes) can attract better per‑kg terms.
- Local market: yard-to-yard variation exists — check live local prices.
Example guide prices (illustrative)
Below are common grades with example ranges. These are illustrative — for a precise, live price contact us or check our scrap prices page.
| Aluminium grade | Guide price (per kg) | Typical weight / note |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminium cans (clean, baled) | £1.10 – £1.60 | Small domestic loads — higher when baled and cleaned |
| Clean aluminium cuttings / swarf | £0.95 – £1.30 | Common trade material — West Midlands Metals: £1.10/kg (example) |
| Aluminium alloy sections / H9 | £1.10 – £1.40 | Solid sections and extrusions; West Midlands Metals lists H9 at £1.30/kg |
| Mixed aluminium (dirty / painted) | £0.50 – £0.90 | Lower due to contamination and sorting cost |
Note: West Midlands Metals updates local prices frequently — the live price on our site and at the yard is the price that applies on delivery.
How we handle aluminium at our Birmingham yard
We accept most aluminium grades, weigh on arrival and issue an accurate weight ticket. Clean, separated aluminium is quicker to process and attracts the best rates. For trade quantities we can offer bulk pricing and collection options — contact our team for a tailored quote.
Household recycling
Bring cans and small quantities — baled cans often get the best per‑kg rate.
Trade customers
Large cuttings, extrusions and alloy sections — ask about scheduled collections and bulk pricing.
Top tips to maximise value
- Separate clean aluminium from mixed loads and remove non‑metal attachments.
- Bale cans where possible — baled, clean cans command higher prices.
- Keep alloy sections and cuttings separated — different alloys may have different value.
- For large volumes, request a trade rate or collection to reduce handling costs.
Need a live price? Visit our scrap prices page or contact us. Prices are indicative and subject to change — this guide was prepared using market information and our live yard rates as at 17 November 2025.
This article is guidance only and does not replace a live quote. Acceptance subject to yard policy and environmental regulations.
