SA Recycling at 16954 US-72, Athens, AL 35611
SA Recycling is a self-service auto salvage yard and scrap metal recycling center at 16954 US-72 in Athens, Alabama. The business has been in operation for over 30 years, offering two main services: a u-pull-it yard where customers remove their own parts from junked vehicles, and a scrap metal recycling center that buys metal from individuals and businesses.
Services & What to Expect
SA Recycling handles two main operations: a self-service auto salvage yard and a scrap metal recycling center. Customers can either pull parts from wrecked cars or sell scrap metal for cash. The yard doesn’t provide tools, so visitors must bring their own.
Self-Service Auto Salvage
The u-pull-it yard lets customers find and remove parts at their own pace. Vehicles are sorted by make and model, with parts labeled as good, fair, or salvage-only. You’ll need to bring your own tools—wrenches, sockets, pry bars—to take parts. Payment is made at the exit based on what you remove.
Scrap Metal Recycling
SA Recycling buys scrap metal from homes and businesses. Common metals accepted include:
- Steel
- Aluminum
- Copper
- Brass
- Stainless steel
- Catalysts
Prices change based on metal type and weight. Check current rates on the SA Recycling website before visiting.
What to Bring
When visiting SA Recycling, bring:
- Tools (wrenches, sockets, pry bars) for removing parts
- Gloves and safety gear (recommended)
- Vehicle paperwork (if selling a car for scrap)
- Cash or a payment method (if buying parts or selling scrap)
Customer Experience
Reviews from customers vary. Some like the straightforward process and fair prices, while others mention occasional delays or issues with staff. A few customers note that the yard can get busy, leading to longer wait times, but others say the staff helps with unloading. Some also mention discrepancies in weighing scrap metal, so it’s a good idea to double-check your load if needed.
Location & Hours
SA Recycling is at 16954 US-72 in Athens, Alabama, just off Highway 72. The yard is open to the public with the following hours:
| Day | Hours |
| Monday | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Thursday | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Friday | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Saturday | 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM |
| Sunday | Closed |
The yard is closed on Sundays. If visiting on Saturday, arrive early—the yard closes at 11:30 AM.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for SA Recycling at 16954 US-72?
SA Recycling is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM and on Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM. The yard is closed on Sundays.
Does SA Recycling buy junk cars?
Yes, SA Recycling takes junk cars for scrap. Call ahead to confirm pricing and what’s needed to sell a vehicle. If you’re looking to get rid of an old car, you can also check out cash for junk cars options in the area.
What kind of parts can I find at SA Recycling?
SA Recycling carries a wide range of used auto parts from salvaged vehicles. Parts are organized by make and model, with labels showing their condition—good, fair, or salvage-only. Common items include engines, transmissions, body panels, and interior components. You’ll need to bring your own tools to remove parts.
How does self-service auto salvage work at SA Recycling?
Self-service salvage at SA Recycling works like this:
- Arrive during business hours and park near the u-pull-it yard.
- Find the vehicle with the parts you need using the yard’s organization by make and model.
- Remove the parts yourself with your own tools.
- Take the parts to the payment area at the exit to pay for what you took.
The yard doesn’t provide tools or remove parts for customers.
What tools do I need to bring to SA Recycling?
You’ll need to bring your own tools, such as wrenches, sockets, and pry bars, to remove parts. Gloves and safety gear are also a good idea.
Are there any restrictions on what I can take from the yard?
SA Recycling doesn’t have strict restrictions on part removal, but customers should only take what they need. Some parts may be labeled as "salvage-only," meaning they’re in poor shape but still usable. If you’re unsure about a part, ask staff before taking it.
