What is Scrap?
Complete guide to scrap materials, their types, value, and how to sell them in India.
Definition of Scrap
Scrap refers to any material that has been used and is no longer needed in its current form, but still has value as a raw material for recycling or reprocessing. In India, scrap includes old metal items, discarded electronics, waste paper, plastic, and industrial by-products.
Unlike garbage (which has no value), scrap is a valuable commodity. India's scrap industry is worth over ₹5 lakh crore and employs millions. Every piece of iron, copper wire, or old AC you sell gets recycled into new products - saving energy and natural resources.
Types of Scrap in India
Metal Scrap
₹22–530/kg
- Iron & Steel
- Copper
- Aluminium
- Brass
- Zinc
- Lead
Plastic Scrap
₹8–22/kg
- PET Bottles
- HDPE
- PVC Pipes
- PP
- Mixed Plastic
Paper Scrap
₹10–20/kg
- Newspaper
- Cardboard
- Office Paper
- Books
E-Waste
₹30–500/pc
- Old Phones
- Laptops
- TVs
- Wires
- Batteries
Appliances
₹300–6,500/pc
- AC
- Fridge
- Washing Machine
- Geyser
- Fan
Industrial
Varies
- Factory Waste
- Machine Parts
- Rubber
- Glass
Why is Scrap Valuable?
1. Resource Conservation: Recycling scrap metal uses 60–95% less energy than mining virgin ore. 1 tonne of recycled steel saves 1.1 tonnes of iron ore, 630kg of coal, and 55kg of limestone.
2. Industrial Demand: Steel plants, copper refineries, and plastic recyclers constantly need raw material. Scrap is cheaper and more sustainable than mining, creating constant demand.
3. Global Market: Scrap prices are linked to international commodity markets (LME). Copper scrap in India follows global copper prices - which is why rates change daily.
4. Government Support: India's government actively promotes recycling through the E-Waste Management Rules 2022 and Metal Recycling Policy, making scrap a regulated and supported industry.
Ready to Sell Your Scrap?
SCRAPYARD buys all types of scrap at live market rates. Free pickup across 30+ cities.