Scrap Prices Are Falling: Here’s What the Numbers Say

In April 2025, UK scrap prices have fallen by around £10 per tonne, continuing a broader downward trend. The average price for scrapping a car now sits between £230 and £260, depending on weight and condition.

By comparison:

In April 2023, the average scrap car fetched £348.
In April 2024, it dropped to £245, a sharp decline of over 30% year-on-year.
Prices peaked in 2022, with some cars earning upwards of £370–£400.

Today’s figures are the lowest seen in over two years, and there’s more than one reason behind it.

What You Need to Know

Scrap prices in the UK have dropped by £10 per tonne this April.
The average scrap car is now worth around £230–£260, down from over £340 two years ago.
Global trade disruptions and new tariffs on recyclable materials are major contributors.
The U.S. imposed fresh tariffs on scrap and auto parts, shaking the global market.
The EU is tightening export rules, creating oversupply concerns in Europe.
UK steel mills are buying less scrap due to weaker demand.
Scrap yards are adapting by focusing more on part reuse and stockpiling material.
You can still get a decent payout for your scrap car, but the market remains volatile.
Scrap Local explains what’s happening so you can make an informed decision.

Read on for more information!

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Why Are Scrap Prices Falling?

The U.S. Brings in New Tariffs (April 2025)

The U.S. recently introduced a universal 10% import tariff, including on scrap metals and recyclables. A separate 25% tariff on imported cars and car parts also came into effect.

This makes UK scrap more expensive for U.S. buyers, reducing demand and pushing prices down globally. Fewer exports mean more scrap stays in the UK, flooding the domestic market and lowering prices.

The EU Tightens Export Controls

As of early 2025, the EU has started phasing in stricter controls on scrap exports, particularly to developing countries. While the UK is no longer part of the EU, these restrictions still impact us.

More EU scrap could be diverted to the same markets the UK uses, increasing competition and oversupply.
Some UK scrap yards may struggle to compete if EU recyclers offer material at lower prices to maintain export volumes.

Steel Demand in the UK Has Dropped

UK steel mills have reduced their orders, buying up to 15% less scrap compared to last year. With fewer buyers and more scrap circulating, prices fall.

This is partly due to lower construction and manufacturing activity.
Many mills are waiting for demand to return before buying in large quantities again.

Copper and Aluminium Are Volatile, But Not the Main Cause

Copper and aluminium, both found in scrap cars, have fluctuated globally due to market fears. For example:

Copper hit a record high in March 2025, then dropped 10% in April after U.S. tariff announcements.
Aluminium prices have stayed stable but subdued.

Still, these metals make up a smaller portion of a car’s weight, so they’re not the main drivers behind the £10/tonne drop.

What Does This Mean for You?

For Drivers Scrapping Their Cars

Expect lower quotes than previous years, especially for standard vehicles.
A car that fetched £300+ in 2022 may now only get £230–£250.
High-value parts (e.g. alloys, catalytic converters) can still boost your payout.

Should You Scrap Now or Wait?

Let’s be honest: scrap prices could drop further if tariffs and steel demand worsen.

However:

Waiting may cost you more if the vehicle depreciates or deteriorates.
Delays can mean missing the chance to scrap while yards are still offering competitive rates.
If you have an old or damaged vehicle, scrapping it now is often the most reliable option.

Scrap Local gives honest quotes based on current market rates.

For Scrap Yards and Dealers

Many yards are stockpiling scrap in hopes of a rebound.
Others are shifting focus to salvage and parts resale, where margins are more stable.
Exporters face new challenges due to trade barriers, meaning more material is staying onshore.

For the Wider Industry

Recycling businesses are seeing tighter margins and higher admin due to complex customs paperwork and tariffs.
Vehicle manufacturers benefit from cheaper recycled metals, but only if they have steady production levels.
The public may see better offers from government scrappage schemes, which outshine the low market values.

Honest Advice from Scrap Local

Scrap prices fluctuate, but right now, several global factors are putting serious pressure on the market. It’s not just a seasonal dip.

If you’re thinking of scrapping your car:

Scrap now if it’s in poor condition or you’re ready to get rid. (Check out our ‘quiz’ to see if your car is ready to go!)
Hold off only if your car has value as a runner or parts, and you don’t urgently need the money.
Prices might bounce back, but with ongoing tariffs and weak steel demand, there’s no guarantee.

At Scrap Local, we believe in the facts. We’re here to help you make the best decision for your vehicle.

Will scrap prices go back up?

Possibly, but Scrap prices going back up depend on a few key factors:

Steel demand picking up: If UK steel mills increase production, they’ll need more scrap.
Tariff policies easing: Trade restrictions (especially from the U.S. and EU) would need to be reduced or removed.
Export markets reopening: If more countries start importing UK scrap again, prices could recover.

At the moment, the trend is uncertain, so holding out might pay off, but it’s also risky.

Final Word from Scrap Local

Scrap prices are low right now, and we’re not here to sugarcoat it.

At Scrap Local, we’re dedicated to giving you:

Transparent, up-to-date pricing
Honest advice (even if that means holding off)
Fast, free collection and support across the UK

The market may bounce back, but if you’re ready to let your car go, now is still a solid time to scrap before prices fall further.

💬 Need a quote or want to talk it through?

FAQs: Scrap Price Drops and What You Should Know

Why are scrap prices dropping in 2025?

Scrap prices have dropped due to a mix of international tariffs, reduced demand from UK steel mills, and a surplus of scrap on the market.

The U.S. has introduced new tariffs on recyclables and auto parts, while the EU is restricting scrap exports.

These factors are lowering global demand and increasing local supply, pushing prices down.