Scrap Copper Prices South Africa 2026 – Complete Price Guide
Scrap Copper Prices South Africa 2026
Scrap Copper Prices South Africa 2026 continue to reflect strong global demand combined with South Africa’s expanding infrastructure and renewable energy projects. Copper remains the highest-value commonly traded scrap metal nationwide, and understanding the different grades is essential for maximising returns.
Current Scrap Copper Price Ranges (2026)
Copper Grade
Typical Price (ZAR per kg)
Description
Bare Bright Copper
R170 – R190
Clean, uncoated, solid wire (highest value)
Millberry Copper
R155 – R175
Clean copper wire without insulation
Burnt Copper
R135 – R160
Previously insulated wire burned or heat stripped
Mixed Copper
R120 – R150
Pipes, tubing, and fittings
Copper Radiators
R110 – R145
Aircon & vehicle radiators (non-ferrous mix)
Provincial Copper Pricing Overview
Province
Average Bare Bright (ZAR/kg)
Gauteng
R175 – R190
Western Cape
R170 – R185
KwaZulu-Natal
R168 – R185
Eastern Cape
R165 – R180
Free State
R160 – R175
Prices vary daily based on global copper markets and local yard competition.
2026 Copper Price Trend Chart
Scrap Copper Price Calculator
Burnt vs Stripped Copper – Value Comparison
Type
Price Difference
Fully Stripped Bare Bright
Up to 20% higher payout
Burnt Wire
Discounted due to contamination risk
Insulated Cable (unprocessed)
Paid by recovery rate
Properly stripping copper wire rather than burning it generally results in higher payouts and complies with environmental best practice.
Bulk Industrial Copper Payout Estimator
Top Copper Scrap Yards – Major Cities
Factors Influencing Scrap Copper Prices South Africa 2026
Global copper futures market movements
Renewable energy and grid infrastructure projects
Local supply of recovered scrap
Exchange rate fluctuations (USD/ZAR)
Export policy and domestic mill demand
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do copper scrap prices change?
Prices can change daily depending on global market conditions.
Is stripped copper worth more?
Yes. Fully clean, uncoated bare bright copper attracts the highest rates.
Do bulk sellers get better prices?
Yes. Industrial quantities can attract 2–5% premiums.