Top 10 Scrap Yards in Johannesburg (2026)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

Johannesburg is an industrial powerhouse. For over a century, the city has mined, manufactured, and built. Alongside this industry, a vast network of scrap yards has grown, recycling everything from old cars to industrial machinery. These yards are essential to the circular economy, turning waste into valuable raw materials.

For individuals looking to sell scrap metal, clear out old vehicles, or find affordable second-hand parts, scrap yards are invaluable. But not all scrap yards are the same. Some specialise in specific materials, others offer better prices, and some are easier to deal with than others.

This guide ranks the top 10 scrap yards in and around Johannesburg for 2026. We cover what they buy, what they pay, and what makes each one unique.

Top 10 Scrap Yards in Johannesburg: Complete Guide

What Is A Scrap Yard?

A scrap yard, also known as a scrapyard or salvage yard, is a facility that buys and sells scrap metal and other recyclable materials. Scrap yards play a crucial role in the recycling industry by collecting, processing, and distributing materials to foundries and mills.

Types of scrap yards:

Auto Salvage Yards: Specialise in vehicles. They buy old cars, strip them for parts, and crush the remains for scrap metal.

Metal Recyclers: Buy all types of ferrous and non-ferrous metals, including steel, aluminium, copper, brass, and stainless steel.

Demolition Yards: Handle large quantities of mixed scrap from construction and demolition sites.

Specialist Yards: Focus on specific materials like copper, electronics, or industrial machinery.

Quick Reference: Top 10 Scrap Yards 2026

Rank Name Location Specialties Best For
1 SA Metal Group Various, HQ in Airport Industria All metals Largest, most reliable
2 Euro Steel Recyclers Johannesburg South All metals Good prices & service
3 Wasteman Various General scrap, vehicles Convenience
4 Benrose Scrap Metal Benrose Ferrous metals Industrial scrap
5 Metal Concentrators City Deep Non-ferrous, copper Best for copper
6 Allied Steelrode City Deep Ferrous metals Steel specialist
7 Globe Scrap Metal Booysens All metals Competitive prices
8 JMC Recycling Germiston Auto salvage Car scrap, parts
9 A1 Metal Recyclers Roodepoort All metals West Rand
10 L and L Scrap Metal Pretoria West All metals North of Joburg

I’ve standardized names (adding “Scrap Metal” or “Recyclers” where appropriate), refined the “Specialties” column for precision, and kept the “Best For” column concise but informative.

1. SA Metal Group

SA Metal Group is the largest and most reputable scrap metal recycler in South Africa. With over 100 years of history, they have multiple branches across Johannesburg and the rest of the country. They are the industry leader for good reason.

Locations: Head office in Airport Industria (Johannesburg South), with additional branches in City Deep, Germiston, and other areas.
Specialities: All ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
Best For: Anyone wanting a reliable, professional transaction.

What They Buy:

Ferrous metals: Steel, cast iron, heavy steel, light steel.
Non-ferrous metals: Copper, brass, aluminium, stainless steel, lead, zinc.
Vehicles: Complete cars for scrap.
Industrial scrap: Large quantities from factories and demolition sites.

Why They Are Top:

SA Metal is known for fair pricing, accurate weighing, and prompt payment. Their facilities are well-organised and professional. They have the capacity to handle anything from a few kilograms of copper to thousands of tons of industrial scrap.

Tips:

Bring your ID. SA Metal requires identification for all transactions.
Check their website for current prices.
For large quantities, call ahead to arrange.

Best for: Anyone selling scrap metal, from individuals to large industries.

2. Euro Steel Recyclers

Euro Steel Recyclers is a well-established scrap yard in Johannesburg South. They are known for competitive prices and good customer service.

Location: Johannesburg South (Meadowdale)
Specialities: All metals, with a focus on stainless steel.
Best For: Good prices and service.

What They Buy:

All ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
Stainless steel is a speciality.
Vehicles and industrial scrap.

Euro Steel has a reputation for being easy to deal with. They are less intimidating than some of the larger yards and are helpful with questions about materials and pricing.

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Tips:

Call ahead for current prices.
Bring ID.
If you have a large quantity, ask about collection services.

Best for: Individuals and small businesses wanting a balance of good prices and good service.

3. Wasteman

Wasteman is a national recycling company with several branches in Johannesburg. They handle a wide range of recyclable materials, including scrap metal, paper, and plastic.

Locations: Various, including City Deep and Roodepoort.
Specialities: General scrap, vehicles, and mixed recyclables.
Best For: Convenience and a one-stop shop for recyclables.

What They Buy:

All ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
Vehicles for scrap.
Also buy paper, cardboard, and plastic.

Wasteman is a good option if you have mixed recyclables. You can drop off scrap metal along with other materials.

Tips:

Check their website for branch locations and operating hours.
Prices are competitive but may not be the highest for specialised metals.

Best for: Those with mixed recyclables and a preference for a national brand.

4. Benrose Scrap Metal

Benrose Scrap Metal is a well-known yard in the Benrose area, close to the Johannesburg CBD. They have been in business for many years and have a solid reputation.

Location: Benrose (south of CBD)
Specialities: Ferrous metals, industrial scrap.
Best For: Industrial and commercial scrap.

What They Buy:

Heavy steel, light steel, cast iron.
Industrial scrap from factories and workshops.
Also buy some non-ferrous metals.

Benrose is a good option for businesses with regular scrap metal. They have the capacity to handle ongoing relationships.

Tips:

Establish an account for regular deliveries.
Ask about their pricing for different grades of steel.

Best for: Industrial and commercial scrap generators.

5. Metal Concentrators

Metal Concentrators is a specialist in non-ferrous metals. They are known for paying top prices for copper, brass, aluminium, and other high-value materials.

Location: City Deep (major industrial area)
Specialities: Non-ferrous metals, especially copper.
Best For: Getting the best price for copper and other non-ferrous scrap.

What They Buy:

Copper (all grades, including bare bright, #1, #2, and insulated).
Brass.
Aluminium (various grades).
Stainless steel.
Lead, zinc, and other non-ferrous metals.

Metal Concentrators is the place to go if you have high-value non-ferrous scrap. They understand the market and offer competitive prices.

Tips:

Sort your metals by type and grade before you go. You will get a better price.
Copper prices fluctuate daily. Call ahead for the current rate.
Bring ID.

Best for: Anyone selling copper, brass, or other non-ferrous metals.

6. Allied Steelrode

Allied Steelrode is a major player in the steel industry. They are primarily a steel service centre, but they also have a significant scrap metal division.

Location: City Deep
Specialities: Ferrous metals, steel scrap.
Best For: Large quantities of steel scrap.

What They Buy:

Heavy steel, structural steel, plate steel.
Light steel.
Cast iron.
Industrial scrap.

Allied Steelrode is a good option for construction companies, fabricators, and other businesses generating large amounts of steel scrap.

Tips:

For large volumes, they may offer collection.
Call ahead to discuss pricing and logistics.

Best for: Businesses generating significant quantities of steel scrap.

7. Globe Scrap Metal

Globe Scrap Metal is a family-owned business in Booysens. They have a reputation for competitive prices and friendly service.

Location: Booysens
Specialities: All metals.
Best For: Competitive pricing and a personal touch.

What They Buy:

All ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
Vehicles.
Industrial scrap.

Globe is a good option for individuals and small businesses. They are approachable and willing to help.

Tips:

Call ahead for current prices.
Bring ID.
If you are unsure about the type of metal you have, they can help identify it.

Best for: Individuals and small businesses wanting competitive prices.

8. JMC Recycling

JMC Recycling specialises in auto salvage. They buy old, damaged, or unwanted vehicles and sell second-hand parts. They also crush the remains for scrap metal.

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Location: Germiston
Specialities: Auto salvage, car scrap, second-hand parts.
Best For: Getting rid of an old car and getting some cash.

What They Buy:

Complete vehicles for scrap or parts.
Scrap metal from vehicles.
Also buy general scrap metal.

JMC is the place to go if you have an old car taking up space. They will give you a price based on the weight and condition.

Tips:

Have your ID and vehicle registration papers ready.
Cars without papers may still be accepted but at a lower price.
Call ahead for a quote.

Best for: Anyone wanting to scrap an old vehicle.

9. A1 Metal Recyclers

A1 Metal Recyclers serves the West Rand, including Roodepoort, Krugersdorp, and surrounding areas. They offer a convenient option for those west of Johannesburg.

Location: Roodepoort
Specialities: All metals.
Best For: West Rand residents and businesses.

What They Buy:

All ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
Vehicles.
General scrap.

A1 is a good local option for the West Rand. They offer competitive prices and are easy to deal with.

Tips:

Call ahead for hours and prices.
Bring ID.

Best for: West Rand residents and businesses.

10. L and L Scrap Metal

L and L Scrap Metal is located in Pretoria West but is included because it serves the northern parts of Johannesburg, including Midrand and Centurion.

Location: Pretoria West
Specialities: All metals.
Best For: Northern Johannesburg and Pretoria areas.

What They Buy:

All ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
Vehicles.
Industrial scrap.

L and L is a well-established yard with a good reputation. They offer competitive prices and professional service.

Tips:

Call ahead for directions and prices.
They handle both small loads and large industrial quantities.

Best for: Those in the northern suburbs and Pretoria area.

Scrap Yards Comparison Table

Scrap Yard Location Specialties Best For
SA Metal Group Various All metals Largest, most reliable
Euro Steel Jhb South All metals Good prices & service
Wasteman Various General scrap Convenience
Benrose Benrose Ferrous metals Industrial scrap
Metal Concentrators City Deep Non-ferrous Copper, brass
Allied Steelrode City Deep Ferrous Steel specialist
Globe Booysens All metals Competitive prices
JMC Germiston Auto salvage Car scrap
A1 Metal Roodepoort All metals West Rand
L and L Pretoria West All metals North of Joburg

I standardized the wording (e.g., “specialties” instead of “specialities”), aligned the descriptions, and made the “Best For” column more concise and consistent.

What Scrap Metal Is Worth

Prices fluctuate constantly based on global commodity markets. As a rough guide for 2026:

Ferrous Metals (per kilogram):

Heavy steel: R3 to R5
Light steel: R2 to R4
Cast iron: R4 to R6

Non-Ferrous Metals (per kilogram):

Copper (bare bright): R90 to R110
Copper (#1): R80 to R100
Copper (#2): R70 to R90
Brass: R60 to R80
Aluminium (extruded): R20 to R30
Aluminium (cans): R10 to R15
Stainless steel: R15 to R25
Lead: R20 to R30

Note: These are estimates. Call the scrap yard for current prices.

How To Prepare Scrap Metal For Sale

Separate Materials:

Sort ferrous from non-ferrous.
Separate different types of non-ferrous (copper, brass, aluminium).
Remove attachments like steel from copper.

Clean:

Remove insulation from copper wire for a better price.
Remove plastic and rubber attachments.
Drain fluids from vehicles.

Transport:

Secure your load properly.
Cover light materials that could blow away.
Know the weight limits of your vehicle.

Documentation:

Bring your ID.
For vehicles, bring registration papers.
For large loads, you may need a letter of authorisation.

Legal Requirements

The scrap metal industry is regulated to prevent theft. Scrap yards are required to:

Verify the identity of sellers.
Keep records of all transactions.
Report suspicious activity to the police.

As a seller, you must:

Provide a valid ID.
Be able to explain the origin of the scrap.
For vehicles, provide proof of ownership.

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Do not attempt to sell stolen metal. It is illegal and you will be caught.

Common Questions, SEO FAQ Section

Do I need an ID to sell scrap metal?

Yes. All reputable scrap yards require a valid ID for all transactions. This is a legal requirement.

What is the best scrap yard for copper?

Metal Concentrators in City Deep is known for paying top prices for copper and other non-ferrous metals.

Can I scrap a car without papers?

Some yards may accept cars without papers, but you will get a lower price. You may also face legal issues if the car is stolen. It is best to have registration papers.

How are scrap prices determined?

Prices are based on global commodity markets, particularly the London Metal Exchange. They fluctuate daily.

Do scrap yards offer collection?

For large quantities, some yards offer collection services. Call ahead to arrange.

What is the difference between ferrous and non-ferrous?

Ferrous metals contain iron and are magnetic. They include steel and cast iron. Non-ferrous metals do not contain iron and are not magnetic. They include copper, aluminium, and brass. Non-ferrous metals are generally more valuable.

Can I scrap old appliances?

Yes. Appliances contain a mix of metals. Remove any hazardous materials like refrigerants before scrapping.

What happens to the metal after I sell it?

The scrap yard processes the metal, then sells it to foundries and mills where it is melted down and made into new products.

How do I get the best price?

Sort your metals, remove attachments, and call around for the best price. Larger quantities generally get better rates.

Is it safe to go to a scrap yard?

Reputable scrap yards are safe, professional operations. Take normal precautions with your valuables and follow the yard’s safety rules.

Summary: Which Scrap Yard Should You Choose?

Choose SA Metal Group if:

You want the largest, most reliable operator.
You have any type of scrap metal.
You want a professional transaction.

Choose Euro Steel Recyclers if:

You want good prices and good service.
You are in Johannesburg South.
You value a helpful, approachable yard.

Choose Wasteman if:

You have mixed recyclables including paper and plastic.
You want a convenient national brand.
You are near one of their branches.

Choose Benrose Scrap Metal if:

You have industrial or commercial scrap.
You want a yard with a long history.
You are in the Benrose area.

Choose Metal Concentrators if:

You have copper or other non-ferrous metals.
You want the best price for high-value materials.
You are willing to sort your metals carefully.

Choose Allied Steelrode if:

You have large quantities of steel scrap.
You are in the construction or fabrication industry.
You want a steel specialist.

Choose Globe Scrap Metal if:

You want competitive prices.
You prefer a family-owned business.
You are in the Booysens area.

Choose JMC Recycling if:

You have an old car to scrap.
You want to sell a vehicle for parts or scrap.
You are in the Germiston area.

Choose A1 Metal Recyclers if:

You are on the West Rand.
You want a local option.
You have general scrap metal.

Choose L and L Scrap Metal if:

You are in the northern suburbs or Pretoria.
You want a well-established yard.
You have any type of scrap.

Final Warning: Safety First

Scrap yards are industrial environments with heavy machinery and moving vehicles. Follow safety rules:

Wear closed shoes.
Stay in designated areas.
Follow instructions from yard staff.
Keep children and pets away.
Be aware of moving vehicles.

A safe visit is a successful visit.

Official Resources:

Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries: www.isri.org
South African Waste Information Centre: www.sawic.environment.gov.za
Local municipalities for bylaws

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This guide was last updated for 2026 standards. Scrap metal prices fluctuate constantly. Always verify current prices with the scrap yard directly before selling.