Is scrap copper more expensive in London than the UK average?

London copper prices are currently around 5% above the UK national average. Local demand and competition between yards influence regional rates.

Can a scrap yard in London pay me cash for copper?

No. Under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013, all UK scrap yards — including those in London — must pay by bank transfer or cheque. Cash payments for scrap metal are illegal.

Copper Prices in London

Current local market rate for scrap copper in London. Compared with the UK national average.

London Local Rate

£4.41–£5.25/kg

≈ £4,410–£5,250/tonne

Last updated: 25/03/2026

UK National Average

£4.20–£5.00/kg

≈ £4,200–£5,000/tonne

London vs UK Average

London scrap yards are currently paying £4.41–£5.25/kg for copper, which is 5% above the UK national average of £4.20–£5.00/kg. Local competition, transport costs, and yard capacity all contribute to regional price differences.

Grades of Copper

Bare Bright Copper

The top grade of copper scrap in the UK. Must be clean, uncoated, unalloyed copper wire with no insulation, no solder, no paint, and a minimum diameter of 1mm.

£4.80–£5.00/kg

≈ £4,800–£5,000/tonne

Copper #1 (Millberry)

Copper #1 covers clean copper pipe, bus bars, and sheet copper with no significant contamination. Must be free of solder joints, excessive corrosion, and paint.

£4.40–£4.70/kg

≈ £4,400–£4,700/tonne

Copper #2

Copper #2 includes copper with small amounts of solder, light paint, chrome fittings, or oxidation that prevent it from reaching #1 grade.

£4.00–£4.30/kg

≈ £4,000–£4,300/tonne

Copper Tanks & Cylinders

Old hot water cylinders and storage tanks. Remove the foam insulation jacket before taking to the yard.

£3.80–£4.20/kg

≈ £3,800–£4,200/tonne

Insulated Wire Grade 1

Thick single-core insulated wire such as mains wiring. The price reflects the estimated copper recovery once the insulation is stripped.

£2.20–£2.80/kg

≈ £2,200–£2,800/tonne

Insulated Wire Grade 2

Mixed or thin insulated copper wire including multicore cable, alarm wire, telephone wire, and coaxial cable.

£1.20–£1.80/kg

≈ £1,200–£1,800/tonne

Scrap Yards in London

London Metal Recycling Ltd

1 Metal Way, Bermondsey

Frequently Asked Questions – Copper in London

How much is scrap copper worth in London?▾

Scrap copper in London currently fetches £4.41–£5.25/kg. This is the local market rate based on prices reported by London scrap yards.

Is scrap copper priced differently in London vs the rest of the UK?▾

Yes — London rates are currently around 5% higher than the UK national average. Regional differences are influenced by local yard competition, transport costs, and market demand.

Can a London scrap yard pay me cash for copper?▾

No. Under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013, all scrap dealers in the UK — including those in London — are legally required to pay by bank transfer or cheque. Never accept a cash offer.

All prices in London All Copper prices UK-wide