The Dos and Don'ts of Scrapping a Car in the UK

If you have an old or damaged car that's beyond repair, scrapping it can be a sensible and responsible choice. Not only does it help you get rid of a vehicle that's no longer usable, but it also contributes to environmental sustainability by recycling its materials. However, if you're thinking "Can I scrap a car near me?  ", there are some important dos and don'ts to keep in mind to ensure a smooth legal process. In this article, we'll explore the essential guidelines to follow when scrapping a car.

Do: Choose an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF)

When it comes to scrapping a car, it's crucial to choose an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) that complies with environmental regulations and holds the necessary licences. ATFs are authorised by the Environment Agency or the Scottish Environment Protection Agency and are equipped to handle the de-pollution and recycling of end-of-life vehicles. Opting for an ATF guarantees that your car will be dismantled and disposed of in an environmentally friendly and legally compliant manner. Abbey Scrap Cars issue a Cerificate of Destruction (COD's) on all disposed vehicles on behalf of the DVLA.

Don't: Accept Cash Payments

While it may be tempting to accept cash payments for scrapping your car, it's important to know that it is illegal in the UK. The Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 prohibits cash transactions for scrap metal, including vehicles. Legitimate scrap car dealers and ATFs will pay you via bank transfer or issue a cheque. This ensures transparency and a paper trail for the transaction.

Do: Sell to an Authorise Treatment Facility (ATF)

Abbey Scrap Cars, as a licensed Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) will notify the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) about the disposal. By informing the DVLA, we remove any legal responsibilities associated with the vehicle, such as road tax. Failing to inform the DVLA could lead to unnecessary fines or penalties, so your ATF will deal with all the paperwork accordingly and we will issue you with a Certificate of Destruction (COD) on behalf of the DVLA.

Do: Remove Personal Belongings and Documentation

Before handing over your car for scrapping, be sure to remove all personal belongings and important documents. Double-check the glove compartment, boot, and any other storage areas to ensure you haven't left anything behind. Very often we find in vehicles including mobile phones, wallets, and jewellery, which we endeavour to return to the owner.

Do: Check reviews of your chosen Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF)

Abbey Scrap Cars have over 5,300 reviews , with 98% being 5 stars.

Get Your Car Scrapped the Right Way

Scrapping a car in the UK  can be a straightforward process if you follow the dos and don'ts outlined in this article. By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a legal, environmentally friendly, and hassle-free experience when scrapping your car.