Stainless Steel Recycling in Chicago – Cash Paid on the Spot
Central Metal Recycling buys 304 and 316 grade stainless steel scrap in Chicago. Stainless pays well, typically ranging from $0.30 to $0.75+ per pound depending on grade, quantity, and market conditions. Restaurant owners, contractors, fabrication shops, and scrappers all bring us stainless steel regularly, and we pay cash on the spot for every load.
Types of Stainless Steel We Accept
- 304 stainless steel (kitchen sinks, prep tables, restaurant equipment, appliance panels)
- 316 stainless steel (marine hardware, chemical processing equipment, surgical instruments)
- Stainless steel sheet and plate
- Stainless steel pipe and tubing
- Stainless steel turnings and shavings
- Stainless steel railings and handrails
- Mixed stainless (items with unknown grade, we test on site)
- Stainless steel kegs, pots, and food service equipment
Current Stainless Steel Prices in Chicago
Stainless steel scrap prices Chicago depend on the nickel content of the alloy, which drives the value. 316 stainless pays more than 304 because it has higher nickel and molybdenum content. For an exact quote on your stainless steel, call us at (773) 345-8610. We'll tell you what it's worth today.
How to Prepare Your Stainless Steel for Best Prices
- Know your grade. 304 and 316 are the two most common grades and they pay different prices. If your material has a stamp, marking, or you know what it came from, tell us. Restaurant equipment is almost always 304. Marine or chemical equipment is often 316.
- Separate stainless from regular steel. A lot of people mix stainless in with their regular steel pile and get paid ferrous prices for it. Stainless pays significantly more per pound. Use a magnet as a starting point, but keep in mind some stainless grades are slightly magnetic.
- Remove non-stainless attachments. If your stainless steel equipment has rubber feet, plastic handles, or carbon steel bolts, remove what you can. Cleaner material grades higher and pays better.
- Don't cut it down unnecessarily. Stainless steel doesn't need to be cut into small pieces. Bring it in whatever size you have and we'll handle it from there. Cutting it up just wastes your time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel?
304 is the most common stainless steel grade, used in kitchen equipment, sinks, and appliance trim. 316 has added molybdenum for better corrosion resistance, making it the standard for marine and chemical applications. 316 pays more per pound because of its higher nickel content. Our Chicago team can test your material on site if you're not sure which grade you have.
How do I know if my metal is stainless steel?
Stainless steel has a distinct bright, silvery appearance and resists rust. A simple magnet test can help, but it's not definitive since some stainless grades are slightly magnetic. The best way to confirm is to bring it to Central Metal Recycling and we'll test it with our analyzer. Stainless steel recycling Chicago customers get their material graded on the spot.
Do you buy restaurant equipment for stainless steel scrap?
Yes. Prep tables, sinks, shelving, hoods, and other food service equipment made from stainless steel are some of the most common items we buy. If you're closing a restaurant or upgrading your kitchen in Chicago, bring the old stainless equipment to us for cash.
Got stainless steel to sell? Central Metal Recycling offers top-paying stainless steel recycling Chicago. Cash for stainless steel Chicago, no appointment needed.
5618 W. Fillmore Street, Chicago, IL 60644
Monday-Friday: 7:00am - 4:00pm
Saturday: 7:00am - 11:00am
Sunday: Closed