Dale's Recycling In Milan TN

About Dale's Recycling in Milan, TN

Looking for that elusive part for your ride? Or maybe you've got an old clunker ready for retirement? Folks around Milan, Tennessee, know the name Dale's Recycling. Located at 5 Concord Cades Rd, Milan, TN 38358, this spot is a go-to for all things metal recycling and has some interesting history to boot.

While some of their recycling efforts trace back to the early 1980s, Dale's Recycling officially kicked off as a formal business around 2006 or 2007. The brains behind the operation is Dale Nelson Sr., a man with a real passion for metal recycling and even racing! His son, Cody Nelson, is also a key figure in keeping things running smoothly. This family-focused approach is pretty common in the recycling business, often growing from hard work and dedication.

Dale's Recycling isn't just about old cars. They're big into metal recycling of all kinds. Plus, they deal in used farm equipment, industrial equipment, and even some unique military surplus. So, whether you're fixing up a vintage tractor or just getting rid of some old metal, Dale's Recycling is a reliable stop in Milan. If you're exploring the broader landscape of salvage yards in Tennessee, you can find more information about Junkyards in Tennessee.

What Dale's Recycling Does

When you visit Dale's Recycling, you'll find a place that really knows its way around metal. They're a full-service recycling center, meaning they're there to help you every step of the way, making it easy even if you're new to scrap metal recycling. Their friendly and professional staff are ready to guide you.

Services You'll Find:

• Scrap Metal Recycling: They take just about any metal you can think of—steel, copper, aluminum, brass, and stainless steel. They offer good rates for these materials, priced by the pound for non-ferrous metals (like copper) and by 100 pounds for ferrous metals (like steel).
• Delivery and Pickup Services: Got a big pile of scrap? No problem! They offer free delivery and pickup of large open-top trailers and roll-off boxes. This is super handy for both small jobs and big businesses needing to manage large amounts of scrap.
• Environmentally Compliant: These folks play by the rules. Dale's Recycling follows all EPA guidelines, so you can be sure your old metal is being handled in a responsible, eco-friendly way.

While Dale's Recycling accepts complete vehicles for scrap metal recycling (and pays by weight!), they don't explicitly focus on buying or selling used cars as a regular car dealership might. Also, don't expect them to ship auto parts directly; their main gig is processing scrap metal.

Dale's Recycling Services At A Glance

Vehicle Types You Might Find (or Scrap!)

At Dale's Recycling, you'll see all sorts of vehicles coming and going as part of their scrap and recycling operations. They're ready to take everything from your old family sedan to much larger beasts.

What They Handle:

• Complete Vehicles: This includes your everyday cars and trucks, but they also handle bigger items like buses, combines (those big farm machines!), and dozers. Payment for these is usually based on their weight, because it's all about the metal.
• Large and Heavy Equipment: Yes, they mean business! If it's heavy industrial or agricultural equipment, they can likely take it. Think big names like John Deere combines or Caterpillar dozers.
• Parts and Inventory: While their main focus is on scrap, they do offer some parts for sale. This means some vehicles get stripped for usable pieces like engines, transmissions, and body panels before the rest heads to the shredder. You might find a hidden gem for your wife's car using junkyard parts!

You won't find a detailed list of every car model or year they have, as their primary business is recycling. So, most vehicles you see will probably be older models ready for their final ride. Newer cars might show up once in a blue moon, but they're not the norm for a scrap yard like this.

Typical Vehicles at Dale's Recycling

Popular Auto Parts to Hunt For

When you're at a salvage yard like Dale's Recycling, some parts are always hot commodities. People flock to these spots to save a buck, and certain used auto parts are just perfect for that. They're often cheaper than new ones and work just as well, especially if you know how to find high quality used auto parts.

Most Wanted Parts:

• Engines and Engine Bits: Need a whole new heart for your car? Engines (long blocks, short blocks) are popular, especially for older or classic rides where new ones cost an arm and a leg. Also, smaller bits like alternators, starters, and water pumps are often snapped up.
• Transmissions: Whether you shift yourself or let the car do the work, manual and automatic transmissions are frequently in demand for common vehicles.
• Body and Exterior Parts: Did you get into a fender bender? Parts like door panels, fenders, hoods, bumpers, and trunk lids are perfect for fixing up dents or rust. Headlights, taillights, and mirrors are also common finds.
• Interior Components: Spilled coffee all over your seat? You can often find decent seats, seat tracks, seat belts, or even a new (to you) radio or dashboard panel.
• Suspension and Steering: Parts like control arms, steering racks, and tie rods can be expensive new, so getting them used from a salvage yard is a smart move.
• Wheels: Looking for a spare rim or want to change up the look of your ride? Alloy wheels and steel rims are frequently available. (A friendly tip: new tires are usually your safest bet!)
• Electronics and Sensors: Those tricky computer brains like ECUs (Engine Control Units) or ABS modules can be super expensive new, making used ones a great find.

Parts to Think Twice About (or Avoid!)

Just like grandma always said, “some things are better new!” This goes for stuff like belts, brake pads, light bulbs, filters, and all fluids. For safety, new is the way to go. Also, while some airbags might be available, most folks prefer new ones for critical safety systems.

What About Prices and Service Area?

When it comes to exact auto part prices at Dale's Recycling, it's best to give them a direct call. Prices for used parts can change depending on what's available and how rare the part is. You can reach them at (731) 686-2500. Remember, they're big on scrap metal, farm equipment, and military surplus, so they might not have a detailed price list for every single car part online.

Who Comes to Dale's Recycling?

People come from all over West Tennessee to visit Dale's Recycling. If you're looking for used parts or recycling services, you might drive in from nearby towns and cities like:

• Jackson, TN: A bigger city with lots of car enthusiasts and folks looking for a deal.
• Humboldt, TN: A charming small town, likely with customers needing parts for their daily drivers.
• Paris, TN: Another community where folks appreciate saving money on repairs.
• Union City, TN: Always a possibility for customers hunting for affordable parts.
• Martin, TN: A smaller community, but still a source of savvy shoppers.

Finding the Right Part (Interchange System)

So, you know you need a part, but will it fit your specific car? At Dale's Recycling, which is a big player in scrap metal and used parts, they deal in everything from small engine parts to car and truck components.

While they don't advertise a fancy computer system that tells you exactly which part fits a dozen different car models (that's called an “interchange system”), their staff are usually your best bet. If you give them a call or visit, they'll likely use their experience or look up part numbers to help you figure out if a part from one vehicle will work on yours. It’s more of a personal touch than a digital one!

Just like any good place, they'll ask for a valid ID or driver's license when you make a transaction—it's the law!

Quick Look: Part Finding at Dale's Recycling

Warranty and Entry Fees

When buying used auto parts, a big question is always about the warranty. At Dale's Recycling in Milan, TN, specific warranty details for their used parts aren't listed publicly. Sometimes, places like these offer a short guarantee, but it’s always best to ask directly.

There's another company, Dale's Super Store (which might be related), that offers 1-3 year warranties on their refurbished parts. These warranties usually cover if the part just plain stops working, but not if you install it wrong or damage it. They're also pretty strict about how you make a warranty claim.

So, the golden rule here is: before you buy a used part, pick up the phone and ask about their warranty policy. You can call Dale's Recycling at (731) 686-2500 or shoot them an email at [email protected].

Do I Need to Pay to Get In?

Good news! There's no mention of an entry fee or cover charge to visit Dale's Recycling in Milan. They're there to help you recycle your metals or find parts, not charge you just to walk through the door. Just remember to bring your valid ID or driver's license, as that’s required by state law for transactions.

Tools for Your Treasure Hunt

If you're heading to Dale's Recycling to pull some used auto parts, remember it's not like going to the grocery store. You'll need to be prepared! Bringing the right tools is key to a successful salvage trip. Knowing what to bring to a junkyard can save you a lot of hassle.

Tools You Should Pack:

• Socket Set and Wrench Set: These are your best friends for unbolting just about anything. Make sure you have a good range of sizes.
• Pliers and Punches: Handy for gripping, bending, or knocking out stubborn bits.
• Screwdrivers: Both flathead and Phillips head will be useful for various screws.
• Tire Iron: If those wheels are calling your name.
• Air Compressor and Air Tools: If you're serious and have the setup, these can make pulling heavy parts much faster.
• Safety First Gear: Always, always, always bring gloves, safety glasses, and a face mask. You never know what sharp edges or dusty corners you might encounter. Your eyeballs and hands will thank you! For more general behavior tips, check out junkyard manners.

While some salvage yards might lend you a basic wrench, it's always safer to assume you'll need your own tools. Give Dale's Recycling a call beforehand if you're curious about what they might provide.

Cash for Your Junk Car

Got an old car that's seen better days and is ready for the great automotive beyond? Dale's Recycling in Milan, TN, is definitely a spot that can help. Located at 5 Concord-Cades Road, they're one of three locations in West Tennessee (the others are in McKenzie and Jackson).

Yes, Dale's Recycling does buy vehicles! They pay for complete vehicles based on their weight, often around $8.00 per 100 pounds. So, if your old ride is heavy, you could get a decent bit of cash for it! While they don't explicitly say they buy cars “in any condition,” that's pretty standard for scrap yards – they're buying it for its metal, not its showroom shine. If you're looking to sell your car online today, it's good to know your options!

To sell your vehicle or scrap metal, make sure you bring a valid ID or driver's license, as that's a state law requirement. Plus, they make it easy to drop off large amounts of scrap, offering free delivery and pick-up of trailers or roll-off boxes. They're also proud to be an environmentally compliant “Green” business, meaning they recycle responsibly.

Big News for Dale's Recycling!

Hold on to your lug nuts, because there's some exciting news from Dale's Recycling in Milan, TN! In September 2024, a major steel company called Gerdau Long Steel North America announced that they would be buying Dale's Recycling for a cool $60 million.

This deal includes seven recycling centers in Tennessee (yes, Milan is one of them!), one in Kentucky, and one in Missouri. Why the big purchase? Gerdau wants to make sure they have a steady supply of scrap metal for their steel mill in Jackson, Tennessee, which is less than 25 miles from the Milan facility. The Milan site is super important because it has its very own auto shredder, which can chew up old cars and other scrap like nobody's business! This means more metal gets recycled and less waste piles up. It’s a huge win for the circular economy!

This acquisition was expected to wrap up by the end of 2024.

Dale's Recycling Milan: Key Info (Post-Acquisition)

You can reach Dale's Recycling at (731) 686-2500 or (731) 686-2507.

Other Junkyards Near Milan, TN

If you're in the Milan area and looking for other spots to find parts or scrap a car, here are a few other options to consider:

• 45 Auto Salvage: Located at 176 Bradford Hwy, Milan, TN 38358. This is another reputable salvage yard right in Milan, focusing on buying and selling used auto parts. It's a great local alternative if you're comparing inventory.
• Junkyards Partnered with Kellys Junkyards: Kellys Junkyards works with various local partners in Milan, focusing on buying cars, trucks, and SUVs. They're usually more about getting rid of your old vehicle than finding parts.
• Highway 54 Salvage: While not in Milan proper, this spot at 128 Alamo Hwy, Trenton, TN 38382, is a well-established, family-owned yard (50 years in business!). They offer a wide range of used auto parts and are worth the short drive.
• West TN Pick And Pull: The exact location isn't specified, but this is a popular type of wrecking yard in West Tennessee where you can go in, grab your own tools, and pull the parts yourself. They often have huge inventories and even offer guarantees on mechanical and electrical parts. This style of yard is great if you enjoy getting your hands dirty and saving a bit more money.

Each of these places has its own flavor, so depending on if you want to pull parts yourself, buy them pre-pulled, or just get rid of a junk vehicle, you've got options around Milan!

Common Questions About Dale's Recycling

Here are some of the most common questions people ask about Dale's Recycling in Milan, TN, answered simply:

1. What kinds of stuff does Dale's Recycling take?

Mostly, they take scrap metal! This means things like steel, aluminum, copper, brass, and other metals you might find in old cars, appliances, or industrial equipment. If it's metal, they're probably interested.

2. How do I sell my scrap metal there?

You bring your metal to their yard. They'll weigh it for you and check what kind of metal it is. Then, they'll pay you based on the current market price for that type of metal. It’s pretty straightforward.

3. Can I walk around the yard to find parts myself?

Yes! You can walk around the yard to look at cars and parts. They even provide carts to help you move things around safely. If you have questions about specific cars or parts, just ask their staff.

4. What kind of big machines do they use?

They use heavy equipment like forklifts and cranes to move big piles of metal. And as you read, the Milan location even has a giant auto shredder to break down old cars and large scrap. Their team often operates these powerful machines to process the metal.

5. What's it like to work at Dale's Recycling?

People say the interview is quick and easy. They look for folks who can do the job. The company is a small to medium-sized operation. Pay raises might not happen very often, but it's a stable job if you're good with machines and hard work.

6. Do they care about safety and the environment?

Absolutely! Salvage yards like Dale's Recycling have to follow strict safety rules because they deal with heavy equipment and sometimes tricky materials. They also make sure to get rid of things like old oil and chemicals the right way, following rules to protect the environment. They're an EPA compliant “Green” business.

7. What if I have stuff that's not metal, like old paint or chemicals?

Dale's Recycling mostly deals with metals. They probably won't take hazardous things like old paint, aerosols, or household chemicals. For those items, you'll need to find a local waste management center or a special facility that handles hazardous waste to make sure it's disposed of safely and properly.