Copper Prices Surge: What It Means for Scrappers
Global copper demand continues to rise with the EV revolution. Here's how Jackson-area scrappers can maximize their returns.
Mike Thompson
Owner, We Buy Your Junk INC
The electric vehicle revolution is reshaping the scrap metal industry, and copper is at the center of it all. With prices hitting multi-year highs, now is the time to understand what’s driving the market and how you can capitalize on it.
Why Copper Prices Are Rising
Electric vehicles require significantly more copper than traditional combustion engines—up to four times as much. As automakers ramp up EV production to meet 2030 emissions targets, demand for copper has skyrocketed.
Add to this the global push for renewable energy infrastructure, which also relies heavily on copper for wiring and components, and you have a perfect storm for price increases.
“We’re seeing copper prices that we haven’t seen in over a decade. For scrappers in Jackson County, this is a golden opportunity.” — Mike Thompson, Owner
Current Market Rates
As of January 2026, here’s what we’re paying for copper at We Buy Your Junk:
- #1 Bare Bright Copper: $3.85 - $4.10/lb
- #1 Copper Tubing: $3.60 - $3.85/lb
- #2 Copper: $3.40 - $3.60/lb
- Insulated Copper Wire: $1.80 - $2.50/lb (depending on recovery rate)
How to Maximize Your Returns
If you’re sitting on copper scrap, here are some tips to get the best price:
1. Clean Your Copper
The cleaner your copper, the higher the grade. Remove any insulation, solder, or attachments. #1 Bare Bright commands the highest prices and should be free of any coatings or oxidation.
2. Sort by Grade
Don’t mix your copper grades. Keep #1 and #2 copper separate. Mixed loads get priced at the lowest grade present.
3. Time Your Sale
Copper prices fluctuate daily based on the COMEX market. We update our prices every morning. If you have flexibility, watch for price spikes—they often occur mid-week.
4. Bring Volume
Larger loads often qualify for premium pricing. If you’re a contractor or doing a big cleanout, call ahead and we can discuss volume rates.
Looking Ahead
Industry analysts expect copper demand to continue rising through 2030 as the EV transition accelerates. While short-term volatility is always possible, the long-term trend favors sellers.
At We Buy Your Junk, we’re committed to offering competitive, transparent pricing. Stop by our yard or give us a call to get a quote on your copper scrap.