Insulated Copper Wire Scrap Price: What You Need to Know

insulated copper wire scrap price

Quick Answer: How Much Is Insulated Copper Wire Scrap Worth?

The price of insulated copper wire scrap typically ranges from $0.50 to $2.00 per pound, depending on the copper content, insulation type, and market conditions. Higher-grade wire with thicker copper cores and minimal insulation yields higher prices. For example, #1 insulated copper wire fetches more than #2 insulated wire due to purity and ease of processing.

To get the best return when recycling, understanding what affects the insulated copper wire scrap price is essential—read on to learn how to maximize your scrap value.

Types of Insulated Copper Wire and Their Values

Scrap yards categorize copper wire into various grades. Here are the most common:

1. #1 Insulated Copper Wire

• Contains 70–90% copper by weight

• Usually solid core or thick stranded wire

• Easy to strip

• Typical price: $1.80–$2.00/lb

2. #2 Insulated Copper Wire

• Contains 50–69% copper by weight

• Includes thinner wires and multi-stranded cords

• Often from appliances or extension cords

• Typical price: $1.20–$1.70/lb

3. Communication Wire (Cat5, Cat6, etc.)

• Low copper content (~30–50%)

• Common in ethernet and telephone cables

• More labor-intensive to process

• Typical price: $0.50–$1.00/lb

4. Romex or NM-B Cable

• Used in residential wiring

• Copper percentage varies (often 60–75%)

• Can yield higher prices if stripped

• Typical price: $1.30–$1.80/lb (unstripped)

Factors That Affect Insulated Copper Wire Scrap Price

1. Copper Market Price

Scrap copper prices follow the global commodities market. If copper futures are trading high, scrap prices increase. Track COMEX copper prices for market trends.

2. Grade and Purity

Clean, high-purity wire gets better rates. Dirty or mixed-metal wire is downgraded.

3. Insulation Type and Thickness

Thick insulation reduces copper yield per pound. Removing insulation (manually or with a wire stripper) can increase your payout significantly.

4. Location and Local Demand

Scrap prices vary regionally due to supply/demand, processing capabilities, and transport costs. Urban scrapyards often pay more than rural ones.

5. Quantity Sold

Bulk sales usually earn better per-pound rates. Some yards offer premium prices for over 100 lbs of sorted wire.

How to Get the Best Price for Insulated Copper Wire Scrap

• Separate by grade: Group wire types before visiting a scrapyard.

• Strip insulation: Use a wire stripper or razor knife for thick cables.

• Check multiple scrap yards: Rates vary—call ahead.

• Watch the market: Sell when copper prices peak.

• Clean your wire: Remove excess tape, connectors, or steel cores.

Should You Strip the Wire?

Stripping can boost value—but it depends on the wire type and labor involved.

Where to Sell Insulated Copper Wire Scrap

You can sell scrap wire at:

• Local scrapyards: Fastest option, cash payments

• Metal recyclers: May require sorting or bulk minimum

• Online marketplaces: For bulk quantities, check industrial resellers

Current Price Trends

As of mid-2025, insulated copper wire scrap prices remain strong due to:

• Continued global copper demand

• Supply constraints from mining regions

• Rise in EVs and renewable energy systems

Expect fluctuations, but prices are generally favorable for sellers.

Buying Copper Wire Instead?

If you're looking to purchase high-quality copper wire for electrical applications, visit TOT Wire & Cable — your source for reliable, competitively priced wire solutions. We offer a wide selection of THHN, XHHW, welding cables, and more—all backed by expert support and fast delivery.

Conclusion

Understanding the insulated copper wire scrap price helps you make informed decisions when recycling. From wire type and market trends to stripping techniques, many factors influence the value of your scrap. By preparing your wire properly and staying updated on copper prices, you can maximize your returns.

Whether you’re scrapping wire or purchasing new cables for your next project, knowing the copper wire market gives you a serious edge.