How is a genuinely mixed load of different metals actually priced?
Short answer: Mixed loads are typically priced lower per kilogram than the same metals sold separately, since the buyer bears the cost and effort of sorting the material themselves — some buyers offer a blended "mixed metal" rate that averages out the likely composition, while others may sort on-site and pay per-metal rates minus a handling adjustment, so separating your material yourself before selling, when practical, generally captures more value.
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List Free →Why sorting effort gets priced in
Every hour a buyer spends sorting mixed material by hand is effort they wouldn’t need if it arrived pre-sorted — that labour cost is reflected in a lower blended rate for mixed loads compared to already-separated metal.
Why a “mixed metal rate” is often a compromise
A blended rate essentially estimates the average value across the likely mix, which protects the buyer from overpaying if the load turns out to be mostly lower-value metal, but also means a load that’s actually mostly high-value metal won’t get full credit for that under a blended rate.
When separating yourself is worth the time
If the load contains a meaningful proportion of higher-value non-ferrous metal, the time spent separating it out is often well worth it; for a small load that’s mostly lower-value material, the time cost may not be worth the modest price improvement.
How ScrapTrade Fits In
Whether sorted or mixed, ScrapTrade connects you with buyers ready to make a real offer on your material as it actually is.
Understanding grading and purity terminology helps you know what your material is actually worth. ScrapTrade connects verified buyers and sellers with transparent weighing and escrow-protected payments.
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