Chloe Zhang
The price of plastic scrap varies depending on the type of plastic and the region in which it is being traded. For example, the price of PET plastic scrap in one region may be different from the price of HDPE or LDPE plastic scrap in another region. Additionally, the price of plastic scrap can fluctuate over time, with some reports indicating an upward trend in plastic scrap prices in recent months. Several online platforms provide live updates on plastic scrap prices, with some offering historical price data and advanced graphs to paid subscribers. These platforms also facilitate direct connections between suppliers and buyers of plastic scrap, enabling real-time negotiations and transactions. The price of plastic scrap is influenced by factors such as supply and demand, the quality of the scrap, and the specific characteristics of the plastic, such as its strength, flexibility, and heat resistance.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic scrap prices | Vary depending on the type of plastic and region |
| Recent price trends | Prices have been on a steady upward trend for several months, with an increase in March 2023 |
| Example prices | PET containers: 13.94 cents per pound; Grade B film: 7.94 cents; Grade C film: 0.5 cents per pound |
| Plastic types | PET, LDPE, HDPE, PVC, PP, PS, ABS, Nylon, PC |
| Trading | Plastic scrap can be traded directly with suppliers and buyers in 140 countries |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic scrap prices vary across US states
The price of plastic scrap depends on various factors, including the type of plastic, supply and demand, and the specific market conditions in each state. Different types of plastic have different values, with some being more sought-after and valuable than others. For instance, PET container prices experienced a 30% decline from June to July, while Grade B film increased from 6.94 cents to 7.94 cents per pound.
The US plastic scrap market is also influenced by international trade. China used to be a significant importer of the world's scrap plastic, but changes in its policies have led to a shift in the industry. This has likely contributed to the varying prices across states, as suppliers and buyers adjust to new trading dynamics.
Additionally, state regulations and recycling initiatives can impact the price of plastic scrap. For example, California has the California Code of Regulations (CCR), which requires the Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery to provide monthly notifications of the statewide weighted average scrap values for different beverage container materials. This transparency in reporting can influence pricing not only in California but also in other states, as market participants have access to this information.
The variability in plastic scrap prices across US states highlights the dynamic nature of the recycling industry and the complex interplay of factors that determine the value of recyclable materials. While prices may differ, the overall trend of increasing scrap plastic values is encouraging for the promotion of recycling practices and the development of a more sustainable economy.
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Plastic scrap prices are rising
Plastic scrap prices are on a steady upward trend, with notable rises observed in March 2023. This continues a pattern of increasing prices over several months. The price increases vary across different types of plastics. For instance, PET prices have experienced a notable surge, with the national average price of post-consumer PET beverage bottles and jars reaching 13.94 cents per pound, compared to 13.16 cents per pound in February 2023. This upward trajectory for PET is even more evident when compared to its price a year ago, at 23.42 cents.
Another type of plastic witnessing price hikes is natural high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which has seen its national average price rise by 10%, now sitting at 68.22 cents per pound. The increases in PET and HDPE prices are not isolated cases, with other plastics like color HDPE and PP also joining the upward trend, increasing by 45% and 51%, respectively, in a single month.
These rising prices for plastic scrap can be beneficial for Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs), helping to offset some of the challenges they face due to downturns in fiber markets. The upward trend in plastic scrap prices is not limited to a specific region or country, as it has been observed in various US states and is also influenced by global factors, such as China's previous role as a significant importer of scrap materials.
The plastic scrap trading industry is evolving, with startups like Scrapo Inc. aiming to streamline connections between buyers and suppliers of recycled plastics and plastic scraps from numerous countries, further influencing the market dynamics and prices of plastic scrap globally.
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HDPE, LDPE, and PP plastics
The price of plastic scrap varies depending on the type of plastic and the location. HDPE, LDPE, and PP plastics are commonly traded in the plastic scrap market, and their prices can vary based on various factors such as supply and demand, location, and the quality of the scrap material.
HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) plastic scrap is widely traded, and its price can vary depending on the market and location. For example, the national average price of HDPE plastic scrap in the United States scrap yards can range from low to high, with the market price recorded on March 3, 2025, being 0.58 USD/LB.
LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) plastic scrap is also commonly traded. LDPE is known for its durability and low stiffness, and it is often sourced from post-industrial waste streams. The price of LDPE scrap can vary based on its grade, with higher grades typically commanding higher prices. LDPE scrap is traded internationally, with suppliers in Japan, the US, and Europe offering competitive prices.
PP plastic, also known as polypropylene, is another commonly traded plastic scrap material. PP plastic is used in a variety of applications and is known for its durability and flexibility. The price of PP plastic scrap can vary depending on the market and location, similar to HDPE and LDPE. Online platforms, such as Scrapo, facilitate direct trading between suppliers and buyers of PP plastic scrap, allowing for price negotiations and real-time deals.
The prices of HDPE, LDPE, and PP plastic scrap can be influenced by global trends and market dynamics. For instance, China used to import a significant portion of the world's scrap plastic, impacting the revenues of mixed waste sellers. However, with China's changing policies, new opportunities have emerged for buyers and sellers to connect and trade directly, potentially affecting price negotiations.
Overall, the prices of HDPE, LDPE, and PP plastic scrap vary based on market conditions, location, and the quality of the material. Online platforms and scrap yards offer buyers and sellers the ability to connect and negotiate prices, contributing to a dynamic and global plastic scrap market.
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Plastic scrap trading platforms
The price of plastic scrap varies depending on several factors, including the type of plastic, its quality, and the location of the buyer and seller. To get the best price for plastic scrap, it is advisable to use trading platforms that facilitate direct connections between suppliers and buyers. Here are some details about a few plastic scrap trading platforms:
ScrapC is an online marketplace that enables users to buy and sell plastic scrap, along with other materials such as metal, paper, fabric, wood, and machinery. The platform is user-friendly and allows for easy registration, seamless logistics support, and direct communication between buyers and sellers. The integrated chat feature helps negotiate deals and clarify queries, ensuring a smooth trading experience. The platform also provides daily notifications based on specific requirements, helping users stay updated on potential deals.
Scrapo is another plastic scrap trading platform that connects suppliers and buyers of recyclable plastics from over 140 countries. It offers a convenient way to post products for sale in under a minute and facilitates direct negotiations with multiple sellers through its app. Scrapo aims to bridge the gap between buyers and sellers, addressing the lack of trust that can hinder market efficiency.
Additionally, there are other platforms like Recycleinme and ScrapMonster that provide information on plastic scrap prices and allow users to subscribe for detailed price data, graphs, and historical information. These platforms offer insights into various types of plastics and their applications, helping users make informed decisions about buying and selling plastic scrap.
By utilizing these trading platforms, individuals and businesses can contribute to reducing plastic disposal and promoting the recycling of plastic scrap on a global scale.
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Plastic scrap prices by container type
The price of plastic scrap is influenced by several factors, including the type of plastic, market demand, and container type. While specific prices for different container types are not readily available, here is an overview of plastic scrap prices and the factors that influence them:
Plastic Scrap Prices by Type
The price of plastic scrap varies depending on the specific type of plastic. For example, the national average price for colour HDPE in the United States has fluctuated over time, ranging from 6.16 cents per pound in September to 13.44 cents per pound more recently. Polypropylene (PP), another type of plastic, has seen similar price variations, trading at 5.38 cents per pound last month and now at 8.13 cents per pound. These price fluctuations are not limited to the US market; in Europe, the average price of plastic scrap reached its highest value in 2022 at 467 Euros per tonne, up from 334 Euros per tonne in 2012.
Container Types and Prices
Although specific prices for different container types are not readily available, certain container types are associated with specific plastics, which do have known price ranges. For example, PET containers, which are a type of plastic beverage bottle or jar, have seen price fluctuations. In March 2023, the national average price for post-consumer PET containers was 13.94 cents per pound, with some regions trading as high as 17.00 cents per pound. However, just a few months earlier in December 2022, PET was trading 30% lower at an average of 10.75 cents.
Market Demand and Policy Influence
The price of plastic scrap is influenced by market demand and recycling policies. Higher prices are often linked to increased demand for secondary materials and improved quality. Recycling policies, such as the EU's focus on recycled content requirements, can stimulate demand for recycled plastics and impact their price. Additionally, policy interventions outside the EU, like the 2018 Chinese ban, have also been speculated to influence plastic scrap prices.
Specialist Plastics and Rebate Pricing
Certain "specialist" plastics can command even higher prices. For example, PVC guttering, mouldings, and fixings averaged up to £250 per tonne in 2017. Acrylic PMMA scrap from old shop displays and office desk covers fetched prices between £200 and £250 per tonne during the same period. These prices are often outlined in plastic recycling rebate guides, which can help businesses and individuals understand the value of their plastic scrap.
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Frequently asked questions
The price of plastic scrap in the US varies depending on the type of plastic and location. As of March 2023, the national average price of post-consumer PET beverage bottles and jars is 13.94 cents per pound. The national average price of natural high-density polyethylene (HDPE) is 68.22 cents per pound.
The price of plastic scrap can be influenced by a variety of factors such as supply and demand, the type of plastic, the location, and the quality or grade of the plastic scrap.
The price of plastic scrap has been on an upward trend for several months. For example, the price of PET beverage bottles and jars has increased by 6% over the past month and by 30% since March 2023. However, it is important to note that prices can fluctuate and there may be monthly or seasonal variations.
There are various websites and apps that provide real-time or daily updates on plastic scrap prices, such as Scrap Monster, Recycleinme, Scrapo, and Resource Recycling. These sources often require a membership or subscription to access live data and historical price graphs.
