Sims Metal at 350 N Artesian Ave, Chicago, IL 60612
Sims Metal at 350 North Artesian Avenue in Chicago runs a scrap metal recycling operation and a self-service auto salvage yard. The yard doesn’t sell whole vehicles but focuses on metal recycling and letting customers pull their own parts from decommissioned cars and trucks. It serves people looking for affordable auto parts and businesses that need scrap metal processing.
Services & What to Expect
Sims Metal offers two main services: scrap metal recycling and self-service auto salvage. The yard doesn’t sell complete vehicles, but customers can browse and remove parts from cars, trucks, and other decommissioned vehicles. Here’s what you should know before visiting:
Self-Service Auto Salvage
The salvage yard lets customers enter during open hours to find and remove parts from vehicles. Staff don’t help with part removal, so bring your own tools. You’ll find engines, transmissions, body panels, and interior components, but there’s no inventory—you’ll need to search manually.
Scrap Metal Recycling
Sims Metal takes in steel, aluminum, copper, and brass scrap. Pricing depends on the metal type and weight, and rates change with market conditions. They process automotive scrap and other metal materials. Call ahead to check current pricing and accepted materials.
What to Bring
- Tools for removing parts (if salvaging)
- A vehicle to haul parts or scrap
- Payment method (if buying parts)
- ID or proof of ownership (if selling scrap)
What to Avoid
- Expecting staff to help with part removal
- Looking for whole vehicles for sale
- Visiting on Sundays or holidays (closed)
- Assuming parts are in working condition (salvage items are used)
If you need to get rid of a junk car, Sims Metal may take vehicles for scrap, but they don’t advertise this service. Call (312) 985-0536 to confirm their current policies.
Location & Hours
Sims Metal is at 350 North Artesian Avenue in Chicago’s West Side. The yard is near the Kennedy Expressway (I-90/94) and has on-site parking. Hours are Monday through Friday, 6:30 AM to 4:30 PM, and Saturdays, 6:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Sundays and holidays are closed.
| Day | Hours |
| Monday | 6:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 6:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 6:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Thursday | 6:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Friday | 6:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Saturday | 6:30 AM – 1:30 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
For directions, use 350 North Artesian Avenue, Chicago, IL 60612. The yard is near North Artesian Avenue and West Madison Street, with easy access from the Kennedy Expressway.
Customer Experiences
Sims Metal has mixed reviews from customers. Some praise the fair pricing and quick service, while others complain about long wait times and unhelpful staff. Here’s what people say:
Positive Feedback
- Fair pricing: Many customers say Sims Metal offers good rates for scrap metal and used parts. One reviewer got "top dollar" for scrap without delays.
- Efficiency: Several mention a fast, no-hassle process, which is helpful for quick scrap drops or part searches.
- Convenient location: The West Side spot is well-located, with easy access from major roads.
Negative Feedback
- Staff responsiveness: A few reviews mention long waits and unprofessional behavior. One customer waited 45 minutes for their truck to be loaded, with staff taking long breaks.
- Payment issues: Some reports say payments were short or materials went missing, though these seem rare.
Sims Metal is a solid choice for scrap metal and self-service salvage, but customers should expect possible delays and double-check payments before leaving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Sims Metal at 350 N Artesian Ave?
Sims Metal is open Monday through Friday, 6:30 AM to 4:30 PM, and Saturdays, 6:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Sundays and holidays are closed. For the latest hours, check their official website .
Does Sims Metal buy junk cars?
Sims Metal mainly recycles scrap metal and offers self-service salvage. They may take vehicles for scrap, but this isn’t publicly advertised. If you need to sell a junk car , call (312) 985-0536 to confirm their current policies.
What kind of parts can I find at Sims Metal?
The salvage yard has engines, transmissions, body panels, bumpers, doors, fenders, and interior parts like seats and dashboards. There’s no inventory, so you’ll need to search manually. Parts are sold as-is with no guarantees.
How does self-service auto salvage work at Sims Metal?
Self-service salvage is simple: enter during open hours, find your parts, and remove them with your own tools. Staff don’t help with removal, and you’re responsible for transporting parts off-site. Pricing is set on-site, and you pay before leaving. Bring tools, a vehicle for transport, and be ready to search for parts.
Does Sims Metal accept all types of scrap metal?
Sims Metal takes steel, aluminum, copper, and brass scrap, including automotive metal. Pricing depends on the type and weight, with rates changing based on market conditions. Call (312) 985-0536 to confirm accepted materials and current pricing.
Is there a fee to enter the salvage yard?
Sims Metal doesn’t charge an entry fee for the salvage yard. You only pay for parts you take. Tools and transport are your responsibility. If you buy parts, be ready to pay on-site before leaving.
