About Us

Our Story

A Tradition of Excellence Since 1940

The foundation of Sioux City Compressed Steel was built on dedication, integrity, and quality service. Our story began when Sam Bernstein, after gaining experience in the scrap metal industry in New York and Brooklyn, Iowa, moved his family to Sioux City in 1940. With a vision for growth, he purchased land and launched what would become one of the most trusted names for metal recycling in the region.

From the beginning, Sam and his team upheld values of hard work, honesty, and a commitment to delivering top-quality recycled materials. His business principles, fair dealing, efficiency, and innovation, continue to guide us today.

Over the decades, Sioux City Compressed Steel has evolved from a single scrap yard into one of the largest metal recycling facilities in the region. With partnership interests in six area yards, we control a significant volume of ferrous and non-ferrous scrap, ensuring a reliable supply for manufacturers while supporting a growing team of dedicated employees.

Our facility is designed for efficiency and supplier convenience. We’ve implemented streamlined processes, state-of-the-art equipment, and advanced material handling systems to keep operations running smoothly. Whether working with industrial clients, demolition contractors, or individual recyclers, we strive to provide fast, fair, and reliable service.

Group of construction workers and managers indoors, holding a banner that reads 'NUCOR NEBRASKA Building Powerful Partnerships Safe Supplier of the Year Sioux City 2024', with an elderly woman using a walker in front.
A large black semi-truck with a flatbed trailer parked on a dirt lot, with trees and blue sky in the background.
Industrial site with large metal pipes, a small white building, and a pile of black gravel, under a clear sky.
An excavator with orange and white paint is moving scrap metal at a salvage yard. Large piles of twisted metal debris are visible around the site.
White tow truck with a black and red hook lift system parked on a concrete lot under a cloudy sky.
A rusty excavator is moving a pile of scrap metal on a construction site.
Pile of crushed and wrecked cars with a large industrial crane lifting debris, under a clear blue sky.

We’re Committed to Industry Standards & Environmental Leadership

As an active and longtime member of the Recycled Material Association (ReMA), we uphold the highest safety, environmental, and ethical standards in the industry. ReMA, often called "The Original Recyclers," sets the benchmark for best practices in metal recycling, and we proudly align our operations with these principles.

We are more than just a scrap yard, we are stewards of sustainability, economic growth, and industrial progress. By investing in cutting-edge technology, optimizing recycling processes, and maintaining strong partnerships across the industry, we continue to lead the way in responsible scrap metal recycling.

Colorful pile of barrels

Your Trusted Recycling Partner

For over 80 years, we have served as a trusted partner for businesses, contractors, and individuals looking to recycle scrap metal efficiently and responsibly. Whether you’re a longtime supplier or a first-time recycler, our team is here to ensure a seamless, professional, and rewarding recycling experience.

The scrap metal recycling industry plays a vital role in sustaining the environment, strengthening the economy, and supporting American manufacturing. By processing and repurposing ferrous and non-ferrous metals, we help conserve natural resources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and minimize landfill waste. Recycling scrap metal requires significantly less energy than refining metal from virgin ores, making it an essential part of a more sustainable future. Sioux City Compressed Steel takes pride in our contributions to environmental responsibility and industrial efficiency. Whether it’s reducing waste, promoting circular economy practices, or supporting domestic and international trade, we’re committed to making a difference one piece of scrap at a time.

Our Affiliates

When Norman Bernstein, Jack Bernstein, and Toby Shine of Shine Bros. Corp. in Spencer, Iowa decided to join forces, they formed TJN Enterprises. TJN consists of scrap yards in Sioux Falls, Watertown, Aberdeen, and Yankton, South Dakota, plus Worthington, Minnesota and Estherville, Iowa.

State Steel Supply is a full-service steel service center offering coil processing, bar stock, laser cutting, shearing, and forming with branches in Omaha and Grand Island, Nebraska, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Spencer and Des Moines, Iowa.

State Steel - Sioux City, Sioux Falls, Spencer, Grand Island, Des Moines, Omaha
TJN Enterprises Inc. - Scrap Recycling

Our Certifications

We prioritize safety and caring for the environment. Our industry certifications show our commitment to high safety and sustainability standards. We update our safety protocols regularly to meet current regulations, ensuring a safe space for employees, suppliers, and the community. Through responsible recycling and innovative methods, we support a cleaner environment. Our certifications reflect our commitment to safety and environmental responsibility, guiding our daily operations. By focusing on these areas, we work towards a sustainable future for our community and the planet.

ReMA
AMTIVO

Give Us A Shout

For over 80 years, Sioux City Compressed Steel has been a trusted leader in scrap metal recycling and industrial metal processing. With state-of-the-art equipment and a commitment to sustainability, we provide efficient, environmentally responsible recycling solutions for businesses, contractors, and individuals. Whether you're looking to sell scrap metal, utilize our roll-off services, or process large-scale industrial materials, our experienced team is here to help. Contact us today and discover why we’re the region’s go-to metal recycling facility.