Upstate Metal Recycling at 11400 Bluffton Rd, Fort Wayne, IN 46809
Upstate Metal Recycling is a self-service auto salvage yard and scrap metal buyer at 11400 Bluffton Road in Fort Wayne. Customers can remove their own parts from salvaged vehicles during open hours. The yard also buys scrap metal—steel, aluminum, copper, and other materials—from individuals and businesses. No delivery or part removal services are offered, so visitors must bring their own tools.
Opened over 20 years ago, the yard serves Fort Wayne and Northeast Indiana. Prices depend on part condition and market demand. While they accept junk cars and non-running vehicles, they don’t advertise cash-for-cars services. For a quick sale, check out local cash-for-junk-cars programs .
Services & What to Expect
Upstate Metal offers two main services: self-service auto salvage and scrap metal recycling. Customers can enter the yard during business hours to find and remove parts from salvaged vehicles. No tools or labor are provided, so visitors must bring their own equipment. Payment is made at checkout, with prices based on part condition and demand.
Self-Service Auto Salvage
The yard has a large inventory of salvaged vehicles, including domestic and foreign models. Customers can look for parts like engines, transmissions, body panels, and interior components. All parts are sold as-is—no warranties or guarantees. Inspect parts carefully before buying.
Scrap Metal Recycling
Upstate Metal buys scrap metal, including steel, iron, aluminum, and copper. Pricing is based on weight and market rates. The yard uses a "net ton" measurement of 2,240 pounds, which is higher than the standard 2,000-pound ton. This means payments may be lower than expected if not accounted for in advance.
Junk Cars & Non-Running Vehicles
The yard accepts junk cars and non-running vehicles but doesn’t advertise cash-for-cars services. Contact them directly to confirm acceptance and pricing. For a faster sale, consider local cash-for-junk-cars programs .
What to Bring
- Tools for part removal (wrenches, sockets, pry bars, etc.)
- Gloves and safety gear (some parts may be sharp or dirty)
- Transportation to carry parts away (truck, trailer, or vehicle with space)
- Cash or accepted payment method (check their website for details)
Location & Hours
Upstate Metal Recycling is at 11400 Bluffton Road in Fort Wayne. The yard is easy to reach from major roads. Hours are:
| Day | Hours |
| Monday | 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Thursday | 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Friday | 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Saturday | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
The yard is closed Sundays. For directions, visit their website .
Customer Experiences
Upstate Metal Recycling has mixed reviews. Some customers like the straightforward process and fair pricing, while others mention weighing discrepancies and lower payments. Here’s what a few visitors have said:
Positive Feedback
Sarah K and Leslie Funk both had good experiences. Sarah called the process "stupid easy" with no waiting, while Leslie said the crew was "the friendliest" and offered "fair deals and people who actually care." These reviews suggest some customers appreciate the ease of transactions and the staff’s attitude.
Concerns Raised
Several customers, including C Rush, Reid Freiburger, and Logan Eisaman, noted issues with the yard’s weighing practices. They said the yard uses a "net ton" of 2,240 pounds instead of the standard 2,000 pounds. This can lead to lower payments than expected. Reid Freiburger lost $20 per ton, while Logan Eisaman called it a "system to make sure you don’t realize you’re getting shorted." Customers should double-check weights and payments before finalizing transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Upstate Metal Recycling?
Upstate Metal is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The yard is closed Sundays. For the latest hours, check their website .
Does Upstate Metal Recycling buy junk cars?
Yes, the yard accepts junk cars and non-running vehicles. They don’t advertise cash-for-cars services, so contact them directly to confirm acceptance and pricing. For a quicker sale, try local cash-for-junk-cars programs .
What kind of parts can I find at Upstate Metal Recycling?
The yard has a variety of auto parts from salvaged vehicles, including engines, transmissions, body panels, and interior components. Both domestic and foreign models are available. Parts are sold as-is, so inspect them before buying. Inventory changes often, so visiting in person is best.
How does self-service auto salvage work at Upstate Metal Recycling?
Self-service salvage is simple. Customers enter during open hours, find the parts they need, and remove them with their own tools. The yard doesn’t provide tools or help with removal. After removing parts, customers pay at checkout. Prices depend on condition and demand.
Does Upstate Metal Recycling provide tools or equipment?
No, the yard doesn’t provide tools or equipment. Customers must bring their own, like wrenches, sockets, and safety gear. The yard also doesn’t offer delivery or part removal services, so plan to transport parts yourself.
How are scrap metal payments calculated at Upstate Metal Recycling?
Payments are based on weight and market rates. The yard uses a "net ton" of 2,240 pounds, which is higher than the standard 2,000-pound ton. This can result in lower payments than expected. Always verify weights and payments before finalizing a transaction.
