Coffman's Metals In Birch River WV

Looking for a place to recycle metals or find some unique items in West Virginia? Let's take a closer look at Coffman's Metals, a long-standing, family-owned business located at 161 Birch River Rd, Birch River, WV 26610. It's not your typical “U-pull-it” junkyard for specific used auto parts, but it's a big deal in the recycling facility world.

About Coffman's Metals: A Family Legacy in Recycling

The story of Coffman's Metals goes way back to 1930, when Guy Coffman, the founder, started out buying fur and roots in Nicholas County, Salvage yards in West Virginia. He was known as a pioneer among the old-time country buyers. Fast forward to the 1960s, and Guy shifted focus to recycling non-ferrous metals like aluminum, copper, and brass. Later, he also started buying iron and steel.

This business stayed all in the family. By the 1970s, Guy's grandson, Tony Coffman, started working there while still in school. After graduating, Tony became a full-time employee and soon a full partner. When Guy Coffman passed away in 1987, Tony took over, building Coffman's Metals into one of West Virginia's top recycling centers. Today, Tony Coffman is still the proud owner, keeping the family legacy alive.

Coffman's Metals, Birch River, WV – Quick Facts

What Services Does Coffman's Metals Offer?

Coffman's Metals in Birch River, WV, is a go-to place if you're looking to recycle metal. They are a family-owned business focused on being a comprehensive recycling facility for both ferrous and non-ferrous metals. This means they're ready to help everyone, from individuals with a small pile of scrap to big industrial companies.

Detailed Services Provided

Buying and Selling Vehicles: Scrap vs. Resale

While Coffman's Metals does purchase automobiles, it's important to know their focus. They buy vehicles for recycling purposes, meaning they're looking for the metal content, not for resale as a used car. If you've got an old clunker that's seen better days, they might take it for scrap. However, they don't buy or sell working used cars or trucks for you to drive home.

Shipping Parts: Get Your Scrap to Them

If you're wondering if Coffman's Metals ships parts, the answer is no. Their main job is buying and processing scrap metals and roots/herbs right there at their facility in Birch River, WV. So, if you've got scrap to sell, you'll need to bring it to them.

Vehicle Types Accepted for Recycling

At Coffman's Metals, the vehicles you'll find are mostly those brought in for scrap or recycling. We're talking about older, damaged, or end-of-life cars and light trucks – not the kind you'd buy to drive off the lot. They're looking for the metal, not a perfectly running vehicle.

When you bring in a vehicle, they ask that you remove all tires, spare tires, and gas tanks before they process it. This tells you they're taking the vehicles apart for their metal content, not keeping them whole. They focus on all types of ferrous and non-ferrous metals from vehicles, including auto radiators, transmissions, engines, batteries, and catalytic converters. So, if you're looking to get rid of a beat-up old ride, they can help you turn it into cash for its metal.

Popular Auto Parts: What's Recycled and What's Not for Sale

At Coffman’s Metals, like many good recycling yards, they primarily focus on taking in metal for scrap. This isn't your typical u-pull junkyard where you can just grab any part you need off an old car. However, the metal from certain automotive parts is highly valued for its material.

Commonly Processed Auto Parts (Primarily for Scrap)

• Wheels and Engine Blocks: They buy steel wheels and aluminum wheels for scrap. Iron or aluminum engine blocks are also bought as cores for rebuilds or as scrap metal.
• Transmissions: Transmission cases are listed as a non-ferrous item for scrap. While usually processed for metal, some might be available as cores if you ask.
• Starters and Alternators: These are purchased for their metal content, and they are common items sought by DIY mechanics.
• Batteries: Lead-acid auto/industrial batteries are bought for recycling. You won't typically find functional used ones for sale here due to safety and quick depletion.
• Radiators: Copper/brass radiators are purchased for their metal content. While some folks look for used ones, Coffman’s Metals mostly processes them as scrap.
• Body Panels: Things like sheet metal, doors, fenders, and hoods are usually processed as scrap. If a vehicle is being parted out briefly before crushing, some might be salvaged.
• Catalytic Converters: These are bought for the precious metals inside them, but they are rarely resold as used parts due to rules and theft concerns.

Parts You Won't Find for Resale Here

Coffman’s Metals is a metal recycling facility, not a retail store for used auto parts. This means you won't find:

• Belts, bulbs, brake pads, filters, and other consumables: They don't buy or sell these.
• Combustible tanks (gasoline, propane, etc.): These are not accepted for scrap or resale for safety reasons.
• Tires: They do not accept tires at all.
• Fluids: All fluids must be drained from vehicles before they are accepted for scrap.

Summary of Auto Part Availability at Coffman's Metals

Most Recent Auto Parts Prices

When it comes to specific pricing for used auto parts at Coffman's Metals, the information online is limited because their main focus is on scrap metal pricing, not selling individual parts. They deal in items like auto radiators (CU/Brass), starters, alternators, and catalytic converters (both domestic and foreign) for their metal value.

For instance, general scrap metal prices in West Virginia can vary, and for certain items like aluminum starters, the price might be around $0.20 per pound. But remember, these are scrap prices, not the cost to buy a working part.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing for your scrap metal, your best bet is to contact Coffman's Metals directly. Give them a call at 304-649-5803 or simply visit their facility at 161 Birch River Road, Birch River, WV 26610. They'll be happy to give you a quote for your materials.

Service Area: Who Visits Coffman's Metals?

Folks come from all over to bring their scrap metal and other items to Coffman's Metals. While it's located in Birch River, WV, its reputation as a reliable recycling center draws customers from nearby towns and even larger cities looking to sell their materials.

You might find customers traveling from places like:

• Charleston, WV: The state capital, a bit of a drive, but worth it for specialized recycling needs or larger loads.
• Beckley, WV: A major city in southern West Virginia, providing a steady stream of individual and industrial clients.
• Richwood, WV: A closer town, whose residents might find it convenient for their recycling needs.
• Webster Springs, WV: Another nearby community, likely relying on local services like Coffman's Metals.
• Clarksburg, WV: A larger city that could send customers interested in their comprehensive metal recycling services.

These areas show that Coffman's Metals serves a significant chunk of the region, helping communities recycle and dispose of metals responsibly.

Interchange System: Not What You'd Expect Here

If you're looking for a place that uses an automotive parts interchange system to help you find a part that fits different models, Coffman’s Metals LLC isn't that kind of place. Their main business is about processing and recycling scrap metals. They don't typically help customers cross-reference part numbers or figure out if a part from one vehicle will fit another.

They do handle a lot of vehicle components as scrap, like starters, alternators, and radiators. But these items are bought for their metal content, not usually sold as functional replacement parts that you'd need to match to a specific make and model. If you're on the hunt for specific OEM parts or need compatibility help, you'll want to check out traditional auto salvage yards or dedicated used auto parts stores.

Warranty Information: No Used Parts, No Warranty

It's important to understand that Coffman's Metals LLC in Birch River, WV, is a metal recycling and purchasing facility. They don't sell used automotive parts for you to put into your car. Because they don't sell used parts, they don't offer any warranties on used parts.

Their main gig is buying scrap metals (like aluminum, copper, brass, and vehicle components) from individuals and industrial clients. When you sell them scrap, they have rules about how you prepare the items (like draining fluids), and you need to show identification. This is all part of their commitment to proper vehicle recycling and following state and federal rules. So, if you're looking for a used auto parts warranty, this isn't the place. You'll need to find a seller that specializes in resale.

Entry Fee: Just Bring Your Scrap!

Good news! There's no talk of any cover fee or entry fee to visit Coffman's Metals in Birch River, WV. This facility is set up as a place where you bring your scrap metals to sell, not like a store where you pay to get in.

They focus on buying ferrous and non-ferrous metals from both individual and industrial recyclers. While they have guidelines for preparing your items (like taking freon out of old fridges or draining water heaters), there's no mention of a fee just to walk onto the property for these services.

As for special discounts, there's no specific info available. Your best bet for any questions about pricing or possible discounts is to reach out to them directly. You can call them at 304-649-5803 or send an email to [email protected].

Tools and Equipment Needed to Pull Used Auto Parts? Not Here!

If you're used to going to a “U-Pull-It” junkyard where you bring your own tools to yank out used auto parts, you'll find Coffman's Metals operates differently. Since they are primarily a metal recycling facility, they don't have cars sitting around for you to dismantle. Their focus is on processing the metal, not selling individual used parts that you would need to pull yourself.

Therefore, you won't need to bring a socket set, pliers, wrenches, tire irons, or heavy cutting tools for pulling parts from cars at Coffman's Metals. What they do provide are certified weighing scales to measure the scrap metal you bring in, and a facility where you can drop off your materials for recycling.

However, if you're prepping a junk car or its parts to sell to them as scrap, you might need your own tools to remove tires, drain fluids, or separate different types of metal before you arrive. Always remember to wear safety gear like gloves and safety glasses when handling any kind of scrap metal. For more tips on what to bring to a yard that *does* allow self-service, check out our guide on what to bring to a junkyard.

Cash for Junk Cars: How Coffman's Metals Buys

If you're looking to get “cash for junk cars,” it's important to clarify what Coffman's Metals does. They are a dedicated scrap metal and recycling center, not a dealership buying used cars for resale.

What They Buy:

• Vehicle Components: They actively purchase various automotive parts and materials for their metal content. This includes aluminum wheels, auto radiators, batteries, electric motors, starters, alternators, and catalytic converters. So, if you've got these parts stripped from an old car, you can definitely get cash for them.
• Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Metals: Their main focus is on buying all kinds of scrap metal, like iron, steel, aluminum, copper, and brass.

Whole Junk Cars:

While they accept automobiles as a type of ferrous metal, their public information doesn't explicitly state that they offer “cash for whole, intact junk cars” as a primary service. It's more about the metal value of the vehicle. This implies that they might prefer vehicles to be prepped (like having tires and gas tanks removed) or they are more geared towards accepting vehicles for shredding rather than buying them as salvageable units.

If you have a complete junk car you want to get rid of, it's always best to call Coffman's Metals directly at 304-649-5803. They can tell you their current policy and what condition the vehicle needs to be in. Expect them to give you a price based on the weight and type of metal, rather than the car's condition as a functioning vehicle. If you're trying to sell your car, make sure you understand the difference between selling for parts vs. selling for scrap.

News and Notable Information

While there isn't a lot of breaking news about Coffman’s Metals, their long history and ongoing operations speak volumes. They've been a staple in the Birch River community for over 80 years!

Here's what stands out about this respected business:

• A Pillar of the Community: Since 1930, Coffman's Metals has been serving West Virginia, particularly Nicholas County. They've grown from buying fur and roots to becoming a major scrap metal processor, serving both everyday folks and big industrial clients. They're a true local success story, deeply embedded in the local economy.
• Surviving Challenges: In 2016, the Birch River area faced significant flooding. While it impacted many local businesses, Coffman Metals, like many others, showed resilience. Their long history means they've seen a lot and continue to adapt.
• Unique Business Model: Beyond typical scrap metal operations, Coffman's Metals continues the tradition of buying medicinal roots and herbs. This unique service highlights their connection to the region's historical economy and natural resources.
• Modern Operations: They use industrial-grade equipment for sorting, cutting, and compacting scrap metal, ensuring efficient and responsible recycling. They even offer scrap metal pickup services for businesses and individuals, making it easier for everyone to recycle.

This video shows some heavy equipment in action, which is a common sight at larger scrap yards like Coffman's Metals, demonstrating their capability to handle large volumes of material.

Other Junkyards and Salvage Yards in the Area

While Coffman's Metals is a top-notch metal recycling facility in Birch River, WV, it's not a traditional pick-and-pull junkyard for used auto parts. If you're looking for specific car parts from an old vehicle, you might need to broaden your search.

The closest similar business might be:

• Elk Valley Salvage, L.L.C.: Located in Sutton, WV, this is a more traditional salvage yard. It operates Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM. While not in Birch River itself, it's an option for those looking for used car parts.

For other local options, you might find smaller “junk dealers” in nearby areas like Little Birch, Erbacon, Tioga, Dille, and Widen. However, specific details for these smaller operations are usually harder to find online.

Remember, Coffman's Metals is known for its extensive experience in metal recycling and unique services like buying roots and herbs, setting it apart from typical wrecking yards. Always call ahead to any facility to confirm their services and inventory before making the trip.

Common Questions About Coffman’s Metals

1. What types of metals does Coffman’s Metals buy?

Coffman’s Metals buys both ferrous (iron and steel) and non-ferrous metals. This includes things like:

• Ferrous Metals: #1 & #2 Plate & Structural Steel, #1 & #2 Cast Iron and Pipe, #1 & #2 Heavy Steel, Sheet Iron, Tin, Appliances, and Automobiles (remember, they're for scrap).
• Non-Ferrous Metals: Clean aluminum (cans, sheet, cast, siding, wheels, radiators), brass (yellow, red, bronze), copper (all grades), stainless steel, lead, auto and industrial batteries (lead acid only), electric motors, starters, alternators, and catalytic converters. Basically, if it's metal and they can recycle it, they're interested!

2. What items are NOT accepted at Coffman’s Metals?

To keep things safe and clean, Coffman’s Metals does NOT accept certain items:

• Fence, wire, or cable.
• Combustible tanks (like propane, freon, oxygen, acetylene, or gasoline tanks). These are a big no-no for safety.
• Microwaves, televisions, computers, or light ballasts.
• Tires. You must remove them from any vehicle you bring in for scrap.
• Other stuff like cardboard, glass, or paper.

It's always a good idea to properly drain fluids from motors and appliances and remove gas tanks from automobiles before you bring them in.

3. What regulations do I need to be aware of when selling scrap metal?

Coffman’s Metals follows all state and federal rules for buying scrap metal. The most important thing for you to remember is that you'll need to show a valid ID when you sell scrap. This helps make sure everything is on the up-and-up and helps prevent the sale of stolen goods. If you're ever unsure about what you can sell, just give them a call!

4. What tools and equipment does Coffman’s Metals use to process metals?

While they don't share a specific list, you can bet a major scrap yard like Coffman's Metals uses some serious machinery to get the job done. This usually includes:

• Certified scales: For weighing everything from small handfuls to full truckloads.
• Heavy equipment: Like forklifts, front-end loaders, and cranes to move huge piles of metal.
• Metal cutting tools: Think torches, plasma cutters, and huge shears to chop up big pieces.
• Giant magnets: To separate iron and steel from other metals.
• Hydraulic presses: To smash and compact scrap into neat blocks.
• Conveyor belts and sorting lines: To help process and sort different types of metal quickly.

These tools help them handle a lot of metal efficiently and safely.

5. What are the business hours at Coffman’s Metals in Birch River, WV?

You can visit Coffman’s Metals during these hours:

• Monday through Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Saturday: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
• Sunday: Closed

6. How do I prepare my scrap metal for sale at Coffman’s Metals?

Prepping your scrap correctly can make your visit faster and sometimes even get you a better price!

• For Ferrous Metals: If you're bringing in old appliances or cars, make sure to remove things like freon from refrigerators, drain water heaters, and properly drain all fluids (oil, gas) from motors and transmissions. For automobiles, remember to take out all tires, spare tires, and gas tanks.
• For Non-Ferrous Metals: The cleaner the better! Make sure your aluminum cans are empty and free of trash. It also helps to separate different types of metal (like keeping copper separate from brass) to ensure you get the best possible pricing.

7. What should I expect when I arrive at Coffman’s Metals to sell scrap?

When you roll up to Coffman’s Metals, here’s generally what happens:

• Arrival: Follow the signs to the scales area.
• Weigh-In: Drive your vehicle onto the big, certified drive-thru scales. You'll see the weight on a digital readout. They have a speaker system for easy chatter with the staff. Don't worry, there's plenty of room for even big trucks and trailers to turn around.
• Unloading: Staff will guide you on where to unload your scrap.
• Payment: Once your scrap is weighed and sorted, you'll get your money based on the current rates. New customers will find the staff helpful and ready to walk them through the process. It's usually a smooth experience, helping you get your cash and get back on the road.