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.
Key Takeaways / TL;DR
Ferrous metals contain iron, display magnetic properties, and are usually priced per metric tonne for bulk loads.
Non-ferrous metals (such as copper, brass, and aluminium) do not rust, retain their chemical integrity, and are priced higher per kilogram.
Scrap prices in Perth are heavily influenced by global demand on the London Metal Exchange (LME).
In Western Australia, physical cash payments for scrap are strictly prohibited by law; legitimate recyclers pay via instant EFT or Osko.
Contact Premier Metals today to sell your scrap metals at the best price at 08 6252 8500
In Western Australia, the scrap metal market is largely driven by our booming mining, construction, and oil & gas sectors. From heavy transport hubs in Welshpool to manufacturing zones in Canning Vale and Kwinana, industrial operations constantly generate diverse metal waste.
Because Perth has such a high concentration of engineering workshops, demolition contractors, and electrical cablers, local recyclers process massive volumes of both ferrous and non-ferrous materials. The prices offered by Perth scrap yards directly reflect the current supply and demand of these vital local industries, as well as the capacity of recyclers to efficiently process and export the materials.
| Metal Type | Example Metals | Typical Price Range (AUD/kg) | Notes |
| Ferrous Metals | Steel, Cast Iron | $0.10 – $0.30 | Lower value due to abundance and rust risk |
| Non-Ferrous Metals | Copper, Aluminium, Brass | $1.50 – $10+ | Higher prices due to demand, rarity, and properties |
Ferrous metals are metals that contain iron. They are typically magnetic and prone to rust when exposed to moisture. Common ferrous metals include:
Ferrous metals are widely used in construction, automotive manufacturing, and heavy machinery due to their strength and durability.
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:
These metals are crucial in electrical, aerospace, and manufacturing industries due to their conductivity, malleability, and resistance to rust.
At Premier Metals, we pride ourselves on:
Recycle smarter and earn more by choosing Premier Metals.
Separate Your Metals: Always separate ferrous from non-ferrous scrap to avoid having your high-value copper or brass downgraded to a mixed-load price.
Clean the Material: Stripping insulation off copper wire or removing steel screws from aluminium frames will instantly upgrade your material to a higher payout tier.
Monitor the LME: Keep an eye on global commodity indices to sell your bulk non-ferrous loads when the market peaks.
Leverage Free Onsite Collection: For bulk ferrous loads (typically over 1,500 kg), reputable Perth recyclers will supply hook bins and transport for free, saving you haulage and labor costs.
When seeking the best scrap metal prices, it is crucial to use a licensed buyer. Western Australia enforces strict scrap metal and second-hand dealer regulations to maintain transparency across recycling supply chains.
Under WA legislation, licensed scrap buyers must inspect and record a valid government-issued photo ID for every transaction. Furthermore, paying physical “cash in hand” for scrap metal is strictly prohibited.
At Premier Metals, we ensure 100% compliance by processing all payouts via instant Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT / Osko) directly into your Australian bank account, providing you with a secure, documented accounting trail. Our facility at 87 Kelvin Road, Maddington utilizes trade-certified public weighbridges and digital hanging scales tested under National Measurement Institute (NMI) guidelines to guarantee you are paid for every exact kilogram.
Contact Premier Metals today at 08 6252 8500 to get top dollar for your scrap metal—whether ferrous or non-ferrous.
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.
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.
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.
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.