How to scrap a car in Norfolk: the five steps, and what the DVLA needs from you

Every week we talk to people who have been putting off scrapping a car because they are not sure how it works, whether they will be left with a fine, or what to do about the logbook. The process is short. Here it is, start to finish.

1. Get a quote from the registration

Call us on 01603 916893 or use the form on any page of this site. We look the registration up, confirm the make and model, and quote from the vehicle's weight and the metal market on the day. Heavier vehicles are worth more: a Mondeo, a Land Rover or a van is worth more than a supermini. The figure we give you is the figure you are paid, provided the car is as you described it.

2. Arrange a collection time

Collection is free anywhere in Norfolk and Suffolk, at a time to suit you, the same day where we can. Our drivers are on the road 24 hours a day, including weekends and bank holidays. The car does not need to run, have keys or an MOT. If it is on a tight close, a farm track or a caravan site, tell us so we send the right recovery truck.

3. Have the logbook ready, or not

The V5C logbook makes the paperwork quicker, but you can scrap a car without one. We complete the DVLA notification with you on the doorstep, and if the V5C is missing we can supply the form. You will need to prove you are the keeper or have the keeper's authority. A car on finance cannot be scrapped until the finance is settled.

4. The driver collects, you are paid

On collection the driver completes the DVLA paperwork with you, gives you a Waste Transfer Note and pays you by PayPal, bank transfer or cheque. Scrap metal dealers in England are not allowed to pay cash, which is why every reputable yard pays electronically or by cheque.

5. The Certificate of Destruction

The vehicle goes to our Authorised Treatment Facility, regulated by the Environment Agency, where the fluids are drained, reusable parts are recovered and the shell is recycled. A Certificate of Destruction is issued. From that point you are no longer the keeper, and the DVLA will refund any full months of tax remaining once they have the notification. Keep the certificate with your Waste Transfer Note: together they are your proof that the car was dealt with legally.

Three things people get wrong

• Selling to a stranger with a van. If the car is not destroyed at an ATF you stay the keeper on the DVLA's records, and the fines for whatever it does next come to you.
• Leaving a private plate on the car. Apply to the DVLA to take it off before collection. Once the car has a Certificate of Destruction the registration goes with it.
• Cancelling the insurance early. Cancel it after the car has gone, not before, so it is covered on the drive until then.

Questions? Our FAQs cover the rest, or call us. We have been collecting scrap cars across Norfolk and Suffolk since 1989.