April Scrap Metal Report: Copper Holds Strong, Jobs Picking Up

Copper Moved Higher in April and Held Off a Late Pullback. Here’s What It Means:

After a volatile March, copper regained momentum through most of April, climbing back toward recent highs as supply concerns and steady demand supported the market.

For much of the month, copper pricing stayed firm. Continued investment in infrastructure, electrification, and data center expansion helped reinforce the long-term demand story. At the same time, limited new mine supply kept a floor under the market.

Late in the month, copper saw some selling pressure and briefly pulled back. But instead of breaking down further, prices stabilized and recovered, showing continued strength in the market.

The good news for sellers: Copper spent most of April at strong levels, and even after the late-month volatility, pricing for common scrap like pipe, wire, and copper solids remained attractive compared to historical averages.

For contractors and scrappers, this kind of market creates opportunity. When copper moves like this, timing becomes more important. Selling into strength versus waiting through dips can make a noticeable difference.

Bottom line: April showed that copper demand remains strong and the market is holding up well. Expect continued movement, but with a solid foundation underneath.

What to watch:
If demand from infrastructure and energy projects stays strong, copper could push higher again. If broader economic uncertainty returns, expect short-term swings, but with support still in place.