If you’ve got scrap metal lying around, you could be sitting on a bit of extra cash. Whether it’s old appliances, tools, car parts, copper pipes or leftover metal construction waste, recycling metal not only puts money in your pocket but also helps the environment. At Ace Breakers, we’re one of Kent’s leading scrap metal merchants, offering top prices for a wide range of ferrous and non-ferrous metals. But how does it all work? What metal do we accept? And how can you get the best price? Let’s break it down.
Ferrous vs Non-Ferrous Metals: What’s the Difference?
Before you bring in your scrap, it’s worth knowing what type of metal you’ve got, as this affects how much you’ll be paid. Scrap metal falls into two main categories; ferrous and non-ferrous.
Ferrous metals contain iron, making them magnetic and prone to rust if untreated. Common examples include steel, cast iron, and wrought iron.
Non-ferrous metals, on the other hand, don’t contain iron, which makes them more resistant to rust and corrosion. They’re also non-magnetic and tend to be more valuable. Think aluminium, copper, brass/bronze, zinc, and lead.
Ferrous metals are heavier and often used in construction, while non-ferrous metals are lighter and more flexible, making them ideal for electrical wiring, plumbing, and various industrial applications.
How much is your scrap metal worth?
How much you’ll get for your scrap metal depends on a few key factors such as:
- Type of Metal – Non-ferrous metals like copper, brass, and aluminium usually fetch higher prices than ferrous metals like steel.
- Condition & Purity – Clean, sorted metal without insulation, paint, or other coatings will get a better rate.
- Weight – Larger loads tend to get better overall payouts.
- Market Prices – Scrap metal prices fluctuate, influenced by global supply and demand. If you’re looking to sell, it’s always a good idea to check the latest rates.
- Location – Prices may vary depending on whether you’re dropping off your scrap or arranging for collection.
What types of scrap metal do we accept?
At Ace Breakers, we accept a wide range of metals.
- Ferrous metals like steel and iron are common in household appliances, car parts, and construction materials.
- Non-ferrous metals such as copper, aluminium, brass, lead, and zinc, often found in electrical wiring, plumbing pipes, and radiators.
- Scrap vehicles and car parts, including engines, gearboxes, and batteries.
- Household scrap, including certain appliances (please check with us first), metal furniture, metal tools, wrought iron etc.
- Industrial and commercial scrap, such as factory clearances or construction site metals.
If you’re not sure whether we’ll take something, just give us a call and we’ll be happy to help.
Can I bring scrap mixed with other materials?
You can, but bear in mind it’ll lower the price since extra processing is needed. To get the best payout, it’s worth sorting and cleaning your scrap beforehand.
Do you offer a pickup service?
If you’ve got a large amount of scrap, we can arrange a pickup service. Alternatively, we may offer you a skip at your location. You simply fill it up with metal, and we’ll collect it when it’s ready. We’ll weigh the scrap and pay you based on the amount of metal collected. If you’ve only got a small load, bringing it straight to our scrap yard will get you a better price.
What documents do I need to sell scrap metal?
Selling scrap metal in the UK requires valid ID under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013, which was introduced to prevent metal theft. You’ll need to provide either:
- A UK driving licence
- A UK or EEA passport along with a recent utility bill (no older than three months)
Can I get paid in cash?
No. Due to UK regulations, scrap metal cannot be paid for in cash. However, we offer secure payment via:
- Bank transfer (fast and convenient)
- Cheque (if preferred)
All payments are processed quickly and transparently.
What happens to my scrap metal after you buy it?
Once we buy your scrap, it goes through several processing stages before being recycled.
- Sorting & Cleaning – Metals are separated and stripped of non-metal materials.
- Shredding & Crushing – Larger pieces are broken down for easier processing.
- Recycling – The metal is sold so that it can be melted and repurposed into new products.
This process reduces waste, lowers carbon emissions, and conserves natural resources. Recycling aluminium, for example, saves up to 95% of the energy needed to produce it from raw materials.
How can you get the best price for your scrap metal?
If you want to maximise your payout, there are a few things you can do.
- Sort your scrap – Separate different metals like copper, aluminium, and steel to get the best rates.
- Remove contaminants – Get rid of plastic, rubber, or insulation, as cleaner scrap is worth more.
- Keep it clean – Rust-free, unpainted metals are more valuable.
- Sell in bulk – Larger amounts often get better rates.
The better condition your scrap is in, the more money you’ll get for it.
Why choose Ace Breakers?
At Ace Breakers, we pride ourselves on offering competitive prices, reliable service, and honest valuations. Whether you’re an individual clearing out household scrap or a business looking for industrial disposal, we’re here to help.
- Top prices paid for scrap metal
- Reliable service with honest valuations
- Skip hire & collection services available
- Fully licensed under UK scrap metal regulations
- Convenient location close to the A2 for easy drop-offs
If you’re ready to turn your scrap into cash, either visit us in or give us a call for a quote. Got questions? We’re happy to help! Recycling metal isn’t just good for your wallet—it’s good for the planet too.