American Scrap Co. at 1635 E Madison Ave, Des Moines, IA
American Scrap Co. is a self-service auto salvage yard and scrap metal facility at 1635 E Madison Ave in Des Moines. Customers can browse, remove, and pay for parts from salvaged vehicles on their own. The yard also handles scrap metal recycling, including aluminum and steel.
The business serves DIY mechanics and repair shops in the area, offering used auto parts from various vehicle makes and models. Hours are weekdays only, closing at 11:30 AM each day.
Services & What to Expect
American Scrap Co. is a self-service salvage yard where customers find and remove their own parts. The yard has totaled vehicles, end-of-life cars, and scrap metal. Key services include:
- Self-service parts removal: Customers search for and remove parts during open hours. Tools may be available to rent or buy on-site.
- Scrap metal recycling: The yard takes aluminum, steel, and other metals for recycling. Prices change with market rates.
- Used auto parts: Parts from domestic and foreign vehicles are available, including engines, transmissions, body panels, and interior components. Inventory changes daily as new vehicles arrive.
- No delivery or installation: American Scrap Co. doesn’t deliver parts or install them. Customers must transport parts themselves after removal.
Before visiting, bring:
- A VIN or part number if you know it
- Basic hand tools (unless renting on-site)
- A truck, trailer, or vehicle with space for parts
- Cash or card (depending on what the yard accepts)
The yard doesn’t help locate parts—customers must find them independently.
If you need to get rid of an old vehicle, American Scrap Co. may take junk cars for scrap metal, but this isn’t confirmed online. Call (515) 265-9876 to check their current policies.
Location & Hours
American Scrap Co. is at 1635 E Madison Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313. The yard is in an industrial area near downtown, with easy access from I-35 and I-235. Parking is available on-site.
| Day | Hours |
| Monday | 12:00 AM – 11:30 AM |
| Tuesday | 12:00 AM – 11:30 AM |
| Wednesday | 12:00 AM – 11:30 AM |
| Thursday | 12:00 AM – 11:30 AM |
| Friday | 12:00 AM – 11:30 AM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
The listed hours (12:00 AM – 11:30 AM) seem unusual for a salvage yard. Call (515) 265-9876 to confirm before visiting, as these may be outdated.
For directions, use the address 1635 E Madison Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313 in Google Maps. The yard is about:
- 3 miles east of downtown Des Moines
- 0.5 miles north of I-235
- Near Madison Ave and Fleur Dr
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for American Scrap Co.?
The listed hours are 12:00 AM – 11:30 AM on weekdays (Monday to Friday), with weekends closed. These hours seem incorrect—call (515) 265-9876 to check the current schedule before visiting.
Does American Scrap Co. buy junk cars?
The yard doesn’t advertise junk car purchases, but salvage yards often take vehicles for scrap metal. Call (515) 265-9876 to ask about their policy. If you need to sell a junk car, check local cash-for-cars programs for options.
What kind of parts can I find at American Scrap Co.?
The yard carries used auto parts from salvaged vehicles, including:
- Engines and transmissions
- Body panels (doors, hoods, fenders)
- Interior parts (seats, dashboards, trim)
- Suspension and drivetrain components
- Electrical parts (wiring harnesses, sensors)
Parts aren’t organized by make or model, so you’ll need to search vehicles yourself. All parts are sold as-is, with no guarantees.
How does self-service auto salvage work at American Scrap Co.?
The process is simple:
- Arrive during open hours and enter the yard (some yards require signing in).
- Find the part you need by searching through salvaged vehicles. Bring a VIN or part number if possible.
- Remove the part using your own tools (or rent tools on-site if available).
- Take the part to the payment area, where staff will weigh or inspect it and set a price.
- Pay and transport the part off-site. The yard doesn’t deliver or install parts.
You’re responsible for tools, safety gear, and transportation.
Are there any restrictions on removing parts?
Common rules at salvage yards include:
- No removal of airbags or catalytic converters (often restricted by law).
- Limits on how many parts you can take per visit.
- No damaging other vehicles while searching.
- Return any tools or equipment you borrow.
Always ask staff about specific rules before removing parts.
Does American Scrap Co. offer scrap metal pricing?
Yes, the yard accepts scrap metal like aluminum and steel for recycling. Prices change with market rates and may update daily. Call ahead for current rates, as they aren’t listed online.
Recent Mentions & Sources
American Scrap Co. is listed in junkyard and scrap metal directories, though recent reviews are limited. The business appears on platforms tracking salvage yards and recycling facilities in Iowa, including:
As of the latest data, American Scrap Co. has no customer reviews on Google or the Better Business Bureau. For the most current details, visit their website or call (515) 265-9876.
