What are the main stages of scrapping a car from start to finish?

Scrapping a car isn’t just a single action — it’s a process that includes legal, environmental, and financial steps. Whether your car is at the end of its life or you’re just ready to let it go, understanding each stage ensures you stay compliant and get everything you’re owed. At blackburnscrapyard.co.uk, we’ve simplified this for hundreds of drivers. Here’s the full step-by-step process of how scrapping a car works, from start to finish.

1. Preparation

Before arranging anything, start by removing all your personal belongings from the car — check gloveboxes, under seats, boot, and compartments. If you have a personalised number plate, apply to retain it via the DVLA before the car is scrapped. Next, locate your V5C (logbook) and a valid form of ID. Without these, some ATFs may refuse to accept the car. You should also decide if you’ll include service records or other paperwork — not essential, but useful in some cases.

2. Choose a Licensed ATF

Only scrap your vehicle through a licensed Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF). These scrapyards are government-approved to handle vehicle dismantling and ensure environmental rules are followed. Get a quote from a local ATF — blackburnscrapyard.co.uk offers instant quotes with free collection across the region. You can choose drop-off or home pickup, depending on your car’s condition and your availability.

3. Handover the Car

When handing over your vehicle, you’ll be asked to present ID and the V5C logbook. Do not give the entire V5C away. You should tear off and keep the yellow slip (Section 9 on older V5Cs, Section 4 on newer ones) — this is your part to notify the DVLA. The rest of the logbook can be given to the scrapyard. If you've chosen collection, this all happens at your door — no trip to the site required.

4. Notify DVLA

This is a crucial step. Use the yellow slip from the V5C to notify DVLA by post, or go online to the GOV.UK scrap notification service. You’ll need the 11-digit reference from your logbook to do this. Many ATFs also notify DVLA electronically, but it’s always wise to do your part too. Once processed, DVLA removes you as the registered keeper and stops the tax and enforcement clock.

5. Certificate of Destruction Issued

After the vehicle is dismantled, the ATF will issue a Certificate of Destruction (CoD) — usually within a few business days. This confirms the vehicle has been destroyed and will not return to the road. The ATF may give this to you directly, or it may come by email or post from the DVLA. Keep this for your records — it’s your final proof the car is no longer your responsibility.

6. What Happens After

Once the vehicle is marked as scrapped and DVLA has updated the record, you’ll receive a confirmation letter in the post. If you had any unused road tax, a refund will be issued (usually as a cheque to the name and address on file). You should also call your insurer to cancel or transfer your policy. If you’ve paid upfront, you might be entitled to a refund — ask about any admin fees. If you were paying monthly, cancellation stops future charges.

How Long Does the Whole Process Take?

In most cases, from booking to collection to receiving your confirmation and refund, the entire process can be completed in 7–14 days. Some online DVLA updates happen the same day. Postal confirmations and refunds can take longer depending on processing speed. Our goal is to complete all steps quickly and efficiently so you can move on without worry.

Quick Checklist for Scrapping a Car

Get a scrap quote today and we’ll guide you through every stage from start to finish — fast, legal, and hassle-free.

Useful Resources

• GOV.UK – How to Scrap a Car
• ScrapCarNetwork – Legal Scrapping Steps
• Contact BlackburnScrapyard.co.uk if you need assistance

Want to make sure nothing is missed? Talk to our team — we’ll walk you through it, step by step.