UK Scrap & Salvage Trends 2025

In the first half of 2025, UK scrap car values have fallen by over 30%, dropping from an average of £348 in 2023 to as low as £230 in many areas.

Meanwhile, EV insurance premiums remain around 50% higher than petrol equivalents, making write-offs more common and resale opportunities more complex.

The scrap and salvage industry in 2025 is under pressure. From falling metal values and growing EV volumes to Mandatory Digital Waste Tracking and rising costs, UK dealers are facing big changes. Staying compliant, keeping efficient and informed is now more important than ever.

The industry is moving fast, so whether you’re running your own yard, selling used car parts, or handling salvage vehicles, this guide will break down how to stay ahead in 2025.

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Metal price fluctuations

One of the biggest talking points in 2025 is the continued instability of scrap metal prices.

ferrous prices dropped in April due to global trade tensions and material oversupply.
Non-ferrous metals like copper and aluminium have seen sharp peaks followed by rapid declines.
Tariffs and fuel costs are adding to transport and processing pressure.

For yards and exporters, staying competitive requires future planning and real-time tracking to keep up.

Learn more:

Mandatory Digital Waste Tracking (MDWT)

The MDWT rollout is one of the most impactful regulatory changes of 2025. Every waste movement, including scrap and salvage vehicles, must now be digitally recorded.

Increased compliance burden for independent yards
Failure to comply risks fines and revoked licences
Systems must be updated to capture vehicle movements, weights, and processing steps.

Read more:

The EV and Hybrid dismantling challenge

The growing number of electric and hybrid vehicles in 2025 is changing how salvage and scrap businesses operate, presenting both risks and opportunities.

EVs require specialist battery handling and safety training. Read our guide on RECOVAS: How the UK built its first circular EV battery supply chain
Fewer parts can be reused or sold compared to traditional vehicles.
Insurance write-offs are increasing, but not all yards are equipped to handle them.

Demand for Used Parts is Surging

With the cost of living crisis still a major concern and supply chains tightening, more customers are turning to green parts.

Facebook and eBay sales are up for quality used car parts
Salvage vehicles are a key source of reusable stock
Scrapyards with good storage and listing systems are winning more business.

Platforms like Parts Local allow businesses to monetise dismantled vehicles more efficiently and reach a UK-wide audience.

CAZ Expansion and emissions pressure

Clean Air Zones are growing. London, Birmingham, and now smaller cities are implementing tighter vehicle access rules. This impacts both collections and resale.

Older diesel cars are harder to sell due to emissions rules
Scrapping is becoming the only viable route for many vehicles
Buyers are shifting to electric or low-emission models, pushing down resale prices.

These changes are expected to intensify in the second half of 2025.

Investment in Digital Tools is Increasing

Smart software and digital infrastructure are becoming essential across the industry.

CRM and quoting tools are speeding up response times.
Automated vehicle tracking and payment workflows are reducing admin costs.
Real-time stock systems are improving dismantling profits.

Scrap Local’s bespoke platform enables agents to manage leads, collections, and customer updates efficiently, eliminating the need for manual chasing.

Sound good?

Become an agent with Scrap Local

Stay Ready, Stay Resilient

2025 is not the year to stand still. With the scrap and salvage industry changing fast, those who adapt will thrive.

From embracing new regulations to tapping into parts demand and smarter tech, there’s still plenty of room to grow.

Want help staying ahead of the curve?

Claim your free business listing with Scrap Local to streamline your business and boost your returns.

FAQs: UK Scrap and Salvage Trends 2025

Discover what’s changing in the UK scrap and salvage industry in 2025. Get ahead with insights on prices, EVs, regulations, and digital tools.