Alter Metal Recycling - Des Moines at 1810 Hull Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313
Alter Metal Recycling is a scrap metal buyer and self-service auto salvage yard at 1810 Hull Avenue in Des Moines. They take copper, brass, aluminum, and stainless steel, and let customers pull their own parts from junked cars. Unlike some yards that focus only on parts or scrap, they handle both under one roof. The yard is open Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM—no appointment needed. Bring your own tools and a way to haul parts.
Services & What to Expect
Alter Metal Recycling runs two main operations: scrap metal recycling and a self-service auto salvage yard. On the scrap side, they buy non-ferrous metals like copper, brass, and aluminum, paying for clean, sorted material. The salvage yard lets customers remove parts from junked vehicles at their own pace. The business doesn’t provide tools, so visitors need to bring their own.
Scrap Metal Recycling
The recycling side focuses on non-ferrous metals, which manufacturers use for new products. They accept:
- Copper (wiring, pipes, tubing)
- Brass (fixtures, valves, fittings)
- Aluminum (siding, gutters, cans)
- Stainless steel (appliances, industrial equipment)
Separate metals by type and remove contaminants like plastic or rubber before bringing them in. Prices change with market conditions and metal quality.
Self-Service Auto Salvage
The u-pull-it yard lets customers remove parts from junked cars without help. You’ll find domestic and foreign vehicles—cars, trucks, and SUVs—with parts like engines, transmissions, doors, and interior components. Bring your own tools, safety gear, and a vehicle to take parts home.
Customer Experience
Reviews show mixed feedback. Some customers like the staff, who remember regulars and give fair scrap prices. Others mention communication issues, like unreturned calls about containers, and safety concerns near the yard. A few have reported close calls with salvage vehicles on Hull Avenue.
Location & Hours
Alter Metal Recycling is at 1810 Hull Avenue in Des Moines, behind an old gas station. First-time visitors sometimes miss the turn. The yard is open Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM and closed weekends. Arrive early if you need help—staff may start closing up before the posted time.
Directions
From downtown Des Moines, take I-35 North toward Hull Street. Exit at Hull Avenue and turn right. The yard is about 0.3 miles east of the interstate, on the south side of the street. Watch for the Alter Metal Recycling sign near the entrance. GPS isn’t always reliable, so check the website or call for directions if needed.
Parking & Access
The salvage yard has a gravel lot for customers, with room for vehicles and trailers. The entrance is gated, so check in with staff when you arrive. The yard isn’t wheelchair accessible, and some areas have uneven ground. Wear sturdy shoes and avoid loose clothing while browsing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Alter Metal Recycling?
Alter Metal Recycling is open Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The yard is closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Get there at least 30 minutes before closing if you need help—staff may wrap up early.
Does Alter Metal Recycling buy junk cars?
Alter Metal Recycling mainly deals in scrap metal and auto salvage, but they may take junk cars for parts or scrap. Pricing depends on the car’s condition, metal content, and market demand. Call ahead to confirm availability and get a quote. If you’re selling a junk car, check out local cash-for-cars options too.
What kind of parts can I find at Alter Metal Recycling?
The salvage yard has a mix of domestic and foreign vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs. You’ll often find engines, transmissions, doors, fenders, bumpers, and interior parts like seats and dashboards. Inventory changes often, so call ahead or visit to see if they have what you need.
How does self-service auto salvage work at Alter Metal Recycling?
At Alter Metal Recycling, self-service salvage is simple: find the vehicle with the part you need, remove it with your own tools, and take it home. The yard doesn’t provide tools or help with removal. Prices aren’t listed online, so ask staff for details.
Do I need to make an appointment to visit Alter Metal Recycling?
No appointments are needed. The yard operates on a first-come, first-served basis during business hours. Call ahead if you’re bringing in large scrap loads or checking on parts. Arrive early, especially on Thursdays, since the yard may close before 4:30 PM.
Are there any safety concerns at Alter Metal Recycling?
Some customers have reported safety issues near the yard, including close calls with salvage vehicles on Hull Avenue. The lot itself has uneven ground, sharp metal, and heavy equipment. Wear gloves, closed-toe shoes, and avoid loose clothing. Kids aren’t allowed in the salvage area.
Recent News & Updates
Alter Metal Recycling is listed in industry directories like RecyclingMonster , ScrapMonster , and U-Pull-It . They hold a 4.0-star rating on Google from 97 reviews, with recent feedback mentioning helpful staff but also communication and safety issues. No major changes have been announced, but the yard stays open as a local spot for scrap and auto parts.
