Recycling aluminum cans is one of the most efficient ways to contribute to environmental sustainability while also making extra money. Whether you are an individual collector, a business, or a community group, understanding scrap aluminum can prices can help you maximize your returns.
This guide will cover current aluminum can prices per pound, factors affecting the market, best practices for selling aluminum cans, and tips to get the highest payouts.
Current Scrap Aluminum Can Prices Per Pound
The price of scrap aluminum cans fluctuates based on market demand, regional scrap yard policies, and economic factors. Below is an updated table showing the average aluminum can price per pound in different regions:
| Region | Price Per Pound (USD) | Price Per Kilogram (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| USA (National Average) | $0.50 – $0.70 | $1.10 – $1.54 |
| Canada | $0.45 – $0.65 | $0.99 – $1.43 |
| UK | £0.40 – £0.60 | £0.88 – £1.32 |
| Australia | AUD 0.80 – AUD 1.10 | AUD 1.76 – AUD 2.42 |
Note: Prices can vary significantly depending on local scrap yards, aluminum market trends, and bulk quantity negotiations.
Aluminum Cans Scrap Prices in the USA
The price of scrap aluminum cans in the USA varies depending on several factors, including market demand, location, and bulk quantity sold. Scrap yards and recycling centers determine their rates based on the London Metal Exchange (LME) aluminum prices, local operational costs, and regional supply chains.
Current Aluminum Can Scrap Prices in the USA
The table below shows the average aluminum can price per pound across different states in the USA:
| State/Region | Price Per Pound (USD) | Price Per Kilogram (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| National Average | $0.50 – $0.70 | $1.10 – $1.54 |
| California | $0.60 – $0.80 | $1.32 – $1.76 |
| Texas | $0.55 – $0.75 | $1.21 – $1.65 |
| Florida | $0.50 – $0.70 | $1.10 – $1.54 |
| New York | $0.45 – $0.65 | $0.99 – $1.43 |
| Midwest (Illinois, Ohio, Michigan) | $0.40 – $0.60 | $0.88 – $1.32 |
| Southern States (Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana) | $0.50 – $0.70 | $1.10 – $1.54 |
| Western States (Arizona, Nevada, Colorado) | $0.55 – $0.75 | $1.21 – $1.65 |
Note: Prices change frequently based on the global aluminum market, recycling demand, and energy costs. Checking with local scrap yards or recycling centers is the best way to get real-time pricing.
Best Places to Sell Scrap Aluminum Cans in the US
To maximize your earnings, consider selling aluminum cans at the following locations:
A. Local Scrap Yards & Recycling Centers
- Best option for selling in bulk.
- Prices vary daily, so calling ahead is recommended.
- Some yards offer better rates for larger quantities.
B. State Deposit Programs
- States like California, Michigan, and Oregon offer higher buy-back rates through bottle deposit programs.
- Cans must be returned uncrushed and in good condition.
C. Nationwide Recycling Chains
- Companies like Waste Management, Sims Metal Management, and Schnitzer Steel buy aluminum cans in bulk.
- Some offer pickup services for large quantities.
D. Fundraising & Community Programs
- Schools, charities, and nonprofit organizations collect cans for fundraising.
- Some recyclers partner with community groups and offer special rates.
Aluminum Cans Scrap Prices in Canada
Recycling aluminum cans in Canada is a profitable and environmentally friendly practice. The price of scrap aluminum cans varies based on province, recycling policies, and global aluminum market trends. Understanding these factors can help you maximize your earnings when selling aluminum cans for recycling.
Current Aluminum Can Scrap Prices in Canada
The following table shows the average aluminum can price per pound in Canada across different provinces:
| Province/Region | Price Per Pound (CAD) | Price Per Kilogram (CAD) | Deposit Refund Rate (if applicable) |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Average | $0.45 – $0.65 | $0.99 – $1.43 | Varies by province |
| Ontario | $0.40 – $0.60 | $0.88 – $1.32 | No official deposit on cans |
| British Columbia | $0.50 – $0.70 | $1.10 – $1.54 | $0.10 per can refund |
| Alberta | $0.50 – $0.70 | $1.10 – $1.54 | $0.10 – $0.25 per can refund |
| Quebec | $0.45 – $0.65 | $0.99 – $1.43 | No deposit on aluminum cans |
| Manitoba | $0.40 – $0.60 | $0.88 – $1.32 | No deposit on aluminum cans |
| Saskatchewan | $0.45 – $0.65 | $0.99 – $1.43 | $0.10 per can refund |
| Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI | $0.50 – $0.70 | $1.10 – $1.54 | $0.10 – $0.20 per can refund |
Note: Prices fluctuate based on scrap yard policies, global aluminum demand, and government regulations.
Best Places to Sell Scrap Aluminum Cans in Canada
To maximize profits when selling aluminum cans in Canada, consider these options:
A. Provincial Bottle & Can Deposit Return Programs
- British Columbia (Return-It Centers): Refund of $0.10 per aluminum can.
- Alberta (Bottle Depots): Refund of $0.10 for small cans, $0.25 for larger cans.
- Saskatchewan (SARCAN Recycling): Refund of $0.10 per aluminum can.
- Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI: Refund of $0.10–$0.20 per can, depending on size.
- Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba: No official deposit refund, but private recyclers pay per pound.
Tip: Deposit return centers guarantee a fixed refund, while scrap yards offer fluctuating prices based on aluminum demand.
B. Local Scrap Yards & Metal Recyclers
- Many scrap yards pay per pound or kilogram for aluminum cans.
- Urban areas often have higher scrap metal prices than rural locations.
- Some recyclers offer higher prices for pre-sorted, clean aluminum cans.
C. Charities & Fundraising Organizations
- Schools, churches, and nonprofits collect aluminum cans for fundraising.
- Some recyclers partner with charities and provide special rates.
D. Recycling Apps & Marketplaces
- Apps like iScrap App and Recycle Coach help find high-paying scrap yards.
- Online marketplaces like Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace sometimes list buyers offering better prices for bulk aluminum cans.
Factors Affecting Scrap Aluminum Can Prices
1. Global Market Demand for Aluminum
The automotive, construction, and packaging industries drive aluminum demand. When demand increases, scrap aluminum can prices rise accordingly.
2. Aluminum Recycling Costs & Energy Prices
Producing aluminum from recycled materials saves up to 95% of the energy needed for new aluminum production. However, high energy costs can still impact the recycling process, affecting prices.
3. Local vs. National Scrap Yard Pricing
Each scrap yard sets its own prices based on operational costs, demand, and bulk purchase policies. Some scrap yards offer higher rates for larger quantities of aluminum cans.
4. Seasonal Price Fluctuations
Scrap aluminum prices often increase in the summer months, when demand for aluminum beverage cans is highest. Prices may drop in winter, when fewer cans are being collected.
Where to Sell Aluminum Cans for the Best Price
Finding the right buyer is crucial for getting the best return on scrap aluminum cans. Here are the top places to sell aluminum cans:
1. Local Scrap Yards
- Compare prices at different yards before selling.
- Check if they accept crushed vs. uncrushed cans.
- Some offer higher prices for bulk deliveries.
2. Recycling Centers
- Many municipal recycling programs pay for aluminum cans.
- Check if they have minimum weight requirements.
3. Metal Recycling Companies
- Some companies specialize in bulk aluminum can recycling.
- They may offer contract-based pricing for large suppliers.
4. Community Collection Programs
- Schools and charities often collect aluminum cans for fundraising purposes.
- Some recycling centers partner with nonprofits and offer special rates.
Should You Crush Aluminum Cans Before Selling?
One common question among recyclers is whether crushing aluminum cans helps increase profits.
Pros of Crushing Aluminum Cans
- Saves space – More cans fit into storage and transport.
- Easier transportation – Reduces bulk for delivery.
Cons of Crushing Aluminum Cans
- Some scrap yards only accept uncrushed cans to verify the material type.
- Can affect price negotiations if scrap yards require sorting.
Tip: Call your local scrap yard before crushing to confirm their requirements.
How to Prepare Aluminum Cans for Recycling
To get the best price for scrap aluminum cans, follow these best practices:
- Remove any contaminants (plastic, food residue, or labels).
- Store in a dry place to prevent rust and contamination.
- Sort aluminum cans separately from other scrap metals.
- Weigh your cans before selling to estimate total earnings.
Maximizing Profit from Aluminum Can Recycling
If you want to increase earnings from aluminum can recycling, consider these strategies:
1. Collect in Bulk
- Scrap yards often pay higher rates for large quantities.
- Partner with businesses, schools, or charities to collect more cans.
2. Monitor Market Trends
- Sell aluminum cans when scrap metal prices peak.
- Check for price fluctuations using scrap metal market apps.
3. Negotiate with Scrap Yards
- If you bring in a large amount of aluminum cans, ask for a better rate.
- Some scrap yards offer loyalty programs for repeat sellers.
4. Sell to Specialty Buyers
- Some recycling businesses pay extra for sorted, clean aluminum.
- Look for export buyers who may offer higher rates.
Environmental Benefits of Recycling Aluminum Cans
Recycling aluminum cans helps reduce waste, conserve energy, and lower carbon emissions.
Saves Energy: Recycling aluminum uses 95% less energy than producing new aluminum.
Reduces Landfill Waste: Aluminum cans take 200–500 years to decompose in landfills.
=>Lowers Carbon Emissions: Recycling aluminum cuts down greenhouse gas emissions.
By recycling aluminum cans, you contribute to sustainability efforts and a cleaner environment.
FAQs on Scrap Aluminum Cans Price
1. How much is an aluminum can worth?
On average, a single aluminum can is worth $0.02–$0.04, depending on scrap prices.
2. Are aluminum can prices expected to rise?
Prices fluctuate based on global demand, supply chains, and recycling industry trends.
3. Where can I find the highest aluminum can prices?
Check local scrap yards, recycling centers, and metal recycling companies for the best rates.
4. Can I sell aluminum cans in bulk?
Yes! Many scrap yards offer higher prices for large quantities.
Conclusion
Understanding scrap aluminum can prices can help you make informed decisions when selling aluminum for recycling. By monitoring market trends, preparing cans properly, and choosing the best buyers, you can maximize your profits while contributing to sustainability.
Final Tip: Always check local scrap yard prices before selling, as rates can vary daily!
