If you’re searching for can scrap price, you’re likely trying to understand how much aluminium cans are worth when recycled in Australia. Whether it’s soft drink cans, beer cans, or aluminium drink containers, the scrap value depends on market aluminium prices, recycling programs, and weight. Many people underestimate how much small amounts of cans can add up over time, especially when sold in bulk or through container deposit schemes.
This guide explains current can scrap prices in Australia, how pricing is calculated, where to sell cans for cash, and how to maximise returns from aluminium recycling in Perth and across Australia.
What Is the Scrap Price of Aluminium Cans?
Aluminium cans are one of the most commonly recycled scrap materials, but their price is relatively low per unit weight.
Typical scrap value depends on:
- Aluminium market price
- Cleanliness of cans (crushed or contaminated)
- Bulk quantity
- Recycling method (scrap yard vs deposit scheme)
Average can scrap price in Australia (2026 estimate)
| Source | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Scrap yard aluminium cans | $0.80 – $2.00 per kg |
| Clean, sorted cans (bulk) | $1.50 – $2.50 per kg |
| Container Deposit Scheme | $0.10 per can |
So, scrap yards pay by weight, while deposit schemes pay per item.
How Can Scrap Value Is Calculated
The value of cans is mainly based on aluminium weight.
Basic formula:
Aluminium weight × market rate per kg = scrap value
Key influencing factors:
- Clean aluminium (no liquids or contamination)
- Crushing reduces volume but not weight
- Mixed metals reduce price
- Bulk quantities get better rates
Aluminium is valuable globally, but thin cans have low individual weight, which keeps per-unit earnings small unless collected in bulk.
Where to Sell Scrap Cans in Perth
You have three main options depending on how much effort and return you want.
Scrap metal yards (bulk selling option)
Scrap yards accept aluminium cans by weight.
Pros:
- Bulk payouts
- No limits on quantity
- Easy drop-off
Cons:
- Low per kg price
Container Deposit Scheme (best per-can value)
Australia’s refund schemes pay per eligible container.
Pros:
- $0.10 per can fixed return
- Easy return points across WA
- Good for households and small collectors
Cons:
- Must be sorted and eligible containers only
Recycling centers and collectors
Some recycling depots and private collectors accept bulk aluminum.
Pros:
- Convenient drop-off
- Sometimes better bulk rates
Cons:
- Prices vary widely
Can Scrap Price vs Deposit Scheme: Which Pays More?
The choice depends on volume.
- Small quantities → Deposit scheme wins
- Large industrial quantities → Scrap yards may be better
- Mixed recycling → Deposit scheme still more predictable
Example:
- 100 cans = $10 via deposit scheme
- Same cans (~1.5 kg aluminium) = ~$2–$3 at scrap yard
How to Increase Your Can Scrap Value
To maximise returns:
- Keep cans clean and dry
- Separate aluminium from steel or plastic
- Store in bulk before selling
- Use deposit return bins for small quantities
- Avoid contamination (food or liquid residue lowers value)
Small improvements in sorting can significantly improve total payout.
Is Scrap Aluminium Worth Collecting?
Yes but only at scale.
Best scenarios:
- Schools or community collection drives
- Construction or event waste collection
- Long-term household collection
Not ideal for:
- Small daily household amounts sold to scrap yards only
FAQs
What is the current scrap price for cans in Australia?
Scrap aluminium cans typically pay between $0.80 and $2.50 per kg depending on cleanliness and market conditions. Container deposit schemes offer $0.10 per can regardless of weight.
Is it better to scrap cans or use deposit scheme?
For small quantities, deposit schemes are far more profitable. For large bulk quantities, scrap yards may be more practical, but per-unit value is usually lower than deposit refunds.
How many cans make 1 kg of aluminium?
On average, it takes around 30–40 aluminium cans to make 1 kilogram depending on size and thickness.
Can I sell crushed cans?
Yes. Crushing cans does not reduce weight, only volume. However, some buyers prefer uncrushed cans for easier processing.
Conclusion
Understanding can scrap price helps you decide whether to recycle through scrap yards or use deposit schemes. While aluminium cans don’t have high individual value, bulk collection can generate consistent returns over time. In most cases, deposit refund systems provide the best payout for small quantities, while scrap yards are more suitable for bulk recycling.
To improve returns, always separate, clean, and collect cans in volume before selling.