Short answer: In England and Wales, scrap metal dealers generally need a licence from their local council under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013, either a site licence for a fixed yard or a collector's licence for those who collect from door to door, and operating without one is an offence, so a legitimate dealer should be able to show you their licence, while Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own separate licensing arrangements.
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List Free →Why licensing exists
Licensing was introduced mainly to make it harder for stolen metal to be sold on, by making dealers accountable to their local council and requiring them to keep proper records.
What it covers
A licence is granted by a local council and is tied to the dealer and, for a site licence, to the site, which is why the details on a licence matter.
Why the rules vary across the UK
England and Wales operate under one Act while Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own rules, so check the arrangements for the part of the UK where you are selling.
How ScrapTrade Fits In
ScrapTrade buyers are verified, which gives you an extra layer of checking alongside any licence they hold.
Knowing the rules helps you spot a legitimate buyer. ScrapTrade connects you with verified buyers, transparent weighing and escrow-protected payments.
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