Stainless steel 304 (SS304) is one of the most widely recycled grades of stainless metal due to its excellent corrosion resistance and broad industrial use from kitchen equipment and medical devices to architectural and automotive components. In 2026, SS304 scrap price per kg in Australia continues to reflect global stainless demand, alloy markets, and recycling dynamics.
This guide breaks down what SS304 is worth, what affects pricing, and how to sell it smartly.
What Is SS304 Stainless Steel?
SS304 (also called AISI 304 or Grade 304 stainless) is an austenitic stainless steel alloy comprised primarily of iron, chromium (18–20%) and nickel (8–10.5%). Its properties include:
- Excellent corrosion resistance
- Good formability and weldability
- Widely used in industrial, commercial, and consumer applications
Common SS304 scrap sources include:
- Kitchen equipment (sinks, utensils)
- HVAC ducting and fittings
- Industrial tanks and piping
- Automotive trim and hardware
Because it is high in nickel and chromium, SS304 commands a higher scrap value than ordinary carbon steel.
SS304 Scrap Price Per KG Australia 2026
Typical Price Range (AUD per kg)
| Material Type | Approx. Price Range (AUD/kg) |
|---|---|
| Clean, sorted SS304 stainless steel | $3.00 – $4.50 |
| Mixed stainless steel (incl. minor contamination) | $2.20 – $3.50 |
| SS304 with heavy attachments or coatings | $1.80 – $2.80 |
Prices can vary based on grade purity, location, weight, and buyer demand.
Because stainless steel prices are tied to the global nickel and chromium markets, SS304 scrap pricing can rise or fall with broader alloy metal trends.
For broader metal pricing trends (including stainless and other ferrous/non‑ferrous metals), see:
https://scrap.trade/scrap-trade-lme/
https://scrap.trade/guide-to-scrap-metal-prices-by-scrap-trade/
What Affects SS304 Scrap Pricing?
Several factors play into SS304 scrap prices:
1. Purity & Sorting
Clean, well‑sorted SS304 (without non‑metal contaminants) earns more than mixed or dirty loads.
2. Quantity
Larger consignments often receive better per‑kg pricing due to reduced handling and transport costs.
3. Market Demand
Global stainless steel production, export flows, and demand from manufacturing influence pricing.
4. Buyer Competition
More interested buyers bidding on the same load tends to increase price.
5. Location & Logistics
Proximity to buyers, mills, or ports affects net returns due to transport costs.
How to Sell SS304 Scrap for Top Market Rates
1. Sort by Grade
Separate SS304 from other stainless grades (e.g., SS316) and remove attachments like rubber, plastic, or wood2. Weigh Accurately
Use certified scales to calculate net weight after removing non‑metal elements.
3. Compare Buyers
Don’t sell at the first quote. Using a verified marketplace lets multiple buyers compete for your material.
For verified buyer access in Australia, register here:
https://scrap.trade/register/
4. Sell to Verified Buyers
Online platforms like Scrap Trade connect you to a network of domestic and export‑focused buyers offering competitive pricing:
https://scrap.trade/marketplace/
5. Get Transparent Offers
You can review multiple quotes, inspect buyer ratings, and choose the best payout securely and transparently.
Learn how the process works:
https://scrap.trade/how-scrap-trade-online-works/
FAQs — SS304 Scrap Price Per KG
Q1: How much is SS304 scrap worth per kg in Australia?
Clean SS304 typically ranges from $3.00 to $4.50 per kg in 2026, depending on lot size and quality.
Q2: Can I mix different stainless grades?
Mixing grades reduces overall value. Keeping SS304 separate helps you get better pricing.
Q3: Do buyers pay more for large quantities?
Yes. Bulk lots often get higher per‑kg rates due to less handling and better transport economics.
Q4: Is SS304 scrap price tied to other metals?
Because it contains nickel and chromium, stainless pricing is influenced by broader alloy metal markets.
Q5: Is selling online safe?
Yes. Verified platforms ensure secure, compliant transactions and multiple competitive offers.
Conclusion
SS304 scrap pricing per kg in Australia for 2026 remains healthy, supported by strong stainless demand and predictable alloy quality. Clean, well‑sorted material listed to multiple buyers will almost always yield better prices than selling to a single local yard.
If you want top market returns for your SS304 scrap:
Register with Scrap Trade: https://scraptrade.com.au/register/
Connect with verified buyers: https://scrap.trade/marketplace/