Iron and Steel Recycling in Chicago – Cash Paid on the Spot

Central Metal Recycling is one of Chicago's busiest buyers of iron and steel scrap. We accept everything from old appliances and sheet metal to heavy structural steel and cast iron. Iron and steel are priced per net ton, typically ranging from $150 to $300+ depending on grade and current market conditions. Demolition crews, contractors, homeowners, and scrappers bring us ferrous loads every day for cash on the spot.

Types of Iron and Steel We Accept

• Light iron and tin (appliances, sheet metal, ductwork, filing cabinets)
• Heavy melt steel (structural beams, plate steel, heavy machinery)
• Sheet iron (car bodies, panels, roofing metal)
• Cast iron (radiators, boiler sections, bathtubs, engine blocks)
• Rebar and reinforcing steel
• Steel pipe and tubing
• Angle iron and channel steel
• Tin and baling wire
• Auto parts (rotors, drums, suspension components)

Current Iron and Steel Prices in Chicago

Ferrous scrap prices are typically set at the beginning of each month and hold relatively steady throughout the month, unlike non-ferrous metals that move with daily commodity markets. For an exact quote on what your iron or steel is worth this month, call us at (773) 345-8610. We'll give you a straight answer.

How to Prepare Your Iron and Steel for Best Prices

• Separate ferrous from non-ferrous. Use a magnet. If it sticks, it's ferrous (iron or steel). If it doesn't stick, it might be aluminum, copper, or stainless. Keeping non-ferrous metals out of your iron pile means you get paid separately for the higher-value stuff.
• Remove non-metal attachments. Appliances with refrigerant, motors with oil, or items full of plastic and rubber get docked or rejected. Strip out what you can before bringing it in.
• Know the difference between light iron and heavy melt. Heavy steel (1/4 inch thick or more) pays more per ton than light iron like sheet metal and tin. If you have a mix, separate the heavy from the light and you'll get a better overall return.
• Drain all fluids. Any steel or iron item that held oil, refrigerant, or other fluids needs to be drained before we can accept it. Compressors need to be cut or have a hole punched in them.

Frequently Asked Questions