What's a Washing Machine (Front Loader) Worth in Scrap?
A typical washing machine (front loader) (75 kg) is worth about $37–$50 in scrap at Sydney benchmark rates on (mid estimate $43.39). Copper makes up about 53% of that value. These are estimates, not yard quotes. Where these numbers come from.
Based on current Australian scrap yard rates and a typical washing machine (front loader)'s metal composition. Actual yard offers vary by city, load size, and material condition.
Component breakdown
A typical washing machine (front loader) weighs 75kg total. Here's where the value comes from — sorted by component, with the metal type, grade, and estimated payout.
| Component | Metal & grade | Weight (kg) | Est. mid value (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabinet and chassis | Steel · Light Steel | 40.0 | $2.02 |
| Inner drum and door surround | Stainless Steel · 304 Stainless | 10.0 | $13.23 |
| Motor windings (front loaders have larger motors) | Copper · #2 Copper | 2.0 | $23.21 |
| Pump and bearing housings | Aluminium · Cast Aluminium | 2.0 | $4.93 |
Where these numbers come from
| Figure | Value | Source | Type | Checked |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Copper spot price | A$20.01/kg | MetalpriceAPI (LME-linked market data) | Market data feed | |
| Aluminium spot price | A$4.48/kg | MetalpriceAPI (LME-linked market data) | Market data feed | |
| Steel spot price | A$0.42/kg | Fixed site estimate of A$0.42/kg | Fixed estimate, not a market feed | |
| Stainless Steel spot price | A$2.41/kg | Calculated: 8% nickel (MetalpriceAPI) + a fixed A$0.50/kg chromium allowance | Our calculation, partly a fixed estimate | |
| Typical washing machine (front loader) weight and metal content | 75 kg | Our estimate of a typical unit (shown in the breakdown above) | Our estimate | |
| Grade payout rates | 12–78% of spot | Our estimate from published yard rate cards | Our estimate |
Spot prices are converted to Australian dollars per kilogram. Yard payouts are our estimates (spot × grade payout rate × regional factor), not quotes from any yard. Set when the site launched on 2026-05-16 and not updated since. No live steel scrap price feed is used. The chromium allowance is a fixed figure set on 2026-05-16, not a market price. Full detail: methodology.
How yards handle a washing machine (front loader)
Front loaders arrive at the yard heavier than they look, and most of that extra mass is concrete. Yards weigh the unit whole as light steel, so anything that is not metal is either deducted at the weighbridge or quietly rolled into a lower rate. The two counterweights bolted around the tub are the first thing to remove. The motor is the component worth freeing, because front loader motors are larger and the yard will pay it as a motor rather than as cabinet steel. The plastic outer tub is not worth stripping for the few fasteners in it. Turning up with the concrete still inside is the mistake that downgrades the load. One machine is worth the trip if you can get it there.
Before you take it in
A few minutes of preparation can lift the value toward the high end of the estimated range.
- → Remove concrete counterweights (often two, totalling 20-25kg)
- → Strip the power cord for cleaner copper value
- → The outer drum is usually plastic — separate from steel chassis
Where to sell a washing machine (front loader)
Any scrap yard accepting the relevant metals will buy a washing machine (front loader). Use our city directory to find yards in your area and see region-specific rates — payouts in regional and remote areas are typically lower than capital cities due to transport costs.
For larger items, call ahead to confirm pickup arrangements or weighbridge access. Most yards have minimum drop-off weights.
Other household appliances
Frequently asked questions
How much is a washing machine (front loader) worth in scrap? +
A washing machine (front loader) is worth approximately $36.88 to $49.91 AUD in scrap value, with a mid estimate of $43.39. The exact amount depends on the city you sell in (yards in remote cities pay less due to transport costs), the condition of the components, and how well the item is prepared before drop-off.
What metals are in a washing machine (front loader)? +
A typical washing machine (front loader) contains 40kg of steel, 10kg of stainless steel, 2kg of copper, 2kg of aluminium, totalling about 75kg. The copper component contributes the most value (around $23.21), even though it's not always the heaviest.
How do I prepare a washing machine (front loader) for scrapping? +
Several steps lift the return: (1) Remove concrete counterweights (often two, totalling 20-25kg) (2) Strip the power cord for cleaner copper value (3) The outer drum is usually plastic — separate from steel chassis
Where can I sell a washing machine (front loader) for scrap? +
Any scrap yard accepting the relevant metals will buy a washing machine (front loader). See our <a href="/cities/">city directory</a> for region-specific yards and rates. Larger items may need pickup arrangement or weighbridge access — call ahead to confirm hours and acceptance.
Is it worth scrapping a single washing machine (front loader)? +
At $43.39 mid estimate, a washing machine (front loader) is generally worth scrapping. Proper preparation can lift the value toward the high end of the range — see the prep tips above.