By KN Traders · Published · Updated
How much is copper scrap worth per kg?
A copper scrap price depends on the material being offered. Clean copper wire, pipe with soldered joints and insulated cable are different buying grades. Comparing their headline rates without checking the grade can give a misleading estimate.
Use the KN TRADERS scrap rates page as a starting point, then confirm the applicable quote for your own lot. We review metal scrap enquiries from across India from our base in Pattambi, Kerala. The listed reference is not a guaranteed purchase price for every location.
Describe the copper you want to sell
| Material | Details to share with the buyer |
|---|---|
| Bare copper wire | Whether it is uncoated, clean and free of attachments |
| Copper pipe or tube | Soldered joints, paint, fittings and any other attached metals |
| Insulated cable | Cable type, thickness, insulation and estimated total weight |
| Mixed copper assemblies | Photos of the whole item and any separable non-copper parts |
Buyer specifications can differ. Agree on the grade being purchased before comparing quotes. A photograph can support an initial assessment, but it cannot confirm the complete contents of a mixed cable or machine.
Compare bare wire, copper pipe and insulated cable offers
For bare wire, ask which coatings or attachments are allowed within the quoted grade. For pipe, disclose soldered joints and fittings. For cable, describe the insulation and known conductor material rather than assuming every cable contains copper. Keep unknown material separate until assessed.
Use one written line per group: material description, accepted weight, rate unit and proposed deductions. A quote for clean bare wire cannot be used as a whole-lot price for mixed pipe and insulated cable.
Gross cable weight is not copper weight
A cable includes insulation and may contain other components. A quote for a kilogram of complete insulated cable is different from a quote for a kilogram of recovered copper.
Ask whether the buyer is quoting for the cable as supplied or assessing its recoverable copper content. Do not multiply the full cable weight by a bare-copper rate unless the buyer has explicitly agreed to that basis.
Prepare a clearer quotation request
- Keep bare wire, pipe and insulated cable in separate groups where practical.
- Share close-up photos and one photo showing the size of the whole lot.
- Give an estimated weight for each group and say whether it is weighed or approximate.
- Include your city, pincode and loading access.
- Explain any coatings, attachments or mixed material you already know about.
Do not burn insulation to recover copper. Discuss any dismantling or stripping with the buyer first, and leave electrical equipment safely isolated by a competent person.
Compare what you will actually receive
Check the accepted net weight, grade, buying rate, any deductions, loading and transport costs, and payment timing. A higher headline price can produce a lower net amount when different charges or weight assumptions apply.
For a mixed factory lot, use our industrial scrap sale checklist. Keep aluminium scrap and brass fittings separate from copper when requesting an assessment.
Worked example: compare net proceeds on the same basis
The figures below are arithmetic examples only, not KN TRADERS buying rates or a transport tariff. Assume both offers accept the same 100 kg of the same material:
| Example offer | Material amount | Agreed loading and transport charges | Amount after those charges |
|---|---|---|---|
| A: 100 kg at ₹100/kg | ₹10,000 | ₹800 | ₹9,200 |
| B: 100 kg at ₹97/kg | ₹9,700 | ₹200 | ₹9,500 |
Offer B leaves ₹300 more in this example despite its lower rate. If accepted weight, grade, taxes or deductions differ, reconcile those before comparing the offers. Confirm actual rates and all applicable terms with the buyer; these figures exclude taxes and other deductions.
For business quantities, request a bulk industrial scrap assessment. Share each material group and its estimated weight separately.
Copper scrap questions
Is the copper rate in Kerala the same across India?
No. The buyer, grade, quantity and logistics can change the offered rate. Compare quotes for the same lot and delivery terms.
Will removing insulation always increase my return?
Not necessarily. Consider the buyer's grading requirements, recovered weight, labour and handling costs before deciding.
How do I request a copper scrap quote?
Contact KN TRADERS with your photos, material description, estimated weight and location, or send a scrap sale enquiry. Acceptance, collection and payment terms are confirmed with the team.