Fort Iron & Metal In Detroit MI

Fort Iron & Metal: Your Go-To Scrap Yard in Detroit, MI

Looking to clean up some old metal or find a new home for that retired ride? Fort Iron & Metal is a dedicated scrap yard and metal recycling facility located right in the heart of Detroit, Michigan. Situated at 9607 Dearborn St, Detroit, MI 48209, this business plays a key role in the automotive industry's recycling efforts in the region.

About Fort Iron & Metal

While the exact establishment year and original founders of Fort Iron & Metal aren't widely publicized, their presence in Detroit speaks volumes about the city's strong industrial roots. Detroit has a long history tied to steel and the automotive industry, with many metal recycling businesses operating for decades, helping to process the vast amounts of metal waste generated. Think of them as the unsung heroes of recycling, making sure old metal gets a new life, often right here in the Salvage yards in Michigan.

Fort Iron & Metal focuses on buying and processing various metals, keeping the Detroit area clean and contributing to a healthier environment. They're more about the “recycling” part of the scrap business than the “pick-your-own-parts” kind of junkyard. So, if you're looking to offload some serious metal, they're the folks to talk to!

Services Offered by Fort Iron & Metal

Fort Iron & Metal is a robust scrap metal facility, primarily focusing on purchasing and processing a wide range of metals. They're all about giving old materials a new purpose. Here’s a closer look at what they offer:

Service Type	Details
Scrap Metal Purchasing	They are big buyers of various metals, including common ones like copper, aluminum, and brass. They also accept items like electric motors and a variety of appliances that contain valuable metals. This is where you can bring your old metal odds and ends.
Junkyard & Recycling Operations	As a dedicated junkyard, they handle the processing and recycling of vehicles and other metal waste. Their operations focus on breaking down materials for their raw metal components.
Full-Service Metal Processing	Fort Iron & Metal offers full-service dismantling and recycling. This means they handle the heavy lifting and processing of scrap materials themselves. It's not a “U-Pull-It” type of place for car parts; rather, they manage the entire recycling stream from start to finish.
No Direct Used Car or Part Sales	It's important to know that Fort Iron & Metal does not buy or sell used cars directly to the public, nor do they sell individual used parts. Their main gig is processing and recycling metals from vehicles and other sources.
No Part Shipping	Since their primary focus is on recycling and processing raw scrap metal, they do not offer shipping services for individual parts.

They're open Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and on Saturdays from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM. They are closed on Sundays. For convenience, they accept credit and debit cards for transactions.

Fort Iron & Metal in Action!

Want to see what goes on at a place like Fort Iron & Metal? Check out this video to get a glimpse into the world of metal recycling and how operations like theirs contribute to a greener planet.

Vehicle Types Processed at Fort Iron & Metal

At Fort Iron & Metal, you won't find a showroom of shiny used cars. Instead, their yard is filled with vehicles that have reached the end of their road, ready to be recycled. They focus on turning metal from old clunkers into something useful again. So, if you're looking for a good used car to drive, this isn't the spot. But if you've got an old vehicle ready for its next life, they're ready to help.

Vehicle Type	Typical Condition	Makes/Models Examples	Availability of Late-Model Vehicles
Sedans	Damaged, Salvaged, Non-running	Ford Fusion, Chevy Malibu, Honda Civic, Toyota Camry	Rare (if present, for scrap only)
Trucks/SUVs	Out-of-service, Wrecked, Totaled	Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, Dodge Ram, Jeep Grand Cherokee	Rare (processed for metal)
Vans/Minivans	Damaged, Salvaged, End-of-life	Dodge Grand Caravan, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna	Rare (destined for scrap)
Luxury/Specialty	Salvaged, Heavily Damaged	Cadillac, Lincoln, BMW, Mercedes-Benz	Very Rare (usually stripped for valuable metals)

Essentially, any vehicle that is an end-of-life vehicle (ELV), damaged beyond repair, or simply uneconomical to fix, finds its way here. The focus is on metal recovery, not on selling drivable cars.

Popular Auto Parts Processed for Recycling

While Fort Iron & Metal doesn't sell individual auto parts, their operations involve processing many components that other salvage yards might sell. These are the parts that get broken down for their valuable metals:

• Engines and Engine Components: The whole engine block, or major components like alternators, starters, and water pumps. These are heavy and contain significant amounts of metal.
• Transmissions: Both automatic and manual transmissions, along with transfer cases from all-wheel or four-wheel drive vehicles.
• Body Panels and Exterior Parts: Doors, fenders, hoods, trunk lids, and bumpers – basically, the whole “skin” of the car. They're processed for their sheet metal.
• Wheels and Tires: The metal wheels are recycled, while tires might be separated for other uses.
• Miscellaneous Components: Things like radiators and condensers (important for cooling), and especially catalytic converters (which contain precious metals).

It’s a different game than finding an OEM part for your personal repair, but it’s crucial for the recycling side of the automotive industry.

Recent Scrap Metal Pricing in Detroit

If you're thinking about selling scrap metal to Fort Iron & Metal, knowing the current market prices can help you understand how much money you might get. Keep in mind that these prices are for general scrap metal and can change based on the market and the specific condition of your materials. It's always best to call them directly for the most up-to-date pricing for your specific items.

Material	Average Price (USD)	Unit	Price Date
Busheling	300	/GT	2025-04-30
Drums and Rotors	280	/GT	2025-04-30
Motor Blocks Scrap	280	/GT	2025-04-30
P&S Unprepared Scrap	150	/GT	2025-04-30
Plate & Structural Prepared	200	/GT	2025-04-30
Rebar	120	/NT	2025-04-30
Zinc Scrap	0.4	/LB	2025-04-30

These prices give you a rough idea, but remember, the value of your scrap depends on cleanliness, quantity, and market demand.

Service Area: Who Can Reach Fort Iron & Metal?

Fort Iron & Metal serves a broad community around its Detroit location. Customers looking to recycle metal from nearby cities and towns often visit this facility. Here are some of the areas where customers typically come from:

• Melvindale: A neighboring city known for its industrial leanings, providing a steady stream of scrap materials.
• Ecorse: Another close-by city, often benefiting from the convenience of Fort Iron & Metal's location.
• River Rouge: This area frequently interacts with Detroit's industrial sector and uses Fort Iron & Metal for metal recycling.
• Lincoln Park: Residents and businesses here find the yard a practical option for their metal recycling needs.
• Taylor: A larger suburb in the Detroit area, contributing a good portion of the facility's clientele.

If you're in or around these areas and have scrap metal, Fort Iron & Metal is a convenient stop.

Auto Parts Interchange System

For those hoping to find a specific part that fits multiple models, Fort Iron & Metal does not provide an auto parts interchange system. This is because they operate as a pure scrap metal recycler, not a retail seller of used auto parts.

If you're trying to figure out if a part from one vehicle will work in another, you'll need to rely on external resources. Many online databases and automotive parts suppliers offer cross-reference tools to help you identify compatible components. Websites like “The Wrench Monkey” are examples of resources that can help with this kind of research. For specific automotive needs, a traditional used auto parts store or a different type of salvage yard that specializes in retail sales would be a better fit.

Warranty Information

Since Fort Iron & Metal primarily operates as a scrap metal recycler and does not sell individual used auto parts, they typically do not offer warranties on parts. Their business model focuses on processing commercial and industrial scrap for raw material use, not on providing components for repair shops or individual consumers. This means you won't get a warranty on a specific mirror or AC compressor from them.

If you're looking for used parts that come with some sort of guarantee, you'll need to seek out a different kind of salvage yard or a dedicated used auto parts retailer that explicitly states their warranty policy.

Tools and Equipment for Pulling Used Auto Parts

Listen up, gearheads! This is important: Fort Iron & Metal does not allow the public to pull parts from vehicles on their premises. They are a scrap processing facility, not a self-service “U-Pull-It” wrecking yard. So, leave your wrench sets at home if you're visiting this particular yard.

However, if you're heading to a different junkyard near you that does allow you to pull parts, here's a general idea of the tools you'd want to bring:

• Basic Hand Tools: A good set of pliers, screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips), and a socket set with various sizes are your bread and butter. An adjustable wrench is also super handy.
• Cutting Tools: For wires or tough-to-remove bits, a sturdy wire cutter or even a hacksaw can be a lifesaver.
• Safety First: Always bring gloves, safety glasses, and sturdy boots. You might even want a mask for dusty conditions. Remember your junkyard safety tips!
• Lifting Gear (if allowed): If you're going for an engine or transmission, a jack and jack stands are crucial, but many self-service yards have restrictions on bringing these in. Always check their rules first!

For Fort Iron & Metal, their own equipment includes heavy machinery like crushers, magnetic separators, and large shears to process the metal they receive from commercial and industrial sources. Their tools are for heavy-duty recycling, not for helping you snag a new fender.

Cash for Junk Cars

If you're looking to sell your old ride for some quick cash, Fort Iron & Metal primarily focuses on purchasing scrap metals like copper, aluminum, and brass, as well as electric motors and appliances. While they operate as a junkyard that handles and processes junk vehicles, it's not explicitly stated that they buy junk cars directly from the general public for their salvageable components, like some dedicated “cash for cars” services. They're more about the raw metal value.

If your goal is to sell your car for cash, especially if it's no longer running, you might find other services in Detroit that specialize in buying junk cars in any condition and often offer free towing. These companies are typically more focused on getting you a good price for your entire vehicle, even if it's a complete wreck.

For a direct answer regarding your specific junk car, it's always best to call Fort Iron & Metal directly to inquire about their policies on buying vehicles from individuals. They might tell you to contact a company that buys and sells whole vehicles to feed their scrap stream.

News and Notable Information

Fort Iron & Metal isn't just another scrap yard; they've been in the news for a few reasons that highlight the complexities of industrial operations in urban areas. This is where metal recycling meets local community concerns.

• Ground Swelling and Environmental Impact: In 2021, Fort Iron & Metal was linked to ground swelling incidents in Southwest Detroit and River Rouge. This was reportedly due to the immense weight of mill scale (a byproduct of steelmaking) moved to one of their facilities, causing ground buckling. Studies near the facility have also found high levels of iron in road dust and sediment, raising concerns about environmental impact and public health, often exceeding guidelines.
• Legal Actions: The company has faced legal attention, including a complaint filed by CSX Transportation, Inc. in April 2025. These legal matters often revolve around environmental compliance and operational impact on nearby areas.

These instances highlight how companies like Fort Iron & Metal, while vital for recycling, also need to manage their operations carefully to ensure they are good neighbors in the community.

Other Junkyards Nearby

If Fort Iron & Metal isn't exactly what you're looking for (especially if you want to pull your own parts!), Detroit has other options. Remember, each junkyard or salvage yard has its own way of doing things:

• Ryan's Pick-a-Part: This is a true “U-Pull-It” auto salvage yard. You bring your own tools, and you pull the parts yourself. They often have a large inventory of thousands of vehicles and even offer free towing if you're looking to sell your vehicle.
• Rouge Auto Parts: Another local junkyard in Detroit. While specific details on their services might vary, they are another option for those on the hunt for used auto parts.

Always call ahead to any junkyard near you to confirm their services, hours, and whether they allow customers to pull their own parts, as policies can differ widely.

Common Questions About Scrap Yards Like Fort Iron & Metal

Here are some frequently asked questions that people have about metal recycling facilities like Fort Iron & Metal:

• What Types of Metals or Items Can I Bring to Fort Iron & Metal?
  Fort Iron & Metal is all about metal! They buy various metals, including ferrous (like iron and steel, often found in old junk cars and appliances) and non-ferrous metals (like copper, aluminum, and brass from wiring, cans, and pipes). They typically accept automotive scrap (parts, radiators, catalytic converters), industrial metals, and household items. The types and current pricing can vary, so it's always best to call ahead.
• What Tools and Equipment Do Junkyards Like Fort Iron & Metal Use?
  These places are like giant metal processing factories! They use heavy machinery such as forklifts, loaders, and cranes to move huge piles of metal. For breaking down and sorting, they use powerful cutting tools (like torches and shears), magnetic separators for different metal types, and massive car crushers and balers to compact vehicles and scrap into manageable blocks. These tools help them efficiently recycle vast amounts of metal.
• How Do I Prepare My Metal for Sale?
  To get the best value, you should try to “clean” your metal. This means removing contaminants like plastic, rubber, or wood, which can reduce the metal's weight and purity. It's also smart to separate different types of metals (e.g., copper from aluminum) if you have a mixed load, as different metals have different values. For very large items, breaking them down might be helpful, but ask the yard first!
• What Identification or Documentation Is Required to Sell Scrap?
  Reputable scrap yards, like Fort Iron & Metal, usually require you to show a valid photo ID (like a driver's license). For larger items, especially whole vehicles, you might need to show proof of ownership (like a title). These rules are in place to prevent theft and comply with local regulations, keeping things honest and safe.
• How Is Payment Handled for Scrap Metal?
  Most scrap yards offer immediate payment, usually by cash or check. The amount you get depends on the weight and type of metal you're selling. Prices can change daily based on the global market. After your metal is inspected and weighed, they'll give you a detailed receipt for your transaction, so you know exactly what you're getting paid for.
• Do Junkyards Provide Pickup or Transportation Services?
  Many larger scrap yards, especially those dealing with industrial quantities, do offer pickup services for large loads, like industrial equipment or multiple junk cars. For smaller loads, you'll typically need to drop off your materials yourself. If you have a significant amount of metal to recycle, it's always a good idea to call Fort Iron & Metal ahead of time to see if they offer pickup or can recommend transportation options.
• Are There Environmental or Community Concerns Related to Junkyard Operations?
  Sometimes, yes. Large-scale scrap metal operations can generate fugitive dust (dust that escapes into the air) which might contain metals like iron. There can also be concerns about noise pollution from heavy machinery and truck traffic. Local communities often work with these businesses to ensure environmental safeguards are in place, like regular street cleaning and better dust control measures, to keep the air clean and the neighborhood happy.