Scrap Car FAQs

How much will I get for my scrap car?

The price depends on the weight of your vehicle and the current scrap metal rate. A typical family hatchback might weigh around 1,000kg, while a larger estate or 4x4 could be closer to 1,500kg or more. Scrap metal prices fluctuate weekly based on commodity markets, so quotes are always given fresh when you call. We'll ask for your registration and a few details about the car's condition, then give you an honest figure over the phone. No waiting around for email quotes or callback promises.

Do I need any documents to scrap my car?

You'll need the V5C logbook (the registration document) and photo ID that matches the name on the logbook. If you've lost the V5C, you can apply for a replacement through the DVLA, though that takes a week or two. Alternatively, we can still collect the vehicle if you have other proof of ownership and ID, but the process takes a little longer because we need to verify everything before payment clears. If there's outstanding finance on the car, that needs settling before we can collect.

How quickly can you collect my car?

We aim for same-day collection across every London borough, though it depends on where you are and how the traffic's moving. A job in Wandsworth on a clear Tuesday morning is straightforward. A pickup in Enfield during Friday rush hour takes longer to schedule. When you call, we'll give you a realistic time window based on our route that day. Most collections happen within 24 hours of your initial call. If you're not in a rush, we can book you in for a convenient date later in the week.

What happens to my car after collection?

Every vehicle goes to an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) where it's legally depolluted and dismantled. Fluids like oil, coolant, and brake fluid are drained and disposed of safely. Batteries, tyres, and catalytic converters are removed. Usable parts might be resold, though most older scrap cars are crushed and the metal recycled. The ATF issues a Certificate of Destruction, which proves the car has been scrapped properly. We handle the DVLA notification on your behalf so you're no longer the registered keeper.

When do I get paid?

Payment transfers to your bank account the moment your car is loaded onto the truck. We don't wait until we're back at the yard or until the vehicle reaches the ATF. You'll get a text or notification from your bank while we're still outside your house. It's a straight bank transfer, no cheques or cash. You'll need to give us your account details when we arrange collection.

Can you collect if my car doesn't run?

Absolutely. Most of the cars we collect are non-runners. Seized engines, snapped cambelt, gearbox failure, accident damage, we've seen it all. As long as we can access the vehicle and load it safely, we'll take it. If your car is stuck on a driveway or a controlled parking bay, let us know when you book so we can bring the right recovery setup. Vehicles on blocks or with wheels missing need a bit more notice, but we'll still collect them.

Do I need to tell the DVLA I've scrapped my car?

We notify the DVLA on your behalf once the vehicle reaches the ATF and the Certificate of Destruction is issued. You'll receive confirmation from the DVLA within a few weeks. You should also cancel your insurance and any direct debit for road tax. If you taxed the car, any full months remaining will be refunded automatically by the DVLA. Keep records of the collection and payment in case you need to prove the car was scrapped.

What if I don't have the keys?

Missing keys aren't a dealbreaker. We can still load and transport the car without them. It just means we need to winch it onto the truck rather than rolling it up the ramp. Let us know when you call so the driver comes prepared. The scrap value stays the same whether you have keys or not.