How to Scrap My Car in the UK: Easy 5-Step Guide 2025

Last updated on: September 10, 2025.

How to Scrap My Car - Guide

Deciding to scrap your car can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. We’ll guide you from getting a top quote to notifying the DVLA you’ve scrapped your car online – so it’s all sorted, no hassle.

As a DVLA-approved scrap car service, we’ve simplified the entire process into 5 essential steps. This guide will ensure you get the best scrap car price, stay on the right side of the law, and have a completely hassle-free experience.

The 5 Basics You MUST Know Before Scrapping Your Car

1. Decide if it’s Time to Scrap

Ask yourself:

  • Are repairs worth more than the car?
  • Did it fail its MOT on expensive faults?
  • Is it just sitting there, costing you money?
    If yes, scrapping is your most sensible financial move.

2. Use a Licensed Scrapyard (ATF)

You must, by law, use an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF). We are a fully licensed ATF, so everything is 100% legal and eco-friendly.

3. Get & Compare Quotes

Never take the first offer.

  • Get a baseline quote from us in 30 seconds.
  • Get 2-3 other quotes for comparison.
    This is the only way to guarantee you get a fair price.

Try our Free Scrap Car Value Calculator!

But it could be worth more! Share a few details to get the best offer.

Get Your Car's Real Value!

4. Book Your Collection

A reputable service will:

  • Offer a convenient time slot.
  • Call 30 mins before they arrive.
  • Provide free towing with the right equipment.

5. Get Paid & Sort the DVLA

After Getting paid, notify the DVLA for you, to ensure you avoid any fines. You will receive your Certificate of Destruction as proof.

💡 Usefull Tips and FAQs

What documents do I need?

You MUST have:

  • The V5C (logbook)
  • A Photo ID
    • UK Driving Licence
    • Valid UK Passport
    • Valid UK Biometric Immigration Document
    • Valid Passport issued by a European Economic Area (EEA) state
  • An Address Proof
    • Utility bill: (gas, electricity, or water)
    • Bank statement
    • Council tax bill

Look Up Current Scrap Metal Prices

Your car’s value is directly tied to the global price of steel and non-ferrous metals. A heavier car will generally be worth more as scrap.

Compare Prices, Not Just Pounds

When comparing quotes, look beyond the number.

  • Does the price include free collection?
  • Are there any hidden fees?

We guarantee our quote is all-inclusive – the price we say is the price you get.

Get Maximum Value: Remove Sellable Items

Before we collect your car, it’s worth taking a quick look for bits that could be worth extra cash sold separately. This is where you can add £100s to your car’s value.

  • Alloy wheels
  • Stereo systems or sat-nav units
  • Car Battery
  • Catalytic converter

How to Notify the DVLA You’ve Scrapped Your Car

This is the most important step to avoid a £1000 fine.

  • When you use an ATF, they must notify the DVLA that they have your car.
  • You must also inform the DVLA to officially end your responsibility for the car. Use the 12-digit reference number from your Certificate of Destruction.

Receive Your Certificate of Destruction (CoD)

A legitimate ATF will issue you a Certificate of Destruction (CoD). This is your legal proof that the car has been scrapped.


Why Choose Us? More Than Just a Quote.

  • ✅ Rated ‘Excellent’ on TrustPilot
  • ✅ 12+ Years in the Business
  • ✅ DVLA and Environment Agency Approved ATF
  • ✅ Same-Day Service – Fast, reliable and FREE scrap car removal
  • ✅ Get Paid on Collection – No waiting

The process is the same across the UK, but prices and services can vary. As a London-based service, we offer:

  • Free collection across:
  • Higher prices due to high local demand for parts and our low operational costs.
  • Expert knowledge of London-specific logistics and DVLA procedures.

Get your Scrap Quote Now!


Ready to scrap your car the right way? Get your guaranteed best price today

Click for Your Instant Quote or Call us on 020 8087 2308

    Scrap My Car London | Scrap My Car in East and West Sussex

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