12th Street Recycling Inc at 4300 E 12th St, Kansas City, MO 64127
12th Street Recycling is a Kansas City auto salvage yard and scrap metal recycler that lets customers find their own parts. Located at 4300 East 12th Street, it runs on a self-service model—no pressure to buy, no rush. The yard handles parts from domestic and foreign vehicles, including engines, transmissions, body panels, and interior components. They also take scrap metal for recycling, helping keep it out of local landfills.
The business has a 4.1-star rating from 129 Google reviews. Customers mention efficient service but also note some inconsistencies in scrap metal weighing.
Services & What to Expect
12th Street Recycling is a true self-service salvage yard. You search for parts on your own, with no sales pressure. The lot has used auto parts from many vehicle makes and models, including common domestic brands and some foreign cars. Inventory isn’t organized by make or model, so you’ll need to browse. Staff can point you toward specific areas if you describe what you’re looking for. The yard also has a scrap metal section for recycling aluminum, copper, brass, and other metals.
How Self-Service Works
During open hours, you can walk the lot and inspect parts at your own pace. There’s no fee to browse, and you only pay for what you take. Tools may be available for rent or purchase if you need help removing parts, but this isn’t guaranteed—bring your own if possible. Staff are usually available to answer questions or help identify parts, though assistance levels can vary.
What to Bring
- A vehicle that can haul parts—many components are heavy or bulky
- Basic tools if you plan to remove parts on-site (some may be available for rent)
- Cash or a card for payment (both are accepted)
- Gloves and safety gear if handling sharp metal or heavy parts
Scrap Metal Recycling
The yard accepts non-ferrous metals like aluminum, copper, and brass. Some reviews mention inconsistencies in weighing, especially for smaller scrap items. To avoid issues:
- Weigh your own metal before handing it over if possible
- Check the scale area for cleanliness (some customers report dirt affecting readings)
- Ask for a second weighing if you suspect an error
The business also handles junk car removals, though they don’t advertise it. If you need to get rid of an old vehicle, check our
cash for junk cars page for local options.
Customer Experience Notes
Staff at 12th Street Recycling generally get positive feedback for their straightforward approach. Customers often mention:
- Clear explanations of the self-service process
- Friendly interactions without pushy sales tactics
- Efficient scrap metal and can processing
Some challenges include:
- Uneven ground in certain areas (especially near the Ferris section), making carts hard to push
- Occasional weighing inconsistencies for scrap metal
- Limited Saturday hours (only until 11:30 AM)
The yard tends to be quieter during off-hours, which some customers prefer.
Location & Hours
12th Street Recycling is at 4300 East 12th Street in Kansas City, MO (64127), near North Prospect Avenue. It’s easy to reach from I-29 via Exit 1B. Parking is available on-site, though larger vehicles may need designated areas.
Current Hours (as of June 2024)
| Day | Hours |
| Monday | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Thursday | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Friday | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Saturday | 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Weekday hours are consistent, but Saturdays close early at 11:30 AM. There are no evening or Sunday hours. Plan to arrive before 11:30 AM on weekends.
Contact Information
Phone: (816) 483-1225
Address: 4300 East 12th Street, Kansas City, MO 64127
Recent News & Updates
12th Street Recycling doesn’t maintain a blog or social media, but third-party directories have listed recent updates. According to ISCrapApp and RecycleSpot , the yard has kept normal operations with no major disruptions. It was last verified as active in June 2024.
Recent reviews show a mix of praise for helpful staff and complaints about weighing practices. No major changes to hours or services have been reported since 2023. The yard remains one of the few self-service salvage options in northeast Kansas City, serving both individuals and small businesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for 12th Street Recycling?
The yard is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. On Saturdays, hours are shorter: 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Sundays are closed. These hours have stayed the same for at least the past year, but it’s always good to confirm before visiting.
Does 12th Street Recycling buy junk cars?
While the yard is mainly a self-service salvage operation, it does accept junk cars for recycling. The service isn’t advertised, so call ahead at (816) 483-1225 to check current policies and pricing. For other local junk car buyers, visit our cash for junk cars page .
What kind of parts can I find at 12th Street Recycling?
The yard carries a wide range of used auto parts from domestic and foreign vehicles. Common finds include:
- Engines and transmissions (various makes and models)
- Body panels (doors, hoods, fenders, bumpers)
- Interior parts (seats, dashboards, trim)
- Suspension components (shocks, struts, control arms)
- Braking system parts
- Electrical components (wiring harnesses, alternators, starters)
Inventory isn’t organized by make or model, so you’ll need to browse. Staff can sometimes point you in the right direction if you describe what you’re looking for. Parts are priced individually, and you pay only for what you take.
How does self-service auto salvage work at 12th Street Recycling?
When you visit during open hours, you can walk the lot and inspect parts at your own pace. Here’s what to expect:
- Enter during business hours (no appointment needed)
- Browse the lot for parts—inventory isn’t organized by make or model
- Check parts carefully (the yard operates on a "buyer beware" basis)
- Take your selected parts to the payment area
- Pay for what you’ve chosen (cash or card accepted)
- Load your parts and leave
Tools may be available for rent if you need help removing parts, but this isn’t guaranteed. Some customers bring their own. Staff are usually available to answer questions or help identify parts, though assistance can vary.
Are there any restrictions on what I can bring into the yard?
The business doesn’t list official restrictions, but based on customer reports and common salvage yard rules, you should:
- Avoid bringing children unless necessary (some areas have uneven ground and heavy equipment)
- Leave pets in your vehicle (salvage yards typically don’t allow animals)
- Don’t bring weapons or illegal substances
- Avoid loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in machinery
- Follow any posted signs about restricted areas
Call ahead at (816) 483-1225 if you have questions about what you plan to bring.
What should I do if I think I’ve been given an inaccurate weighing for scrap metal?
Some customers have reported weighing issues at 12th Street Recycling. If you suspect an error:
- Politely ask the staff member to re-weigh your metal
- If they refuse, ask to speak with a manager
- Take photos of your metal before handing it over (this creates a record)
- Weigh your own metal if possible using a separate scale
- Check online reviews to see if others have reported similar issues with specific staff
The business doesn’t have an official complaint process, but calling the main number (816) 483-1225 during business hours is the best way to address concerns.
