What’s the Difference Between Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Scrap Prices?

If you’re new to scrap metal recycling or even a seasoned recycler, understanding the difference between ferrous and non-ferrous metals is key to maximising your payout. 

These two broad categories of metals behave very differently in the marketplace, with distinct prices, uses, and recycling processes.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• Typical price ranges in Australia
• What ferrous and non-ferrous metals are
• How their properties affect their scrap value
• Factors influencing prices for each metal type
• Tips to get the best return on your scrap

Contact Premier Metals today to sell your scrap metals at the best price at 08 6252 8500

Ferrous vs Non-Ferrous Scrap Prices in Australia

What Are Ferrous Metals?

Ferrous metals are metals that contain iron. They are typically magnetic and prone to rust when exposed to moisture. Common ferrous metals include:

• Steel
• Cast iron
• Wrought iron

Ferrous metals are widely used in construction, automotive manufacturing, and heavy machinery due to their strength and durability.

Characteristics of Ferrous Metals:

• Magnetic (usually)
• Prone to rust and corrosion
• Generally heavier and stronger
• Typically lower in price per kilogram compared to non-ferrous metals

What Are Non-Ferrous Metals?

Non-ferrous metals do not contain iron. They are usually more resistant to corrosion, lighter, and have different physical properties compared to ferrous metals. Common non-ferrous metals include:

• Copper
• Aluminium
• Brass
• Lead
• Zinc
• Nickel

These metals are crucial in electrical, aerospace, and manufacturing industries due to their conductivity, malleability, and resistance to rust.

Characteristics of Non-Ferrous Metals:

• Non-magnetic
• Corrosion-resistant
• Usually lighter in weight
• Higher market prices per kilogram

Why Do Non-Ferrous Metals Usually Pay More?

1. Higher Market Demand
   Non-ferrous metals are critical in advanced industries like electronics, renewable energy, and aerospace, pushing demand and prices higher.
2. Scarcity and Extraction Costs
   Non-ferrous metals are less abundant and more expensive to mine than iron, increasing their value.
3. Recycling Efficiency
   Non-ferrous metals retain their properties through multiple recycling cycles, making them highly valuable.

Factors Affecting Scrap Metal Prices

• Market Demand & Global Commodity Prices: Both ferrous and non-ferrous prices fluctuate based on supply, demand, and international market trends.
• Metal Purity and Condition: Clean, uncontaminated metals fetch better prices. Mixed or dirty scrap reduces value.
• Quantity & Sorting: Bulk and well-sorted metals often get premium prices.
• Location & Facility: Proximity to recycling facilities and local market conditions can impact payouts.

How to Maximise Your Scrap Metal Payout

• Separate ferrous from non-ferrous scrap to avoid value loss.
• Clean and sort your metals as much as possible.
• Stay informed on market prices for both categories.
• Partner with a reputable recycler like Premier Metals who offers competitive pricing and expert advice.

Why Choose Premier Metals?

At Premier Metals, we pride ourselves on:

• Transparent, up-to-date pricing for all scrap metals
• Licensed, high-capacity facilities across Australia
• Expert sorting, weighing, and grading services
• Convenient pick-up and drop-off options

Recycle smarter and earn more by choosing Premier Metals.

FAQs

What is the main difference between ferrous and non-ferrous metals?

Ferrous metals contain iron and are usually magnetic and prone to rust, while non-ferrous metals do not contain iron, are non-magnetic, and are more resistant to corrosion.

Why do non-ferrous metals generally fetch higher prices than ferrous metals?

Non-ferrous metals are scarcer, have higher demand in industries like electronics and renewable energy, and retain their quality through multiple recycling processes, making them more valuable.

Can I recycle mixed scrap containing both ferrous and non-ferrous metals?

While you can recycle mixed scrap, separating ferrous from non-ferrous metals before recycling usually results in a better payout because each metal type has different market values.

How often do scrap metal prices change in Australia?

Scrap metal prices fluctuate frequently—sometimes daily—depending on global commodity markets, demand, supply, and local recycling facility rates.

Contact Us Today

Understanding the difference between ferrous and non-ferrous scrap metals and their pricing can help you turn your scrap into serious cash. Non-ferrous metals usually pay significantly more, but ferrous metals still have value, especially in large quantities.

Contact Premier Metals today to get top dollar for your scrap metal — whether ferrous or non-ferrous.