If your van is ready for the great scrapheap in the sky, there are a number of steps you will need to take. Fortunately, it’s generally much easier than selling a vehicle privately. However, you want to ensure you pick the right scrap collection service.
Scrapping a vehicle with Sell The Van makes the process hassle-free, and we can even earn you money. Whether your van has broken down, failed its MOT, or has become too expensive to run, we can collect it from anywhere in the UK. Located in Horton, Slough, we’re particularly ideal for those selling in the local area.
Here’s your go-to scrap van checklist, plus a look at the environmental benefits of scrapping your van the right way.
What to Do Before a Collection
There are a number of steps that are worth taking before calling scrap dealers, including:
1. Remove Any Personal Belongings
You don’t want to leave anything important behind. Vans often double as a form of storage, so don’t forget to check everywhere: under seats, inside glove boxes, side compartments. From clothing to work gear and gadgets, you might be surprised what you find.
2. Take Off the Number Plates (Optional)
Although it’s not mandatory to remove numberplates, if you want to keep them for another vehicle (or as a keepsake) it’s worth taking them off first.
3. Find Your V5C Logbook
Otherwise known as the vehicle’s registration document, a vehicle can be scrapped with a V5C logbook. But it significantly speeds things up, since it proves you’re the registered keeper.
If you don’t have it, let us know in advance so we can guide you through the process.
4. Cancel Your Insurance
Insurance is expensive and you don’t want to pay anymore than you need! Don’t forget to contact the insurer to cancel the policy. Even if you paid upfront, you might still be eligible for a refund for any remaining months.
5. Inform the DVLA
It’s vital to let the DVLA know if you scrap a vehicle. When you use a licensed Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) like Sell The Van works with, you’ll receive a Certificate of Destruction.
Informing the DVLA can easily be done online, or by post using section 9 (or section 4 on newer V5Cs).
6. Deal with Any Remaining Fuel
If your van is still operational, it’s worth using up the fuel before we collect it. However, if it can no longer be driven, fear now— we can tow it. However, don’t try draining fuel yourself unless you know how to do it. It’s risky and illegal without proper equipment and licensing.
7. Check for Valuables You Can Remove
If you’re good with mechanics, you might want to remove any expensive music players or allow wheels. In such cases, it’s better to let any scrap company know, because the final scrap value might be affected.
How Sell The Van Makes It Easy
Located in Horton, Slough, Sell The Van purchases vehicles in all conditions. We collect vans from across the area — Slough, Windsor, Maidenhead, Uxbridge, Reading, and more — and ensure every vehicle is processed legally and responsibly.
Fully licenced, we ensure your van is dismantled and is recycled to the latest environmental standards in the UK. We’ll ensure you always enjoy getting a fair quote, speedy collection, and help with all the paperwork.
Benefits of Scrapping Your Van the Right Way
If you’re thinking of updating an old van, you can help reduce the impact of your vehicle on the environment. Old vans tend to have poor fuel efficiency and outdated emissions controls. Taking them off the road is better for both you and the environment.
We always make sure that any materials which can be recycled, will be. That includes metal, rubber, glass, plastics, and fluids.
What Happens During the Scrapping Process?
Here’s a quick breakdown of what happens once we collect your van:
- Fluids and hazardous materials are removed safely.
- Usable parts are taken out and tested for resale.
- What’s left is crushed and sorted into recyclable metals and materials.
- Materials are sent off to be melted down and reused.
This process follows strict environmental guidelines set by the Environment Agency.
Why It Pays to Use a Trusted Local Service
Choosing a reputable van scrap company isn’t just about convenience — it’s about protecting yourself. Dodgy dealers may offer cash (which is illegal under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013) or won’t notify the DVLA properly, putting you at risk for fines or liability.
At Sell The Van, we’re fully compliant, and we pay via secure bank transfer with a full receipt. No hassle. No hidden fees.
So if your van’s ready for its final trip, let us take it from here. Contact Sell The Van today for a free quote and fast collection.