American Scrap Iron and Metal South Carolina In Cayce SC

About American Scrap Iron and Metal in Cayce, SC

Welcome to American Scrap Iron and Metal, your go-to place for used auto parts and metal recycling right here in Cayce, South Carolina! Located at 2256 Charleston Hwy, Cayce, SC 29033, this locally owned business boasts over 30 years of experience in the metal recycling industry. They're all about giving you competitive pricing for your scrap metals and unwanted vehicles. While specific details about who started the place aren't widely known, their long history shows they're a reliable spot for getting rid of your old metal junk and maybe even finding a gem or two for your ride.

If you're ever in need of a specific part for your trusty vehicle or just trying to clear out that old clunker taking up space, American Scrap Iron and Metal is a fantastic resource. They're a big part of the local community, helping with everything from recycling metal waste to putting some cash back in your pocket.

Services Offered at American Scrap Iron and Metal

American Scrap Iron and Metal isn't just any old junkyard; it's a full-service metal recycling facility. They focus on processing and recycling, so don't expect a “U-Pull It” style browse-and-buy experience. Instead, they’re the folks you call when you've got scrap, a junk car, or need a way to handle large loads of metal.

Key Services You'll Find:

• Metal Recycling: They are serious about buying and processing various metal materials. We're talking iron, copper, brass, aluminum, and stainless steel. They also handle more specialized items like radiators, electric motors, and batteries. If it's metal, chances are they'll take it!
• Car Crushing Services: Got an old wreck taking up space? They specialize in dismantling and recycling vehicles, which means they can handle your junk cars and turn them into useful scrap.
• Roll Off Container Services: For those bigger jobs, like cleaning out a garage or a workshop, they offer pick-up and drop-off services for large roll-off containers. It makes collecting and transporting heavy scrap a breeze.
• Pick-up Services: Need to get rid of a junk car or a really big pile of scrap? They offer convenient pick-up services to help you clear out the clutter.

Services Table:

Vehicle Types and Parts You Might Find (or Scrap)

American Scrap Iron and Metal primarily functions as a scrap metal recycling center and wrecking yard, meaning they accept all sorts of vehicles for scrap. While they focus on recycling, if you're looking to fix your wife's car using junkyard parts or your own, they process vehicles that often yield valuable components before they're crushed.

Common Vehicle Types Accepted:

• Junk Cars: This includes a wide range of vehicles, from sedans and SUVs to pickup trucks.
• Trucks & Vans: Larger vehicles are also readily accepted for their metal content.

They are primarily focused on buying and recycling scrap vehicles, not selling them as whole units. However, they are a major source for the raw materials that eventually become quality used parts in the automotive industry.

Popular Auto Parts Handled:

Based on what American Scrap Iron and Metal accepts for recycling, these are the components often processed:

• Transmissions: High-value items, often purchased for reuse or for their “core” value for remanufacturing.
• Radiators: Valued for their aluminum and copper content.
• Starter Motors & Alternators: Common electrical parts, salvaged for reuse or as cores.
• Electric Motors: From various vehicle systems (e.g., pumps, fans), harvested for scrap.
• Wheels and Rims: Especially undamaged aluminum or alloy rims that can be resold.
• Catalytic Converters: These are highly valuable due to the precious metals inside (platinum, palladium, rhodium).
• Batteries: Collected for lead and acid recycling.
• Wire and Insulated Wire: Stripped for their copper content.
• Junk Cars: Whole vehicles are purchased for part-out or crushing.

Important Note: While they handle these components, American Scrap Iron and Metal focuses on their recycling value. If you're looking to buy new parts, or even specific used parts for direct installation, it's best to call ahead and confirm availability. They are not a retail parts store in the traditional sense.

Understanding Pricing and Inventory at American Scrap Iron and Metal

When it comes to pricing, American Scrap Iron and Metal operates as a scrap yard, meaning their focus is on buying metals for recycling. Therefore, they don't usually list fixed prices for individual used auto parts as you might find at a traditional auto parts store.

What they do offer is competitive pricing for the scrap materials they purchase. For example, you might find general scrap prices for:

• Lead Batteries: Around $0.16 to $0.20 per pound.
• Electric Motors (Copper): Roughly $0.24 per pound.
• Aluminum Cans: About $0.48 to $0.57 per pound.

The best way to get a solid price for your junk car or a specific scrap load is to call them directly at 803-252-6565. They have experienced buyers ready to give you the most current pricing.

As for an inventory system for used auto parts, because they are primarily a scrap and recycling center, they don't typically maintain a detailed online or computerized inventory for individual used car parts like a dedicated auto salvage yard might. Their focus is on the efficient processing of vehicles and scrap metals. This means you won't be able to “browse our inventory” of specific car parts online. However, they may sell certain components over the counter if available, so always call first!

Location and Service Area

American Scrap Iron and Metal is conveniently located at 2256 Charleston Hwy, Cayce, SC 29033. This spot is super accessible, especially if you're coming from nearby major interstates like I-77 and I-26. This makes it a great spot for folks all over the Columbia Metropolitan area and even Florence to drop off their scrap.

People from several surrounding cities and towns often visit to sell their metal or inquire about services, including:

• West Columbia, SC
• Columbia, SC (the state capital!)
• Forest Acres, SC
• Lexington, SC
• Irmo, SC

Their central location ensures they serve a wide customer base looking to recycle metals or get some cash for junk cars.

No Auto Parts Interchange System, but Still Helpful!

Unlike some specialized auto salvage yards that might have a fancy interchange system to help you find parts that fit different car models, American Scrap Iron and Metal in Cayce doesn't offer a formal system like that. Their main game is recycling all sorts of metals, including parts from junk cars like radiators, rims, and transmissions.

Even without a dedicated interchange system, they can still be a valuable resource for finding used parts or even just figuring out what you can do with your old vehicle:

• Direct Inquiries: If you're looking for a specific part, your best bet is to call them. They might have what you need from vehicles they've processed.
• Networking: Being a big player in the local scrap metal scene, they might be able to point you to other places that do specialize in selling specific used car parts or have an online inventory.
• Referrals: Sometimes, the pros at the yard can connect you with other local businesses or online platforms that are all about used auto parts and their interchangeability.

So, while you might need to do a little extra legwork or use external resources like online part finders, don't count them out when you're on the hunt for that elusive component for your vehicle.

Warranty Information and What to Expect

When you're dealing with a salvage yard or scrap facility like American Scrap Iron and Metal, especially one focused on recycling rather than retail parts sales, specific warranty information on used parts can be a bit tricky to find. The info we have doesn't clearly state any warranties on individual parts they might sell. They are primarily a scrap buyer, not a used parts retailer.

However, it's worth knowing what warranties generally look like in the junkyard industry in South Carolina:

• Typical Durations: Some places might offer a 90-day limited warranty, while others might stretch to a six-month standard parts warranty.
• Extended Warranties: These are usually very specific to the seller and often involve an extra cost. You'd definitely need to ask directly.

The bottom line is, if you're hoping for a warranty on a part you might get from American Scrap Iron and Metal, it's always best to give them a call directly at 803-252-6565 and ask. This way, you get the most accurate and up-to-date information straight from the horse's mouth!

No Entry Fee and Pricing Policy

Good news for your wallet! There's no cover fee or entry fee to visit American Scrap Iron and Metal. Since they're a scrap metal recycling facility, their main goal is to buy scrap metals from you, not charge you to walk in. This means you can drive right in with your materials, get them weighed, and walk out with some cash.

While they pride themselves on offering competitive pricing for various types of scrap metals—like iron, copper, brass, and aluminum—specific details about special discounts or promotions aren't widely advertised. So, if you're curious about getting the absolute best price for your haul, it's always a smart move to contact them directly.

They’re open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM (always double-check these hours with them, as they can sometimes vary slightly). This gives you plenty of time to bring your scrap in and chat with their experienced buyers.

Tools and Equipment for a Junkyard Visit

When you head out to a junkyard like American Scrap Iron and Metal to pull parts, being prepared is key. While American Scrap Iron and Metal is more of a recycling center than a “U-Pull It” yard where you'd be pulling parts yourself, understanding what tools are usually needed for such tasks is helpful. Remember to prioritize safety tips for junkyard visits!

What to Bring (if you were pulling parts yourself):

• Basic Hand Tools: A good set of wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, pliers, and a hammer are your bread and butter for common tasks.
• Specialized Tools: For bigger jobs like an engine or transmission, you might need a torque wrench, a pry bar, or even a specific tool for a certain type of bolt.
• Safety Gear: Always wear sturdy gloves, safety glasses, and a face mask to protect yourself. Work boots are also a must.
• Vehicle-Specific Tools: If you're after something big, like a transmission, a transmission jack might be needed.

What American Scrap Iron and Metal Might Provide (for their operations):

Since American Scrap Iron and Metal is a full-service recycling facility, they use industrial-grade equipment for their operations:

• Crushers: For compacting entire vehicles.
• Shears: To cut large metal pieces into smaller, more manageable sizes.
• Magnets and Grapples: For lifting and sorting different types of metal quickly and safely.
• Industrial Scales: To accurately weigh the scrap metal they buy and sell.

It's important to note that these are tools for their operations, not typically for customer use. Always call ahead if you have specific questions about what equipment might be accessible or allowed for your visit.

Get Cash for Your Junk Car!

Looking to turn that old clunker into some quick money? American Scrap Iron and Metal is your spot for cash for junk cars in Cayce, SC! They are experts in the vehicle recycling business and make the process easy and straightforward.

How They Handle Junk Cars:

• Pick-up Service: They offer a convenient pick-up service for your junk car or any large scrap loads you need to get rid of. This means you don't have to worry about how to transport that non-running vehicle to them.
• Competitive Pricing: While they don't list exact amounts online (because prices for scrap metal change daily), they are known for offering competitive pricing for your vehicle's metal content. You're selling your car for its scrap value, so the heavier and more metal it has, the more cash you're likely to get.
• Any Condition Accepted: Since they're buying for recycling, the condition of your vehicle usually doesn't matter much. Whether it's been in a wreck, doesn't run, or is just plain old, they're likely to take it!

Ready to turn that old ride into some spendable cash? Give them a call at 803-252-6565 to get a quote for your junk car. It's a great way to sell your car and free up some space!

News and Notable Information

American Scrap Iron and Metal has been in the news for a few reasons that highlight the complexities of the automotive industry and recycling:

• Owner Arrest: Timothy Dickensheets, one of the owners, was arrested in connection with charges related to the handling of catalytic converters. This incident sparked discussions about the state's catalytic converter laws.
• Catalytic Converter Law Debate: Following the arrest, there's been talk among legislators in South Carolina about potentially changing the laws surrounding catalytic converter sales, which are valuable due to their precious metal content (platinum, palladium, rhodium).
• Nearby Fire Incidents: While there haven't been specific reports of fires at American Scrap Iron and Metal itself, there was a notable fire at a nearby scrap metal plant in Cayce in 2017, possibly caused by a car battery. Other local scrap yards have also seen fires, reminding everyone about the potential hazards in the scrap business.

These events show that being a salvage yard or scrap yard isn't always smooth sailing, and there are important regulations and safety measures involved in handling and recycling materials.

This video provides some general insight into the process and operations of a scrap yard, which can be similar to what American Scrap Iron and Metal handles.

Other Junkyards in Cayce, SC

When you're on the hunt for a junkyard or salvage yard in Cayce, SC, you'll quickly find that American Scrap Iron and Metal is the primary and most comprehensive facility in the immediate area. Located at 2256 Charleston Hwy, Cayce, SC 29033, this business stands out for its wide range of services.

After checking around, it seems there aren't other major independent junkyards in Cayce, SC that offer the same full suite of services, like extensive metal recycling, car crushing, and large scrap pick-up. Some listings might refer to “American Converter & Core” at the same address, but it's part of the same operation, focusing on specific valuable materials like catalytic converters.

So, if you're in Cayce and looking to sell scrap metal, dispose of a junk car, or inquire about recycled materials, American Scrap Iron and Metal is likely your best bet for local service.

Common Questions About American Scrap Iron and Metal

1. What types of materials does American Scrap Iron and Metal accept for recycling?

They accept a vast array of materials! This includes common metals like iron, copper, brass, aluminum, and stainless steel. They also take radiators, rims, transmissions, transformers, cores, electric motors, lead, starters, alternators, batteries, steel catalytic converters, wire, insulated wire, e-scrap (like computers and circuit boards), and even white goods (large appliances such as refrigerators, freezers, ovens, washers, and dryers).

2. What services does American Scrap Iron and Metal offer beyond scrap metal recycling?

Beyond just buying scrap metal, they provide roll-off container services for big loads, car crushing services for those old clunkers, and convenient pick-up services for both junk cars and large scrap collections. It’s a full-service operation to help you manage your scrap.

3. What are the operating hours of American Scrap Iron and Metal in Cayce, SC?

Their hours are typically:

• Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
• Saturday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
• Sunday: Closed

It’s always a good idea to give them a quick call if you’re planning a visit, just in case there are any holiday or special hour changes.

4. How does American Scrap Iron and Metal handle large scrap loads or junk cars?

For large scrap loads or a junk car, they offer a convenient pick-up service directly from your location. This saves you the hassle of figuring out transportation. Plus, they have robust car crushing services on-site to efficiently process vehicles into raw metal for recycling.

5. What tools or equipment might American Scrap Iron and Metal or similar junkyards use?

Facilities like this use heavy-duty equipment to get the job done. This includes powerful crushers for vehicles, large magnetic separators to sort metals, balers and compactors to condense scrap, and big forklifts or scrap handlers to move heavy materials. They also use industrial-grade scales for accurate weighing and pricing.

6. How does one contact American Scrap Iron and Metal for inquiries or services?

The best way to reach them is by phone at 803-252-6565. You can also visit them in person at 2256 Charleston Hwy, Cayce, SC 29033. They might also be found on local business directories like Google Business or Facebook.

7. What is the reputation of American Scrap Iron and Metal in terms of customer service and ratings?

American Scrap Iron and Metal holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), which is a strong indicator of customer satisfaction and reliability, even though they aren't directly BBB accredited. This suggests they are a trustworthy establishment in the metal recycling and salvage yards in South Carolina industry.