Metal Recycling Process & Price Differences: U.S. vs India | Global Scrap Market Insights

Metal recycling is not just about sustainability — it's also big business. Whether you're in the United States or India, recycling metals like steel, aluminum, and copper plays a crucial role in resource conservation and the circular economy.

 

But did you know that the price of scrap metal and the recycling methods vary significantly between countries?

 

The Metal Recycling Process: From Scrap to New Material

The process is largely similar globally, though efficiency and automation differ by region:

 

 1. Collection & Segregation

Scrap is collected from homes, industries, and commercial buildings. In developed markets like the U.S., this process is highly automated and regulated. In India, startups like Kabadigo are digitizing it with online pickup systems.

 

2. Sorting & Processing

Magnets, eddy current separators, and AI-based systems help separate metals like iron, copper, brass, aluminum, etc.

 

3. Melting

Each type of metal is melted in a furnace at its specific temperature. In the U.S., energy-efficient electric arc furnaces (EAFs) are common. India still uses a mix of traditional and modern technologies.

 

4. Purification & Solidifying

Purity is enhanced through electrolysis or chemicals. The metal is then cast into ingots or sheets for reuse.

 

Metal Price Comparison: U.S. vs India (2025 Snapshot)

 

Metal Type	Avg. Scrap Price in USA (USD/ton)	Avg. Scrap Price in India (INR/ton)	Approx USD Equivalent (India)
Copper	$7,000	₹520,000	~$6,250
Aluminum	$1,800	₹140,000	~$1,680
Iron/Steel	$350	₹28,000	~$335
Brass	$4,000	₹320,000	~$3,850

Rates may vary based on purity, region, and demand.

 

Why Are Metal Prices Different Between the U.S. and India?

Several economic and structural factors contribute:

 

1. Supply Chain Efficiency

• The U.S. has more organized scrap logistics, driving up quality and consistency.

• India relies heavily on informal scrap channels — but Kabadigo is working to formalize this market.

 

2. Recycling Infrastructure

• The U.S. has more advanced recycling facilities, resulting in lower processing costs per unit.

• India is catching up with newer tech and startups like Kabadigo making it scalable.

 

3. Demand & Consumption Patterns

• Industrial demand for metals is higher in the U.S. for construction and tech manufacturing.

• India sees more household-level scrap generation and resale.

 

4. Currency & Trade Policies

• Export/import duties, local taxes, and currency exchange rates affect pricing.

 

 

Final Thoughts: A Connected Global Scrap Economy

While metal recycling is a global industry, the way it’s priced and processed still varies by country. As India modernizes its waste management system, platforms like Kabadigo are closing the gap with Western models.

Whether you're a household in Delhi or a factory in Texas, recycling metals responsibly is a win-win — for the planet and your pocket.