How to Make Money from Your Old Scrap Metal

Published 12 October 2019

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4.6 from 19 Google reviewsAuthorised Treatment Facility, South Croydon

A black Volkswagen Golf on the SSC Motors recovery truck
Volkswagen Golf, collected in Coulsdon

While you’ll often hear about how to get the best price for scrapping your car, did you also know that you could be making money from some of the old metal items you have lying around your property? Here’s everything you need to know about selling your scrap metal.

Why Sell Your Scrap Metal?

Most people would agree that some extra cash would come in handy, whether it’s saving towards a family holiday or finally getting some home improvements sorted. Selling your old scrap metal is a fast and easy way to raise some additional funds. Even if your item no longer functions or it’s damaged, if it contains certain types of metal, it could be worth something. Many people simply throw items away or take them to a waste recycling tip without realising they could make some money out of the metal present on the unwanted items.

Ferrous vs Non-Ferrous Metal Items

When deciphering which of your items are ideal for a scrap dealer, they may request you only provide non-ferrous metals. These are metals which don’t contain iron (so don’t rust easily), including aluminium, brass, copper, lead and some types of stainless steel. Look for items which may contain high amounts of non-ferrous metals, including copper wires, catalytic converters, batteries and other items which aren’t magnetic. You may even find parts of old appliances, including nuts, bolts, screws and old plumbing parts such as pipes and faucets are made of valuable metals. You could also think about whether there’s anything in your property you’ll be replacing soon which you could also sell for scrap, including aluminium window frames. It’s good practice to separate the metal from the non-metal parts of the item if possible to help you get the best price, including any plastic casing.

Who Buys Scrap Metal?

When selling your scrap metal, it’s important only to use a reputable dealer who is licensed to offer this type of service. In 2013, there were some significant amendments made to the Scrap Metal Dealers Act, which now means it’s illegal for companies to pay for scrap metal with cash. The company you choose should have a license issued by their local authority, so always request to see this if you’re unsure about any of the services they’re offering.

Our Scrap Metal Collection Service

We understand the importance of a simple process for our customers. It means you know you can always exchange your non-ferrous metals as quickly and as easily as possible. You don’t have to make a special trip. When you get in touch, we’ll come straight to you, weighing your items on our vehicle scales. We’ll then provide a competitive, free quotation. If you choose to accept, we can make a direct payment, taking your metal away for recycling at an Authorised Treatment Facility.

We offer scrap metal collection services across South London, Croydon and Surrey locations, including Crystal Palace, Kingswood and Merstham. Call now on 020 8406 4181 to get started.

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Any make, any condition. If it has wheels or it’s metal, we’ll take it.

  • Cars
  • Vans
  • Non-runners
  • MOT failures
  • Crash damage
  • Motorbikes
  • Caravans
  • 4x4s
  • Scrap metal
  • Catalytic converters

What people say about Rick

4.6 from 19 reviews on Google

“Great service, easy, friendly and efficient. I helped an elderly friend to scrap her old car from an awkward location with limited access. The car had a seized clutch so couldn't move under it's own power, or so I thought, but Rick had an impressive trick to get it moving, and it took barely 5 seconds to get it down the drive and straight up onto his flat-bed truck. A sight to behold!!”
Stephen D., Google review
“Professional, Courteous and Quick. Rang on a Monday for a Weds pickup (which suited me), I'm sure pick up could have been same day if I had wanted it. Rick arrived exactly when he said. Good price received and car put onto pick up, V5 all completed and car gone within 5 mins. Rick we a joy to deal with. I would thoroughly recommend Rick and SSC...”
Michael K., Google review
“So impressed with how quickly everything was sorted! We had a lot of scrap metal left over from building work and Ricky was here in a flash. No problem with anything at all, he just took everything. Saved us so much effort than having to go to the dump, and we got some money too!”
Karen M., Google review

Genuine reviews from our Google Business Profile, checked weekly (last updated 23 October 2026). Read all reviews

Got a car to scrap?

Or ring 020 8406 4181 or 07716 551934 – we’re open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.