Sims Metal - East Chicago, Indiana at 425 W 152nd St
Sims Metal in East Chicago is a scrap metal recycling yard and auto salvage at 425 W 152nd St. The business is part of the Sims Metal Management network, which has been in metal recycling since 1937. While the main focus is scrap metal, they also sell used auto parts to customers who browse and remove parts themselves. The yard is open Monday through Friday from 6:00 AM to 3:30 PM, with weekends closed. It serves both individuals looking for affordable car parts and businesses that need scrap metal recycling.
Services & What to Expect
Sims Metal offers two main services: scrap metal recycling and used auto parts. For scrap metal, they buy copper, aluminum, steel, and other non-ferrous metals at market rates. For auto parts, customers search the yard themselves, remove what they need, and pay at the front office.
Scrap Metal Recycling
The yard takes clean, separated scrap metal. Common materials include:
- Copper wire and tubing
- Aluminum siding, wheels, and castings
- Steel beams, rebar, and scrap
- Stainless steel
- Lead and brass
On-site scales weigh materials accurately. Customers should remove contaminants like plastic, wood, or insulation. The yard does not accept hazardous waste, tires, or electronics.
Used Auto Parts (Self-Service)
The salvage area has parts from decommissioned vehicles. Customers can:
- Walk the yard to find parts
- Check inventory lists (if available) for part locations
- Remove parts with basic tools
- Pay at the front counter by weight or piece
Common parts include engines, transmissions, body panels, and interior components. The yard does not clean or machine parts.
What to Bring
For scrap metal:
- Valid ID
- Separated, clean metal
- A truck or trailer for large loads
For auto parts:
- Vehicle or part details
- Basic tools (if needed for removal)
- Cash or card for payment
Safety & Rules
The yard follows standard safety rules:
- No open flames or smoking
- Closed-toe shoes required
- Supervise children at all times
- No part removal after hours
- Management can refuse service if rules are broken
Location & Hours
Sims Metal - East Chicago is at 425 W 152nd St, East Chicago, IN 46312. The facility is in an industrial area near the Calumet River, with easy access from I-90/94. Parking is available, though large trucks should use the unloading zones.
Current Operating Hours
| Day | Open | Close |
| Monday | 6:00 AM | 3:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 6:00 AM | 3:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 6:00 AM | 3:30 PM |
| Thursday | 6:00 AM | 3:30 PM |
| Friday | 6:00 AM | 3:30 PM |
| Saturday | Closed | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed | Closed |
Hours may change due to weather or season. Call (219) 378-7426 to confirm before visiting, especially for long trips.
Nearby Attractions & Services
Nearby, you’ll find:
- Industrial supply stores within 5 miles
- Auto repair shops along Columbus Dr
- Public transit via Indiana Transit (Route 30)
- Restaurants on 159th St
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Sims Metal in East Chicago?
The yard is open Monday through Friday from 6:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Weekends and holidays are closed. For the latest hours, call (219) 378-7426 before your visit.
Does Sims Metal buy junk cars?
Sims Metal focuses on scrap metal, not vehicle purchases. They may take end-of-life cars for scrap if the metal is valuable, but they don’t guarantee junk car removal. For guaranteed pickup, check with local cash-for-cars services .
What kind of parts can I find at Sims Metal?
The salvage yard has parts from decommissioned passenger vehicles, including:
- Engines and transmissions
- Body panels (doors, hoods, fenders)
- Bumpers and grilles
- Interior parts (seats, dashboards)
- Suspension parts (control arms, struts)
- Braking components
Inventory changes daily as vehicles are processed. Call (219) 378-7426 if you’re looking for something specific.
How does self-service auto salvage work at Sims Metal?
Customers enter the yard, find parts using vehicle details or part numbers, and remove them with their own tools. Payment is made at the front counter by weight or piece. The yard doesn’t clean or machine parts, so bring basic tools like wrenches or sockets.
Are there any restrictions on bringing scrap metal to Sims Metal?
Yes. The yard has these rules:
- Metals must be separated by type
- No hazardous materials (batteries, tires, electronics)
- No contaminated metal (painted, coated, or treated)
- Scrap must be at least 2 feet in any dimension (call for exceptions)
- Metal should be clean—remove plastic, wood, and insulation
Breaking these rules may get you turned away.
What should I do if I need a part not available at Sims Metal?
If the part you need isn’t in stock, try:
- Checking back later—inventory changes often
- Calling (219) 378-7426 to ask about upcoming vehicle arrivals
- Visiting other local salvage yards or auto part stores
- Ordering the part new if it’s a critical safety component
