The most recently available market data show that the scrap industry in the U.S is currently a $90-billion industry. Up from $54-billion in 2009. After a rocky 2016, the scrap metal market rebounded solidly in 2017. As we enter 2018, lets take a look at the most common metals in scrap.

Steel

Steel is one of the most commonly scraped materials. The World Steel Association reported that in 2016 there was a 2.6% increase in demand for steel, this number was followed up by a 3.0% increase in demand in 2017. According to their most recent report, all signs point toward the global demand for steel to increase in 2018.

Copper

The copper market is a great indicator of the global economy. In 2017 the U.S economy saw a great activity, with stock markets reaching all time high. As copper is a great indicator of the economy, and vise versa, experts in the scrap metal work predict that the demand for copper will soar in 2018.

Zinc
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As with our previous two metals, Zinc had a great 2017 in terms of demand. In fact, there was supply gap for zinc and scrap prices reflected that. Prices for the scrap metal were up 36% year over year at some parts in 2017. Experts believe this demand will continue to grow in 2018.
Looking to make some extra cash in 2018? Are you a business looking to get rid of unwanted scrap for free?