Short answer: In England and Wales, dealers are generally not allowed to pay for scrap metal in cash and must pay by cheque or electronic transfer instead, because cash payments make it too easy to launder stolen metal, so a dealer who offers cash is either breaking the rules or taking a risk, and an electronic payment that leaves a record is normal for a legitimate business.
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List Free →Why cash was restricted
A cash trade leaves little record of who sold what to whom, which suited those selling stolen metal, so the rules require payment methods that leave a trail.
What payment should look like
A cheque or an electronic transfer into an account that can be linked to the seller is the standard method, which is also easier for you to prove.
Why an offer of cash is a red flag
A buyer offering cash for scrap in England or Wales is not following the rules, and that tells you something about how they run their business.
How ScrapTrade Fits In
ScrapTrade pays through escrow into your account, so payment is traceable and secure.
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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