Scrap Collection Costs Scope of Works Survey & classify metal items (ferrous, non‑ferrous, WEEE) and confirm they’re safe to move. Disconnect, drain or isol...
Scrap metal collection in the UK is often free for collectible quantities — most scrap dealers will collect metal items for free if they're driving past anyway, and pay you a small amount for valuable metals. For one-off items: £0–£60 typical (often free for fridges, washing machines, and scrap-suitable items they can recycle for value).
The economic logic: scrap metal has real recycling value (steel £100-£200/tonne, aluminium £700-£1,200/tonne, copper £4,000-£6,000/tonne in 2026 prices). Reputable scrap dealers absorb collection costs because they make money on the metal.
Typical UK scrap collection costs
| Item / service | Typical price |
|---|---|
| Fridge / freezer collection | £0–£40 |
| Washing machine / tumble dryer | £0–£30 (often free) |
| Scrap car | Pay £30-£200+ to you |
| Catalytic converter (declared) | Pay £40-£300+ to you |
| Mixed scrap pile (per visit) | £0–£80 (often paid) |
| Cast iron items (radiators, baths) | £0–£40 (often free) |
| Aluminium items | Often paid |
| Copper / brass items | Paid |
| Sheet metal (radiators, gutters) | Often free |
What's accepted as scrap
- Ferrous metals (steel, iron) — most common. Old radiators, white goods, sheet metal, cast iron pots.
- Non-ferrous metals (aluminium, copper, brass, lead) — higher value. Old plumbing pipes, electrical wiring, taps, brass fittings.
- Precious metals — gold, silver, platinum (in plated form). Specialist dealers.
- WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) — TVs, computers, kitchen appliances. Often collected free under WEEE regulations.
- Vehicles — scrap cars typically pay you £30-£200+ depending on weight and condition. Specialist scrap-car-collection services.
- Mixed metal scrap — the typical garage / shed clear-out.
The vehicle scrap process
For end-of-life UK vehicles:
- Find an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) — DVLA listing.
- Vehicle scrap dealer collects (often same day, often free).
- Dealer pays you for the scrap value (£30-£200+ depending on vehicle).
- You receive Certificate of Destruction (CoD) — legally important.
- Notify DVLA the vehicle has been scrapped (CoD generated automatically by ATF).
- Cancel insurance and SORN registration.
Things people often miss
- Cash for scrap is illegal — Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 banned cash payments. Reputable dealers pay by bank transfer or cheque only. Anyone offering cash is operating illegally.
- ID required for scrap transactions — driving licence, passport, or utility bill. Anti-fraud measure.
- Catalytic converter theft — major UK problem. Sale of stolen cats requires ID and traceability. Don't sell unless you can prove ownership.
- Vehicle Certificate of Destruction — essential. Without CoD, you remain liable for the vehicle (insurance, SORN, road tax). Always get CoD when scrapping a car.
- Council bulky waste vs scrap — many "rubbish" items have scrap value. Always check before paying for council bulky collection of metal items.
- WEEE collection is free — when you buy new electrical items, retailers must offer free takeback of equivalent old items under WEEE regulations.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay to scrap a fridge?
Many local scrap dealers collect fridges and freezers free, especially modern ones with valuable copper. Some council bulky waste services charge £20-£40 per appliance — compare both before deciding.
How much will I get for my scrap car?
£30-£200 typically for end-of-life UK vehicles, depending on weight (heavier = more) and any salvageable components. Premium for vehicles with intact catalytic converters, working batteries, or particular parts in demand.
Is scrap collection legal?
Yes, but the dealer must hold a Scrap Metal Dealer Licence (issued by the local council under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013). Always ask for licence number; verify with council if uncertain. Never accept cash payment — banned since 2013.
What about copper pipes and electrical wire?
Both have significant scrap value (copper £4,000-£6,000/tonne). Pipes from heating systems, old plumbing, electrical mains cable. Expect £5-£20+ per kg of clean copper.
Can I get cash for scrap?
No — illegal in the UK since 2013. Bank transfer or cheque only. Anyone offering cash is operating illegally; their licence is at risk and you should refuse the transaction.
What's the difference between scrap dealer and rubbish removal?
Scrap dealer: focuses on metal value, often pays you for valuable items, free or low-cost collection. Rubbish removal: charges by volume regardless of contents, takes everything to mixed disposal. For metal-heavy waste, scrap dealer is much cheaper.
Want a local pro to handle this? A licensed Scrap Metal Dealer (council-licensed) is the right choice for metal items. For end-of-life vehicles, an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) provides legal Certificate of Destruction. Always check licence before transacting.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
