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Good morning from 603 Auto Salvage. Monday, April 6th, 2026 brings encouraging developments in the scrap steel sector, with clean shredded steel climbing to $195 per ton—a solid 2.5% gain from Friday’s close. Copper continues its impressive run, now trading at $4.25 per pound, while aluminum faces slight headwinds in the short term. The used car wholesale market maintains its strength with the Manheim Index reaching 131.2, marking the strongest April opening since 2023.
For New England auto recyclers, today’s market signals present both opportunities and strategic considerations as we head into the traditionally active spring season.
| Metal Type | Current Price | Weekly Change | Market Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steel – Shredded | $195/ton | +2.5% (+$4.80) | Strong domestic demand |
| Steel – HMS #1 | $210/ton | +1.8% (+$3.70) | Export markets firming |
| Aluminum – Clean | $0.92/lb | -1.2% (-$0.011) | Temporary supply glut |
| Aluminum – Dirty | $0.78/lb | -0.8% (-$0.006) | Processing bottlenecks |
| Copper #1 | $4.25/lb | +3.2% (+$0.132) | Infrastructure spending boost |
| Copper #2 | $3.90/lb | +2.8% (+$0.106) | Following #1 grade |
| Catalytic Converters | $145/unit avg | +4.1% (+$5.70) | Palladium price recovery |
The ferrous metals sector is showing renewed strength this week, driven by increased construction activity and infrastructure projects across New England. Regional steel mills are reporting improved order books, particularly from Boston-area construction firms preparing for spring building seasons. HMS #1 grades are especially strong at $210 per ton, with export terminals in Providence and Boston seeing increased activity.
Aluminum faces temporary pressure from processing delays at regional smelters, but the fundamentals remain solid. Clean aluminum continues to command premium pricing, though the spread between clean and dirty grades has narrowed slightly. Recyclers should focus on preparation quality to maximize returns.
Copper’s impressive 3.2% weekly gain reflects broader infrastructure spending initiatives. The Biden administration’s infrastructure programs are creating sustained demand for copper wiring and plumbing materials. For auto recyclers, this means prioritizing copper recovery from air conditioning systems, wiring harnesses, and radiators.
Catalytic converter values jumped 4.1% as palladium prices stabilized following recent volatility. However, recyclers should remain vigilant about theft prevention and proper documentation given the high-value nature of these components.
The wholesale used car market continues its impressive performance with the Manheim Used Vehicle Value Index reaching 131.2—the highest April opening in three years. Auction volumes decreased 5.2% to 47,800 units, reflecting typical spring inventory adjustments as dealers prepare for peak selling season.
Key market drivers include:
• Spring demand surge: New England buyers emerging from winter hibernation, seeking reliable transportation
• Inventory discipline: Dealers maintaining tight stock levels, supporting pricing power
• Credit availability: Improved financing options for used car buyers
• New car delays: Supply chain issues continue pushing buyers toward used vehicles
The wholesale-to-retail price spread widened to 18.3%, indicating healthy dealer profit margins. This suggests strong consumer demand at the retail level, which should translate into continued strength for wholesale markets.
Popular models showing particular strength:
• Compact SUVs (Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4): Up 3-5% weekly
• Pickup trucks (F-150, Silverado): Steady demand, premium for lower mileage
• Hybrid vehicles: 8-12% premium over comparable gas models
For auto recyclers, this strength in used car values means potentially higher competition for salvageable vehicles at insurance auctions. However, it also indicates strong demand for quality used parts, particularly for popular models.
New England’s economic landscape shows positive momentum entering April. The regional PMI (Purchasing Managers Index) reached 52.8, indicating expansion in manufacturing activity. This is particularly relevant for scrap metal demand, as local manufacturers increase production.
Inflation remains moderate at 2.4% year-over-year, providing stability for commodity pricing. Gas prices averaged $3.89 across the region—slightly above the national average but stable week-over-week. Construction activity increased 2.1% in March, the strongest monthly gain since last summer.
These indicators suggest sustained demand for both scrap metals and automotive recycling services through the spring and summer months.
Several key factors are shaping current market conditions:
Infrastructure Investment: The Massachusetts Department of Transportation announced $2.3 billion in highway and bridge projects for 2026, creating sustained demand for steel and other metals.
Trade Policies: Recent tariff adjustments on imported steel are providing some protection for domestic pricing, though global supply dynamics remain the primary driver.
Environmental Regulations: New EPA guidelines for automotive recycling take effect in June, potentially affecting operational costs but also creating barriers to entry for smaller competitors.
Technology Trends: Electric vehicle adoption continues at 15% annual growth in New England, requiring recyclers to adapt processes for lithium battery recovery and high-voltage component handling.
The coming week should see continued strength in ferrous metals, with steel prices potentially testing $200 per ton for shredded material. Copper appears poised for further gains, while aluminum may find support at current levels.
Strategic Recommendations:
• Steel priority: Maximize steel recovery and preparation quality to capture premium pricing
• Copper focus: Prioritize copper-bearing components given strong demand trends
• Inventory timing: Consider strategic selling of accumulated inventory given favorable pricing environment
• Quality emphasis: Maintain preparation standards as buyers become more selective
Risk Factors to Monitor:
• Global steel production data (released Wednesday)
• Federal Reserve meeting minutes (Thursday)
• Regional construction employment figures (Friday)
For 603 Auto Salvage and fellow New England recyclers, the current market environment presents solid opportunities across most commodity categories. Focus on operational efficiency and quality preparation to maximize returns in this favorable pricing environment.
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Data compiled from American Metal Market, London Metal Exchange, Manheim Auctions, and regional economic sources. Prices reflect New England regional averages and may vary by location and volume. Always verify current market conditions before making business decisions.
Previous Reports: View our complete market analysis archive | Contact 603 Auto Salvage for current buying rates and services.
About 603 Auto Salvage: Serving New Hampshire’s auto recycling needs since 1987. Located in Plaistow, NH, we provide professional auto recycling services, quality used parts, and current market pricing for scrap vehicles. Call (603) 382-6364 for current rates.
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