Around 1 million cars are scrapped every year across the UK. This figure takes into account all of the cars that are scrapped through an official Government or dealership initiative as well as all those owners who scrap their vehicles privately.

If you would prefer to scrap your vehicle yourself, the process is actually far more straightforward than you might think. If you would like to learn more, this article will provide an overview.

Car Scrappage Regulations

Before we begin, there are a few bits of information you need to be mindful of. The first is that your car is scrapped through an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) who have been licensed by the Environmental Agency.

This is to ensure that best practise is adhered to and that your recycled vehicle is handled properly and safely.

You also need to make sure that you receive a Certificate of Destruction once your vehicle has been scrapped. This is a legal requirement and is your proof that you are no longer responsible for your vehicle.

Finally, you should never be offered or accept cash for handing over your vehicle to a scrap yard. There needs to be a paper trail so a cheque or bank transfer should be the only options.

V5C Vehicle Registration Form

Although your ATF will notify the DVLA of your car being scrapped, it is still your responsibility to complete and return section 9 of your vehicles logbook or V5. This is a legal requirement and in conjunction with your Certificate of Destruction will alleviate you of any further responsibility.

Personalised Registration Plates

If you have a cherished plate registered to the vehicle in question, you need to have it removed and transferred before undertaking the scrapping process. The form required is known as the V317 which needs to be filled out and returned to the DVLA. Failure to do so could result in the loss of your number plate.

Keeping Parts of Your Vehicle Before Scrapping

Many owners choose to upgrade the alloy wheels or exhaust systems of their vehicles. These parts are reusable and are often worth a fair amount of money – it is for this reason that it might be worth removing them before you commit to scrapping the vehicle.

Simply remove the parts and notify the DVLA that the vehicle is now off the road or SORN. You can then complete the scrappage process as required.

Scrapping Your Car

Now you’re aware of the legalities, all that’s left to do is locate your nearest ATF. This can be done by performing a simple web search or by looking through your local directory. Car scrapping in Birmingham is widely available through a number of scrap yards so you won’t be short of choice. If you’re slightly further afield, there are still many yards operating within the West Midlands who will be able to assist.

Scrapping your car provides a range of benefits and is also environmentally friendly. If you were thinking about it there is no better time to get it done.