By KN TRADERS · Published · Updated
What affects the iron or steel scrap price per kg?
The quote depends on what the lot contains. Mild steel offcuts, cast iron components and stainless steel assemblies can require different assessment. Thickness, condition, attachments, quantity and removal costs also matter.
Use the KN TRADERS scrap rates page to check the listed material and unit. Then share your lot details for a current quote. A reference buying rate does not guarantee the same price at every location in India.
Describe the material accurately
| Material | Information to include |
|---|---|
| Mild steel and structural steel | Offcuts, sections, sheets or fabricated items; size and approximate weight |
| Cast iron | Type of component, attached parts and known condition |
| Stainless steel | Known grade or markings, original use and mixed components |
| Mixed machinery | Whole-item photos, dimensions and any non-metal contents |
Do not combine all of these under one assumed iron rate. If you do not know the grade, say so and arrange an assessment. A magnet test alone cannot establish a stainless steel grade or a complete alloy specification.
Mild steel offcuts and machinery need different quote details
For fabrication offcuts, describe whether the lot contains sheets, sections or mixed pieces, and include dimensions. For machinery, list known components and ask whether the quote covers the complete assembly or separately assessed metals. Do not infer a machinery lot's accepted steel weight from its total weight alone.
Ask the buyer to name the material category on the quotation. Stainless steel of an unconfirmed grade should not be assigned a particular alloy price just from a photograph or a magnet test.
Compare per-kg and per-tonne offers
One metric tonne equals 1,000 kg. To compare a per-tonne price with a per-kg price, divide it by 1,000. The material grade and other terms must still match.
Ask whether the quote applies to accepted net material weight or a complete lot. A machinery weight can include motors, attachments, fluids and other contents that need separate consideration.
Account for loading and transport
Bulky steel and heavy machinery may require lifting equipment, cutting or dismantling before removal. Do not assume these costs are included in a quoted rate.
Send photos of access routes and the proposed loading area. State any restrictions on vehicle access, item dimensions and permitted working hours. Confirm who will arrange the work before making a sale.
A practical quotation checklist
- Material type and known grade, with close-up and whole-lot photos.
- Estimated quantity, identifying whether the weight is measured or approximate.
- City, pincode, loading access and item dimensions.
- Rate unit, weighing method and treatment of attachments or deductions.
- Loading, transport and payment arrangements agreed with the buyer.
For a factory or demolition-related lot, use the industrial scrap sale checklist. Keep copper cable and aluminium parts identifiable instead of assuming one price for every metal.
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.
Iron and steel scrap questions
What is the price of 1 kg of iron scrap today?
Check the listed reference for your material, then confirm a current buying quote. Grade, location and collection costs can change the applicable amount.
Is stainless steel valued like mild steel?
Do not assume so. Identify the material and known grade separately and ask the buyer to assess it.
Can I enquire from outside Kerala?
Yes. KN TRADERS welcomes enquiries from across India. Acceptance and transport availability depend on the lot and location.
Contact KN TRADERS to discuss your iron or steel scrap, or send an enquiry with your lot details.