Stainless steel value depends heavily on grade. We buy all types — and
we can usually identify the grade on-site so you get paid accurately
for what you actually have.
304 Stainless
Most Common
The workhorse grade — 18% chromium, 8% nickel. The most widely
traded stainless scrap grade. Shiny silver, non-magnetic in its
pure form, and extremely common in commercial applications.
Common sources: sinks, countertops, food equipment, appliances,
tubing
316 / 316L
Premium Grade
Adds molybdenum for superior corrosion resistance. Used in marine,
pharmaceutical, and food processing environments. Pays more per
pound than 304 — worth separating if you know what you have.
Common sources: coastal equipment, medical devices, marine
fittings, chemical tanks
410 / 430 Magnetic
Good Value
Magnetic stainless grades with lower nickel content. Pays less
than 304/316 but more than carbon steel. A magnet will stick to it
— still worth selling to a specialist buyer like CRC.
Common sources: auto trim, kitchen utensils, some appliance panels
Restaurant Equipment
High Volume
Commercial kitchen equipment is almost always 304 stainless. Prep
tables, shelving, sinks, and range hoods are a consistent source.
We pick up directly from restaurants and food service businesses.
Common sources: restaurant closures, kitchen remodels, food
equipment dealers
Industrial Tanks & Pipe
High Value
Stainless process tanks, pressure vessels, and industrial piping
from food, pharma, and chemical plants. Often 316 or 316L — the
highest-paying stainless grades. We handle large-scale industrial
cleanup.
Common sources: food processors, breweries, chemical plants,
pharmaceutical facilities
Mixed / Unknown
Quoted On-Site
Not sure what grade you have? No problem. We bring a magnet and
can often identify grades on-site. Mixed or unidentified stainless
is quoted conservatively but still pays real money versus carbon
steel.
Common sources: estate cleanouts, industrial surplus, demolition
loads