Common Scrap Metal Selling Scams in the UK — And How to Avoid Them

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Most scrap transactions are straightforward, but there's a small number of scams that come up often enough to be worth knowing before they cost you money.

The rigged weighbridge

Some dishonest buyers use scales that aren't properly calibrated, quietly shorting sellers on the weight of their load. If you're selling regularly and something feels consistently off, ask to see the weighbridge's calibration certificate — a legitimate operator will have one and won't mind showing it.

The "price changed on arrival" trick

A buyer quotes a good price over the phone, then claims the material is a lower grade or more contaminated once you arrive, dropping the price after you've already made the trip. Get quotes in writing where you can, and don't be afraid to walk away if the story changes without a clear reason.

Cash offers from unlicensed buyers

Cash payments for scrap metal have been illegal in the UK since the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 — every legitimate transaction must go through bank transfer or cheque. A buyer offering cash isn't doing you a favour; they're operating outside the law, and it's a clear signal to walk away.

Fake "collection" scams

Someone poses as a scrap collector, takes your material claiming they'll weigh and pay you later, then simply doesn't. This is most common with unsolicited cold callers offering to "clear" scrap for free. Always verify who you're dealing with before handing material over, especially to someone who approached you rather than the other way round.

Phishing and fake invoices

Scrap businesses are increasingly targeted by fake invoices for services never ordered — domain renewals, membership fees, "notification services" — designed to look official enough to get paid without question. Always verify an unexpected invoice against who you actually use for that service before paying it.

How to protect yourself

• Only sell to licensed dealers — check for a valid Scrap Metal Dealers Act licence
• Get quotes in writing where possible
• Never accept cash for scrap — it's illegal, and a red flag in itself
• Verify unexpected invoices before paying, whatever they claim to be for

Sell with confidence

Every buyer on ScrapBays is verified and licensed, so the credential-checking is already done before a quote ever reaches you — one less thing to worry about when you're selling. Sell on ScrapBays →