How do I prepare my scrap metal before bringing it in?

To make the process smoother and ensure you get the best price, we recommend removing non-metal parts, sorting metals by type, cutting large pieces into manageable sizes, and keeping metals clean and dry. Proper preparation speeds up processing and can increase the value of your scrap.

What’s the difference between ferrous and non-ferrous metals?

Ferrous metals contain iron and are magnetic (like steel and iron). Non-ferrous metals do not contain iron, are non-magnetic, and are usually more valuable (like copper, aluminium, and brass). Knowing the difference helps you sort your scrap and get the most accurate pricing.

Can I recycle small amounts of metal, or do you only deal with large quantities?

We accept both small and large quantities of scrap metal. Whether you have a single item or a full trailer load, we’re happy to help you recycle responsibly and get paid for your scrap.

How does the payment process work?

Payments are made promptly and securely. Once your metal is weighed and assessed, we can pay you via BACS bank transfer or other agreed methods. For repeat or business customers, we can also arrange regular payments.

Do you recycle materials from businesses and tradespeople?

Absolutely! We work with builders, electricians, plumbers, and other tradespeople to recycle scrap metal efficiently. We can handle one-off jobs or ongoing contracts, helping businesses dispose of waste responsibly while earning extra revenue.

What identification do I need when I visit?

All visitors must bring valid photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport). This is a legal requirement for scrap metal transactions and ensures a safe and compliant recycling process.

Why should I recycle metal instead of throwing it away?

Recycling metal reduces environmental impact, saves energy, and reduces the need for mining new materials. Plus, you can earn money for metal you would otherwise throw away—good for both the planet and your wallet!

How long does the recycling process take after I drop off my metal?

Once you drop off your scrap, we weigh, sort, and process it quickly. Small items are usually processed immediately, while larger loads may take a few hours. Our goal is to ensure efficient service without compromising accuracy.

Can mixed metals be recycled together?

While we can accept mixed metals, it’s best to separate them by type whenever possible. Different metals have different values and processing requirements, so separation can help increase your payout and speed up recycling.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HOW TO SCRAP METAL

Wondering how to scrap metal, what the process is and how payments work? Birmingham based West Midlands Metals has all the answers right here.

Get in Touch

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HOW TO SCRAP METAL

Read our FAQs

What ID do I need?

To comply with the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013, we need: A Photo Driving Licence, or, A Passport plus a recent utility bill (dated within the last 3 months) We also need your bank sort code and account number to make same-day BACS payments — no cash is paid on-site.

What are your payment terms?

We offer faster payment on all transactions to your nominated bank account. All payments are made to you the same day between 4-6pm Monday – Friday and within an hour on Saturday mornings

How to get the best price for your scrap metal in Birmingham

Since the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 all customers are required by law to provide identification when weighing in scrap metal in the UK. Acceptable forms of ID are a Photo Driving License, or passport and utility bill.

Check our website for daily updates on metal prices in Birmingham.

Where are you based?

We are based just off the A45, Small Heath Highway, 11-12 Lawden Road, Birmingham B10 0AB.

How often do prices change?

Scrap metal prices are based on the stock market. There are a number of different factors that affect the market so prices fluctuate daily. All our prices are updated daily ensuring you the top market price

What do you buy?

We specialise in non-ferrous and semi-precious metals. We buy copper, brass, lead, household and armoured cable, aluminium and all other grades of non-ferrous metals.

How fast can you collect?

We aim to collect within 48 hours of your request. For urgent collections, drop us a email or give us a call 0121 798 0896 — we’ll do our best to fit you in sooner!

What items do you accept?

As a specialist non-ferrous scrap yard, we accept: Bright Copper Wire, Copper Tubes & Tanks, Brass (all types), Lead, Aluminium, All grades of Cable, Stainless Steel, Alloy Wheels, Electric Motors & Transformers, Swarf, for specialist non ferrous metals give us a call

How much is a full bin worth?

A full bin clean copper tube or bright wire could fetch thousands of pounds. The heavier the better. Mixed cables and other grades vary — all prices are updated daily on our website.

Is there a minimum amount for collection?

We offer free collection for larger quantities of non-ferrous metals across the wider West Midlands area. If you’re unsure, just contact us — we’ll assess your materials and advise you of the best option. We request that Wheelie bins are filled to the top before you request a collection to maximise your profit and save multiple jorneys

What types of metals can I recycle with West Midlands Metals?

We accept a wide range of metals, including ferrous metals like iron and steel, and non-ferrous metals such as copper, aluminium, brass, lead, and stainless steel. Whether it’s scrap from home, business, or construction sites, we can help you recycle it responsibly.

How are scrap metal prices calculated?

Scrap metal prices fluctuate based on the global metals market, supply and demand, and the type and quality of the metal. Prices are usually reviewed daily. At West Midlands Metals, we always aim to offer competitive and transparent rates based on current market conditions.

Do you offer collection services, and how do I book one?

Yes, we provide scrap metal collection services for homes and businesses in the West Midlands area. To arrange a collection, simply contact us with details of the metal type and quantity, and we’ll schedule a convenient pickup time.

Are there items you cannot accept?

For safety and environmental reasons, we cannot accept hazardous materials, batteries, chemicals, or items containing asbestos. If you’re unsure whether your item qualifies, please contact us before bringing it in.

West Midlands Metals makes knowing how to scrap metal an easy process

We’ll be keeping our FAQs regularly updated and you are welcome to contact our Birmingham team anytime if you have a question that is not answered on this page.

Scrap Metal Prices

LAST UPDATED:

November 3, 2026

DRY BRIGHT WIRE

£9.30

CLEAN COPPER TUBE

£9.10

HEAVY COPPER TUBE 98%

£8.70

BRAIZERY

£8.00

GUN METAL

£5.50

BRASS

£5.00

HIGH GRADE CABLE

£4.10

HOUSEHOLD CABLE

£2.60

LOW GRADE CABLE / SWA

£1.60

H9 ALUMINIUM SECTION

£1.60

Alloy Wheels

£1.45

ALUMINIUM CUTTS

£1.40

LEAD

£1.15

OLD ROLLED ALUM

£1.10

316 STAINLESS STEEL

£1.00

STAINLESS STEEL

£0.45

Batteries

£0.24

West Midlands Metals
11-12 The Arches Lawden Rd,
Birmingham, B10 0AB

Telephone:
0121 798 0896

Email:
info@westmidlandsmetals.co.uk

Opening Hours

Monday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Tuesday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Wednesday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Thursday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Friday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Saturday: 8:00am-12:00pm
Sunday: Closed

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.

Your subscription has been successful.

Pre Register Now

Pre-register today for speed and convenience

Enter your EMAIL

Provide your email address to subscribe. For e.g abc@xyz.com

Enter your FIRSTNAME

Enter your LASTNAME

Enter your POST_CODE

I agree to receive your newsletters and accept the data privacy statement.

You may unsubscribe at any time using the link in our newsletter.

Collection service

How fast can you collect?

We aim to collect within 48 hours of your request. Need it sooner? Call 0121 798 0896 and we’ll do our best to fit you in.

What does it cost?

Nothing. The bin, delivery and collection are free, with no deposit and no contract.

How much is a full bin worth?

It depends on the metal and how well it’s sorted. As an example, 50kg of bright copper wire at £9.40 a kilo pays £470.

Is there a minimum amount?

We ask that the bin is full before you book. It saves journeys and gets you the most from each collection.

I’ve got more than a bin. Can you still collect?

Yes. We can drop off more than one bin, bring a larger container, or collect loose loads.

Do I need to be there?

No. Tell us where the bin is kept. We send photos of the scales before we leave and pay you the same day.

Do you collect from householders?

No. The collection service is for tradespeople and businesses who produce non-ferrous scrap regularly. Householders are welcome to bring metal to the yard.

Can I still bring metal to the yard?

Yes. We’re open Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm and Saturday 8am to 12pm.

Find out more about our free bin collection for trades