How It Works

The Ferrous Metal Recycling Process at Lee's Iron & Metal

Knowing our recycling process helps make your visit smooth and fast. Our facility processes materials quickly so you spend less time waiting. Here's what happens when you visit us:

• Drive down our hill and join the line if needed
• Wait until the previous vehicle exits the scale
• Have your ID or business/contractors license ready
• Stay on the scale for initial weight recording
• Drive to the proper ferrous material piles
• Unload your materials in the right spot
• Return to the scale for final weighing and payment

If you're just dropping off materials without needing payment, you can skip the scale process and go straight to our drop-off area. This saves time while ensuring proper recycling of your materials. Unlike non-ferrous materials, ferrous metals have no 3-day hold, so you'll get paid right away for your materials.

The Simple Process of Recycling at Lee's Iron & Metal

Knowing how our recycling works helps you prepare for a quick, smooth visit. Our customers value our straightforward approach to metal recycling that saves time and removes confusion. Here are common reasons people recycle with us:

• Cleaning out garages or storage spaces
• Renovating homes or businesses
• Disposing of old vehicles or machinery
• Clearing construction debris
• Recycling industrial metal waste
• Getting cash for unwanted metal items

Dropping Off For Free (Except for Recycling Vehicles)

If you do not want to bother with driving on and off our scale, you may skip the line and drive directly to our pile where you drop your materials and simply drive away.

Why Choose Lee's Iron & Metal

When looking for a scrap metal recycling partner, experience and trust are important. Our long history in San Diego County shows our dedication to fair business and customer satisfaction. Here's why customers have trusted us for over six decades:

• Competitive pricing for maximum returns
• Fast service that respects your time
• Established business since 1959
• Decades of recycling industry knowledge
• Local ownership supporting San Diego
• Family business with strong values

We know your time matters, which is why we've made our process fast and efficient while still ensuring accurate weighing and fair payment for your materials.

Contact Us

Starting with Lee's Iron & Metal is easy. If you have questions about accepted materials, current prices, or vehicle recycling requirements, our team is ready to help. We focus on making your recycling experience simple and rewarding.

We offer weight certificates at $10 cash for regular vehicles or $15 cash for vehicles with axles. Please note that we operate on a cash-only basis and don't accept credit cards or digital payments like Venmo or Zelle. Contact us today to exchange your scrap metal for cash!