Universal Scrap Metals

USM, Inc. is one of North America’s largest wholesalers & processors of scrap metal. USM provides a full range of comprehensive scrap management services and technically advanced scrap handling equipment to all types of industrial accounts throughout metropolitan Chicago and the U.S. As global markets, environmental concerns and technology become increasingly complex, customers rely on USM for technical assistance and professional expertise.

Before there was a Green Business Certification, before companies had sustainability plans and environmental officers who worried about zero emissions and overcrowded landfills, USM, Inc. was already at the forefront of scrap metal recycling and processing.

Recycling Today ranked USM in the top 20 of the largest non-ferrous scrap processors in North America in 2010.  Due to USM’s tremendous growth over the past decade, we have expanded into five operating companies: USM, Inc., USM Processing, USM Recycling, USMe and BLH Computers.  Our companies buy non-ferrous, ferrous, precious metal bearing, used beverage cans (UBC), hi-temp alloys, electronic and composite metal scrap from industrial and manufacturing companies, recycling centers and independent scrap dealers.

With our 180,000 sq. ft. facility on ten acres just 2 miles west of the downtown Chicago Loop, USM coordinates extensive in house scrap processing and preparation.  USM is a fully optimized processing plant that offers an easy, single point of contact to handle a wide variety of processing needs.  Our extra-large capacity, efficient methodology and extensive years of experience all work together to streamline production and pull the most value out.

Every day, the world market, environmental responsibility and technology become increasingly complex.  More businesses and consumers rely on USM for our technical assistance and expertise. We work closely with sustainability platforms, environmental standards and efficiency programs to make companies work better.  We can provide you with recycling and processing solutions that are built on integrity.

USM Recycling

At USM Recycling, located conveniently in Alsip, IL, we purchase scrap metal directly from the general public, other recycling dealers, & waste haulers. If you’ve got a pickup load you’re ready to drop off, we’re here to help with convenient hours and competitive rates.  Many of our regular customers include contractors from job sites, homeowners clearing out the garage or basement and small businesses who may have a bag or two of cans to drop off or a full truckload.  We are in full compliance with the latest changes to state and local regulations for the proper disposal of all scrap metal recycling. Some of the many items we accept are aluminum cans, copper wire, brass, aluminum siding/gutters and steel.    Please contact us with questions on appliances before bringing them in.

USM Processing

As one of the largest processors of Used Beverage Cans (UBC) in the Midwest, USM Processing is focused on the collection and processing of specification and off-spec used beverage cans. In addition, we specialize in precious metal recovery and films of all kinds, including medical, litho, industrial, microfiche, etc.We pride ourselves on our exclusive customer service with spot payments, prompt settlements and consignment accounts. Our processed scrap metals are used throughout the United States as well as Asia, Canada and Mexico.

Environment & Safety

Safety

Health and safety issues are top priorities at the USM companies. USM is frequently recognized for its outstanding safety performance without a lost workday. We maintain award winning safety levels at all of our companies with consistent and regular safety training for our valued employees.

 Environment

With numerous safety awards and exemplary achievements, USM is a proud in environmental partner in processing and recycling scrap metals, saving it from landfills.In 1997, while looking to expand its headquarters, USM voluntarily entered the Illinois Brownfield Program. Under this program, USM did extensive clean-up work of the new property to ensure we were operating on clean land while also doing our part to protect the environment. USM takes pride in the full recovery of the site, not only for the health and safety of our valued employees and the local area, but also for our current and future clients. USM is inspected monthly by the Department of Environment and to date has not received any citations.