Scrapping a vehicle can feel like a significant step, especially if you are unsure about the required paperwork or how to properly prepare your car. Understanding the process can make everything smoother, quicker, and stress-free. If your vehicle has reached the end of its life, following the correct steps ensures it is scrapped in a legal, safe, and responsible way.

Documents You Need to Scrap Your Car

The most important document when scrapping a vehicle in the UK is the V5C logbook, also known as the vehicle registration document. This proves that you are the registered keeper of the vehicle and allows the transfer of ownership to be recorded correctly. When handing your vehicle over for scrapping, you should complete the relevant section of the V5C to confirm the vehicle is being transferred to an authorised recycling facility.

If you do not have your V5C logbook, it is still possible to scrap your vehicle, but you should inform the recycling facility in advance. Once the vehicle has been processed, a Certificate of Destruction (CoD) is issued to confirm that the vehicle has been scrapped and removed from DVLA records.

Drivers are also recommended to declare a SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) if the vehicle is no longer being driven before it is scrapped. While MotorGreen handles depollution and dismantling, ensuring the vehicle is correctly declared off the road gives extra peace of mind during the process.

How to Prepare Your Car for Scrapping

Preparing your vehicle properly can help make the scrapping process faster and easier. Start by removing all personal belongings from the vehicle. It is easy to forget items stored in glove boxes, door pockets, or the boot, so it is worth checking carefully.

You should also remove any valuable accessories that you wish to keep, such as phone holders or personal electronics. Number plates can usually remain on the vehicle unless you plan to transfer them to another car.

It is helpful to ensure the vehicle is accessible for collection or delivery. If possible, provide keys and confirm whether the vehicle starts or moves, as this helps the collection team plan safe transportation.

Avoid removing parts such as tyres, batteries, or major components unless advised otherwise. Authorised recycling facilities are equipped to remove and recycle these items safely and in line with environmental regulations.

Proof of identification may be required at the time of collection to confirm ownership of the vehicle and ensure the scrapping process is completed legally. This helps protect both the customer and the recycling facility. All payments for scrap vehicles are made via bank transfer, in line with UK regulations, providing a secure and traceable method of payment.

Scrapping Your Car the Right Way

Scrapping your vehicle through an authorised recycling facility ensures that hazardous materials are handled correctly and reusable parts are recovered responsibly. Following the correct paperwork and preparation steps helps protect both you and the environment, making the process simple and fully compliant with UK regulations.