Scrap metal has real cash value — copper, brass and aluminum pay the most, while steel and iron are accepted almost everywhere for less per pound. Prices move daily with commodity markets, so call ahead for the day's rate before you haul a load.

In Delaware we list 6 scrap yards and metal buyers across 6 cities, with the most in Delmar, Hartly, Lincoln, New Castle and Seaford. Each links to its full page with address, phone and hours.

Scrap Yards & Metal Buyers in Delaware

Ace Towing & We Pay Cash For Cars

📍Wilmington · 511 Belmont Ave, Wilmington, DE 19804
📞+1 302-377-0645
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Delaware Auto Salvage

📍New Castle · 469 Old Airport Rd, New Castle, DE 19720
📞+1 302-322-2328
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Sussex Scrap Metal Inc

📍Delmar · 36540 Bi State Blvd, Delmar, DE 19940
📞+1 302-846-9749
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Dover Scrap Metal

📍Hartly · Inc, 3221 Hartly Rd, Hartly, DE 19953
📞+1 302-492-8091
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Fitzgerald Salvage & Recycling

📍Lincoln · 17115 Fitzgeralds Rd, Lincoln, DE 19960
📞+1 302-422-7584
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Kroger's Salvage Inc

📍Seaford · 29379 Hearn's Ln, Seaford, DE 19973
📞+1 302-877-8051
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What Metals Are Worth the Most?

🧲 Ferrous metals
Steel, iron, cast iron and most appliances. Magnetic and lower-value per pound, but accepted almost everywhere.
🟤 Copper
Wire, pipe and tubing. One of the highest-value everyday metals — strip insulation for a better rate.
⚪ Aluminum
Cans, siding, gutters, wheels and extrusions. Light, common and widely bought.
🟡 Brass
Fittings, valves, keys and fixtures. Mid-to-high value; often mixed with copper.
🚗 Catalytic converters
High value due to precious metals inside. Sales are regulated in many states — bring the vehicle title or proof of ownership.
🔋 Lead & batteries
Wheel weights and lead-acid batteries. Handled separately for safety; call ahead.

Before You Sell

  • Sort ferrous (magnetic) from non-ferrous metals — mixed loads are paid at the lowest rate.
  • Strip insulation from copper and aluminum wire where practical for a higher price per pound.
  • Drain fluids from any automotive parts before drop-off.
  • Bring a government-issued photo ID — most yards are required to record it for metal purchases.
  • Call ahead for the day's prices; scrap rates move with commodity markets and change often.

Scrap Metal FAQ — Delaware

Which Delaware cities have the most scrap yards?

The most scrap buyers are in Delmar (1), Hartly (1), Lincoln (1), New Castle (1) and Seaford (1). In total we list 6 scrap yards across 6 Delaware cities — all listed above with addresses and hours.

Do I need an ID to sell scrap metal in Delaware?

In most states, scrap yards are legally required to record a government-issued photo ID for metal purchases, and payment for certain items may be by check or delayed. Bring ID and, for vehicles or catalytic converters, proof of ownership.

How much is scrap metal worth in Delaware?

Prices are set per pound and vary daily with commodity markets. Non-ferrous metals like copper and brass pay the most; ferrous steel and iron pay less. Call the yards listed above for that day's rates before you haul.

Can I sell a catalytic converter?

Many yards buy catalytic converters, but sales are increasingly regulated to curb theft. Expect to show ID and proof that the part came from a vehicle you own.

What's the difference between ferrous and non-ferrous scrap?

Ferrous metals (steel, iron) are magnetic and lower value; non-ferrous metals (copper, aluminum, brass) are not magnetic and pay significantly more. A magnet is the quickest way to tell them apart.

See all scrap yards by city, the full Delaware recycling directory, or scrap buyers in Texas, Illinois, Florida, Virginia, Arkansas.