Which Scrap Metals Pay the Most in 2026?
Not all scrap metal is created equal. If you’re looking to make the most money from your scrap, it helps to know which metals are worth the most — and why. Whether you’re a homeowner, contractor, or industrial scrapper in Ottawa, understanding metal values can help you sort smarter and earn more when you sell to a buyer like CFT Group.
Here’s a breakdown of the most valuable scrap metals in 2026 and where to find them.
1. Copper — The King of Scrap Metals
Copper consistently ranks as the most valuable common scrap metal. Its excellent electrical conductivity makes it essential for wiring, electronics, motors, and renewable energy systems. In 2026, copper demand remains exceptionally strong thanks to the global push toward electrification, electric vehicles, solar panels, and wind turbines — all of which require significant amounts of copper.
Where to find scrap copper: Electrical wiring (especially #1 bare bright copper wire), plumbing pipes and fittings, air conditioning and refrigeration tubing, electric motors, transformers, and circuit boards.
Tip: Strip insulation from copper wire to get the highest grade (#1 bare bright). Insulated wire pays significantly less because the buyer has to process it further.
2. Brass — Consistently High Value
Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, and its copper content gives it strong scrap value. Brass is widely used in plumbing, valves, ammunition casings, musical instruments, and decorative hardware. It holds its value well because the recycling process is efficient and demand from plumbing and industrial manufacturers remains steady.
Where to find scrap brass: Plumbing valves and fittings, door handles and hinges, faucets and fixtures, radiator cores (yellow brass), and keys.
3. Aluminum — Lightweight, Widely Available, and Valuable
Aluminum is the most commonly recycled metal in the world, and for good reason. It’s infinitely recyclable without losing quality, and recycling aluminum uses 95% less energy than producing it from raw ore. While aluminum pays less per pound than copper or brass, it’s often available in larger quantities, making it a significant earner for scrappers who collect it consistently.
Where to find scrap aluminum: Beverage cans, window frames and siding, aluminum cookware, car wheels and engine components, and lawn furniture.
Tip: Clean, sorted aluminum (cans separated from extrusions separated from cast) commands better prices than mixed loads.
4. Stainless Steel — Grade Matters
Stainless steel’s value depends heavily on its grade, specifically its nickel and chromium content. Grade 304 (the most common stainless used in kitchen appliances and sinks) pays well, while grade 316 (used in marine and medical equipment) commands a premium due to its higher nickel content. Lower-grade stainless or magnetic stainless steel pays less.
Where to find scrap stainless steel: Kitchen sinks and countertops, appliances (dishwashers, refrigerators), restaurant equipment, medical instruments, and industrial tanks and pipes.
5. Nickel — Small Quantities, Big Value
Pure nickel scrap is relatively rare outside of industrial settings, but when you find it, it commands excellent prices. Nickel is critical for battery production (especially EV batteries), stainless steel manufacturing, and aerospace applications. In 2026, nickel demand is elevated by the electric vehicle revolution.
Where to find scrap nickel: Nickel-plated items, certain coins, specialized industrial components, and nickel-cadmium batteries.
6. Lead — Steady Demand from Battery Recycling
Lead isn’t worth as much per pound as copper or brass, but lead-acid batteries are one of the most consistently recycled products in the world. The lead content in car batteries, boat batteries, and industrial backup batteries maintains steady value. Handling lead requires caution due to its toxicity — always sell to a licensed recycler like CFT Group.
7. Steel and Iron — Volume Is King
Steel and iron are the least valuable metals per pound, but they’re also the most abundant. Most scrap loads contain primarily steel and iron. While individual items might not seem worth much, a truckload of structural steel, rebar, or auto bodies adds up quickly. Steel prices in 2026 have been supported by continued infrastructure investment across North America.
How to Maximize Your Scrap Metal Earnings
The key to getting the most from your scrap metal is simple: sort, clean, and sell to a fair buyer. Separate metals by type (never mix copper with steel). Remove non-metal attachments like plastic, rubber, and wood. Accumulate material to bring larger loads. Know what you have before you arrive at the yard. And always sell to a reputable, licensed buyer who uses certified scales and offers transparent pricing.
CFT Group buys all types of scrap metal at four locations across the Ottawa region — Ottawa (6682 Bank St), Stittsville (7628 Flewellyn Rd), Aylmer (601 Chemin Klock), and Pembroke. Call 1-800-263-2344 for today’s prices. We also offer free scrap car removal, vehicle recycling, and bin rental services.