If you’re a plumber, renovator, or tradesperson working across Sydney, chances are you’re regularly pulling out old copper pipes from bathrooms, kitchens, and hot water systems. Most of that copper ends up in the skip, but it shouldn’t.
Scrap copper is cash, and in today’s market, it’s worth more than you might think. By selling your old copper pipe to a local scrap metal dealer, you can turn demolition waste into a steady side income. And when handled right, it could mean hundreds or even thousands of dollars a year back in your pocket.
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to prepare, sort, and sell your copper pipe scrap in Sydney, so you get the best possible price from trusted scrap metal dealers.
Why Copper Pipe Scrap is Valuable
Copper is one of the most sought-after non-ferrous metals in the world and Sydney’s scrap yards pay good money for it. It’s used in plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and countless industries. The best part? It can be re-used and re-smelted without losing quality and dealers are always buying.
As of October 2025, Sydney scrap copper prices are generally around:
| Type of Copper | Price Range (AUD per kg) |
| Bare Bright / #1 Copper | $11.50 – $13.00 |
| #1 Copper Tubing | $11.00 – $12.50 |
| #2 Copper / Mixed Tubing | $9.00 – $10.50 |
| Copper with Brass / Fittings | $7.50 – $9.00 |
???? Note: Prices vary daily based on market demand. Always call ahead to your local dealer for today’s rates.
Know Your Copper: Grades That Affect the Price
To get the top end of those prices, you need to understand how dealers grade your copper:
#1 Copper / Bare Bright
- Clean, shiny copper pipe or wire with no solder, fittings, paint, or corrosion
- Must be stripped or sanded clean
- Highest price per kilo
#1 Copper Tubing
- Clean copper tubing without attachments
- May be slightly tarnished but free of heavy corrosion or fittings
#2 Copper
- Pipes with solder joints, paint, or light corrosion
- Often includes copper with fittings still attached
Copper with Brass / Mixed Metals
- Copper pipe with brass or steel fittings
- May be downgraded unless separated
The cleaner the copper, the higher the payout.
How to Prepare Copper Pipe Scrap for Maximum Value
Here’s how Sydney tradies can prep copper scrap properly before heading to the yard:
1. Remove All Fittings
Cut off brass elbows, T-joints, and taps. Mixed metal drops the value, even if it’s only a small amount. Dealers pay more for clean, pure copper, so removing fittings helps you get a better grade. Use a grinder or pipe cutter to make the job easier. Even 5–10 minutes of extra work can mean a noticeable price difference.
2. Strip or Sand for Bare Bright
For bare copper pipe or wiring, remove any coatings or oxidation. A wire wheel or sanding pad can help restore the shine. Clean, shiny copper is classified as Bare Bright, which gets the highest price. If the pipe is fairly new, a light buff may be all it needs. Focus on larger sections first for the best return on your time.
3. Separate by Grade
Don’t mix your clean copper with painted or dirty pipe. Keep #1 and #2 grades in separate buckets or tubs. Mixed loads usually get paid at the lower rate. Use labels or colour-coded bins to keep it simple. The cleaner and more organised your scrap is, the better the dealer will treat your load.
4. Bundle or Cut Into Manageable Lengths
Some yards prefer shorter pieces. Cut down longer pipe to around 1-metre lengths if possible, it makes transport and weighing easier. Bundling also keeps your load neat and easier to handle. Tie with straps or heavy-duty tape. Neat bundles can speed up drop-off and sometimes even earn you quicker service.
5. Weigh It Before You Go
Having a rough idea of weight helps when negotiating. Even bathroom scales can give a ballpark figure. Just weigh yourself, then weigh again while holding the scrap. Knowing your load weight gives you more confidence and helps avoid being underpaid. It also helps you plan how much cash to expect.
Why Sell to a Scrap Metal Dealer (Not a Middleman)
In Sydney, there are plenty of options for getting rid of scrap but not all are equal.
Scrap metal dealers that specialise in non-ferrous metals (like copper, brass, and aluminium) will pay the highest prices and offer:
- ✅ Certified scales and fair weigh-ins
- ✅ Transparent pricing based on daily LME rates
- ✅ Same-day payment, often via EFT or cash
- ✅ Better rates for bulk or clean loads
- ✅ Relationships that pay off over time
Avoid selling to middlemen or dodgy collectors who offer cash on the spot without a proper weigh-in. It’s easy money but you’re leaving big value on the table.
Pro Tips for Sydney Plumbers and Renovators
- Set Up a Scrap Bin On Every Job: Train your team to toss copper pipes into a designated bin, not the general waste skip.
- Use Local Dealers in Your Area: Sydney has reputable scrap dealers in areas like Wetherill Park, Auburn, Blacktown, Smithfield, and Revesby. Shop around and compare prices.
- Photograph Larger Loads: If you’re dropping off 100kg+ at a yard, take photos before and after weighing, it helps with disputes and record keeping.
- Call Ahead for Prices: Ask for their price per kilo for #1 and #2 copper. If they dodge the question or give a vague answer, consider going elsewhere.
- Sell in Bulk When Possible: Larger loads can attract higher rates and save you trips to the yard.
Bulk vs. Regular Drop-Offs: What Works Best?
It depends on your workflow:
a. Frequent Drop-Offs:
- Great for fast cash
- Easier to store and manage
- Good if you’re doing daily or weekly demo work
b. Bulk Drop-Offs:
- Higher potential rates
- Less frequent trips
- Great for larger renovations or end-of-month dumps
Some Sydney dealers offer container drop-offs or collection services for regular tradies, ask about it if you’re moving big volumes.
Conclusion: Start Treating Scrap Like Income
If you’re in the plumbing or renovation game, you already know how much copper pipe you pull out each month. The question is, are you getting paid for it?
By selling your scrap directly to a Sydney-based scrap metal dealer, and prepping it the right way, you can turn old pipework into real revenue.
Even at mid-market prices, 100kg of clean #1 copper could bring in $1,200–$1,300 AUD. That’s not waste, that’s profit.
Final Tip: Make Copper Scrap a Habit
Once you get into the routine of separating and selling your copper pipe scrap, it becomes second nature and an easy way to put more money back into your business.
Start scrapping smart. Sydney’s dealers are buying.
