What are ferrous metals?
Ferrous metals are metals that contain iron, like steel and cast iron. They stick to a magnet and can rust. Ferrous scrap is the most common type of scrap metal and is paid by weight.
Scrap metal recycling · Northeast Florida
Sell ferrous scrap metal
Steel, cast iron, sheet iron, structural steel, engines and old machinery. Bring it to a John's Famous yard in Bunnell, Holly Hill or Palatka — family owned since 1974.
- Open to the public & contractors
- Certified scales
- Cash or check on the spot
Ferrous metals: quick answers
How can I tell if my scrap metal is ferrous?
Use a magnet. If it sticks strongly, the metal is ferrous (steel or iron). If it doesn't stick, it's non-ferrous, like copper or aluminum, and usually pays more.
How do I get the most money for scrap steel?
Keep heavy steel and cast iron separate from thin sheet steel, and remove wood, plastic, rubber and non-metal parts. Clean, sorted steel grades higher than mixed loads.
Where can I sell scrap steel near me?
John's Famous Auto Parts & Metals buys ferrous scrap in Bunnell, Holly Hill and Palatka, Florida. In Bunnell, bring steel to the 3325 S US Hwy 1 gate. Use the yard finder on this page to check your material.
What we buy
Ferrous metals we buy
Heavy Melt Steel
Thick steel scrap, usually 1/4 inch or heavier. Heavy steel is worth more than thin, light steel.
Examples
- Steel pipe and tubing
- Trailer frames and axles
- Thick plate cutoffs
- Steel tanks (empty and open)
Cast Iron
Cast iron is heavy, brittle and dark grey. It breaks instead of bending and is bought as its own grade.
Examples
- Cast iron drain pipe
- Old radiators and bathtubs
- Wood stoves and grates
- Engine blocks and brake rotors
Sheet Iron & Light Steel
Thin steel that bends easily, sometimes called tin or shred. It's the most common scrap people bring in.
Examples
- Metal shelving and bed frames
- Steel roofing and siding
- Filing cabinets
- Grills and swing sets
Structural Steel & Rebar
Beams, plate and rebar from building and demolition work. Large pieces may need to be cut to size.
Examples
- I-beams and channel
- Steel plate
- Rebar and wire mesh
- Fence posts and railing
Machinery & Equipment
Old equipment made mostly of steel. Drain all fuel, oil and fluids before you bring it in.
Examples
- Lawn mowers (drained)
- Farm implements
- Steel wheels and rims
- Exercise equipment
Engines & Auto Parts
Loose steel and iron car parts. Engines and transmissions should be drained of oil and fluids.
Examples
- Engines and transmissions
- Brake drums and rotors
- Steel wheels
- Exhaust and suspension parts
Yard finder
Find my yard
Tell us what metal you have and we'll point you to the right yard and gate.
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FAQ
Ferrous scrap metal FAQ
How is ferrous scrap metal priced?
Ferrous scrap is paid by weight on certified scales. The price depends on the grade, how clean it is, and current market prices. Call the yard for today's prices.
Do I need to cut large steel pieces?
Some long or oversized pieces may need to be cut down so they can be handled. Call the yard before bringing very large items.
Do I need to drain fluids from engines and mowers?
Yes. Drain gas, oil and other fluids from engines, lawn mowers and machinery before bringing them in.
Is stainless steel a ferrous metal?
Stainless steel contains iron, but it's bought as a non-ferrous grade because it contains nickel and chromium. Keep it separate from regular steel.
What do I need to bring to sell scrap metal?
Bring a valid government-issued photo ID. Florida law requires scrap yards to record seller identification for each sale.
Which Bunnell yard takes steel?
In Bunnell, steel and other ferrous metal goes to 3325 S US Hwy 1. Non-ferrous metal goes to 3625 S US Hwy 1.