Environment Agency Licensed ATF · VerifiedCash payments illegal — bank transfer only (Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013)

Frequently asked questions

31 answers across 6 topics — from how your quote is calculated to what happens to your car after collection. Can't find what you need? Email us or call 07990 290516.

Selling Your Car

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What do I need to scrap my car?

Just your V5C logbook (or form V62 if lost), your photo ID (driving licence or passport) and proof of address. We verify everything for the DVLA — you never need to post the logbook yourself.

Do I need to be the registered keeper?

Yes. Under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 we must verify your identity and your right to sell the vehicle before we collect. If the car is not in your name, contact the DVLA first to update the keeper.

Can I scrap a car with no MOT or no keys?

Usually yes. Cars without an MOT are fine — that's exactly why most people scrap them. If you've lost the keys, tell us when you get your quote so we can arrange a suitable collection.

What if my logbook is lost?

You can apply for a replacement V5C using form V62 from the DVLA. We can still process your quote while you wait — just let us know when you get the new logbook.

Can I remove parts before scrapping?

Yes, but tell us when you book the collection. Removing the catalytic converter, battery or alloy wheels changes your quote, because those are priced separately.

Do you take cars that don't run?

Absolutely — a large share of the cars we collect don't start. Our recovery trucks are equipped to winch and roll vehicles that can't be driven.

Can I sell an imported or Cat S/Cat N car?

Yes. Tell us the exact model and any write-off category when you get your quote. It doesn't affect the legal process, but it helps us price accurately and arrange the right collection.

What vehicles do you NOT accept?

We only accept cars and light vans that can be legally dismantled under our ATF permit. We cannot accept vehicles with hazardous waste aboard — please tell us if yours has any.

Valuation & Payment

6
How is my scrap price calculated?

Your quote is based on the vehicle's weight at today's scrap metal rate (steel is around £185 per tonne), plus any catalytic converter, battery and alloy wheel values, minus deductions for condition damage. It's a transparent calculation — you can see the breakdown.

Why do you pay by bank transfer and not cash?

Under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 it is illegal to pay cash for scrap vehicles. All payments are made by BACS bank transfer, usually the same working day as collection.

When will I receive payment?

BACS payments are made on the same working day as collection in most cases, and always within 48 hours. You'll receive a payment confirmation email with the reference.

Is my quote guaranteed?

Yes — your quote is guaranteed for 48 hours from the moment it's issued. If scrap prices have moved when we collect, we only ever pay you the higher of the two figures.

Do you deduct collection costs?

No. Collection is completely free within our nationwide service area. The price we quote is the price you receive.

What bank details do you need?

Account name, sort code and account number. Payment is BACS only — we never ask for your card details, and we will never pay in cash.

Collection & Documentation

5
How do I book a collection?

After you accept your quote, choose a collection slot online — mornings or afternoons, Monday to Saturday. You'll get a confirmation with your reference number and a driver ETA window.

What happens on collection day?

Our licensed driver verifies your ID and the V5C, checks the vehicle matches your quote, takes photos for our records, and pays you by bank transfer. You sign the handover form and keep a copy.

What is a Certificate of Destruction (CoD)?

An official DVLA document confirming your vehicle has been destroyed at an Authorised Treatment Facility. It ends your legal responsibility for the vehicle — tax, insurance and fines all stop.

When do I receive my CoD?

Your CoD is issued within 5 working days of the vehicle being processed at our facility and sent to you by post. We also notify the DVLA electronically on the day of destruction.

Can I cancel my collection?

Yes, free of charge, any time before the driver arrives — just call or email with your reference number. No questions asked.

Environment & Compliance

6
Are you licensed?

Yes. KENT AUTORECYCLE is an Environment Agency–licensed Authorised Treatment Facility. Our ATF licence, environmental permit, scrap metal dealer licence and waste carrier licence are all held and verified — details available on request.

What does 95% recycling mean?

Modern cars are around 95% recyclable by weight. Steel and aluminium are recovered for smelting, batteries and catalysts are refined for precious metals, and fluids, tyres and plastics are processed under our environmental permit.

How do you dispose of fluids and hazardous waste?

All fluids — fuel, oil, coolant, brake fluid, screen wash — are drained and stored in bunded containers, then collected by licensed waste carriers. Airbags are deployed safely and batteries removed for recycling.

Is cash payment really illegal?

Yes. The Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 makes it an offence to pay or receive cash for scrap metal, including cars. That's why every KENT AUTORECYCLE payment is a traceable bank transfer.

Do you sell parts from the cars you take?

Yes. Usable parts are tested, graded A–D and sold through our Shop Parts catalogue. Anything not resold is crushed and the materials recovered — nothing goes to landfill that can be recycled.

Can I visit your facility?

We welcome visits by appointment. You'll see our permitted storage areas, de-pollution bay and documentation office. Just contact us to arrange a time.

Used Parts

5
How are your parts graded?

A = excellent, minimal wear. B = good with light cosmetic wear. C = fair with visible wear or minor damage. D = salvage, needs work. Every part is photographed and tested before listing.

Will a part definitely fit my car?

Each listing shows the exact vehicle it was removed from, including year range. If you're unsure, use the fitment notes or contact us with your registration and we'll check for you.

Do you offer a warranty on parts?

Yes — 14-day no-quibble returns and a 30-day warranty on mechanical parts. Electrical items are tested before despatch.

How much is delivery?

Delivery is calculated at checkout. Large panels are palletised and delivered to your door; small items go by courier. Collection from our yard is free.

Can I search by my registration number?

Coming soon — the shop will let you enter your registration to see only parts that fit your exact vehicle. For now, filter by make and model.

General

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Q: Admin content test (EDITED)?

This FAQ was EDITED by the admin content manager during QA — survives publish.

Still have a question?

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Kent Autorecycle Ltd — ATF Licence held and verified. Cash payments illegal — bank transfer only (Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013).