At Universal Scrap Metal, we want to make your visit quick, easy, and worthwhile. One of the most common issues customers face is bringing items that scrap metal yards cannot accept. This leads to wasted trips, delays, and frustration.
This guide explains what you can and can’t bring to a scrap metal yard, why certain materials are restricted, and how to prepare your scrap before visiting Universal Scrap Metal.
Why Scrap Metal Yards Accept Only Certain Materials
Scrap metal yards are built solely to recycle metal materials. Our equipment, safety systems, and environmental licences are explicitly designed for metal processing.
Industry Fact
Over 75% of all steel ever produced is still in use today because it can be recycled repeatedly without losing strength.
This level of recycling efficiency is only possible when scrap metal is clean and properly prepared.
What You Can Bring to Universal Scrap Metal
Ferrous Metals (Iron-Based Metals)
Ferrous metals contain iron and are magnetic. These are the most commonly recycled materials.
Accepted ferrous metals include:
- Steel sheets and beams
- Iron pipes and rods
- Car parts and frames
- Machinery and tools
- Rusted metal
📌 Example: A rusted steel gate or fence panel may look unusable, but it is still fully recyclable and accepted.
Non-Ferrous Metals (Higher-Value Metals)
Non-ferrous metals do not contain iron and are often more valuable.
Accepted non-ferrous metals include:
- Copper wires and pipes
- Aluminium frames, rims, and sheets
- Brass fittings and taps
- Stainless steel
- Lead
📌 Example: Stripped copper wire is easier to process and typically valued higher than mixed scrap.
Household and Commercial Metal Items
Universal Scrap Metal accepts many metal household and commercial items, such as:
- Washing machines
- Dryers
- Ovens and cooktops
- Hot water systems
- Air conditioning units
These items contain reusable steel, copper, and aluminium.
What You Cannot Bring to Universal Scrap Metal
To maintain the safety and efficiency of our site, certain materials are not accepted.
Non-Metal Materials
- Plastic of any kind
- Paper and cardboard
- Glass bottles, windows, or mirrors
- Wood and timber
- General household rubbish
Liquids and Hazardous Materials
Liquids constitute a significant safety and environmental risk and must not be brought to the yard.
❌ Not accepted:
- Fuel or oil
- Paint and solvents
- Chemicals and coolants
- Water or detergent inside appliances
📌 Example: A washing machine containing water may be refused due to spill and contamination risks.
What You Can and Can’t Bring (Quick Guide)
| Item | Accepted at Universal Scrap Metal | Reason |
| Rusted steel | ✅ Yes | Fully recyclable |
| Copper wire | ✅ Yes | High metal value |
| Washing machine | ✅ Yes | Contains reusable metals |
| Plastic waste | ❌ No | Not metal |
| Glass items | ❌ No | Different recycling process |
| Liquids or oil | ❌ No | Safety risk |
Do Scrap Yards Take Rusted Metal?
Yes, Universal Scrap Metal accepts rusted metal.
Rust does not stop metal from being recycled. During the recycling process, rust is removed when the metal is melted down.
📊 Fact:
Steel can be recycled an unlimited number of times without losing quality.
While heavy rust may slightly affect weight, rusted metal is still accepted.
Do Scrap Metal Yards Take Washing Machines?
Yes, washing machines are accepted at some scrap metal yards, provided they are correctly prepared. They must be empty, fully drained, and free of any liquids before being accepted.
Requirements:
- Empty
- All water drained
- No detergent residue
Some plastic parts or hoses may need to be removed before drop-off.
How to Prepare Scrap Metal Before Visiting
Preparing your scrap helps us serve you faster and keeps the yard safe.
Simple Preparation Tips
- Remove plastic, rubber, and wood where possible
- Drain all liquids from appliances
- Separate ferrous and non-ferrous metals
- Bundle similar materials together
- Bring a valid photo ID if required
📊 Efficiency Fact:
Properly sorted scrap can be processed up to 30% faster than mixed loads.
FAQs
- Do I need to remove plastic or rubber parts before bringing scrap metal?
Yes, where possible. Removing large plastic, rubber, or wooden parts helps us process your scrap faster. Small attached pieces may be accepted, but heavily mixed items may be downgraded or refused. - Does Universal Scrap Metal accept aluminium cans?
Yes, clean aluminium cans are accepted. Please ensure they are empty and free from liquid. - Why doesn’t Universal Scrap Metal accept plastic or glass?
Plastic and glass require different recycling systems. Our facility is explicitly licensed for metal recycling. - Is there a minimum or maximum amount of scrap I can bring?
There is no minimum amount. You can bring small household scrap or large loads. For very large quantities, please let us know in advance so we can serve you efficiently. - Why Are Liquids Not Allowed at Scrap Metal Yards?
Liquids are not allowed at scrap metal yards because they can cause spills, pose safety hazards, and contaminate the environment. They may also damage equipment and violate recycling regulations, so all items must be fully drained before acceptance.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what you can and can’t bring to a scrap metal yard helps make your visit to Universal Scrap Metal quick and hassle-free. We accept a wide range of metals, including rusted metal and appliances like washing machines, but we do not accept plastic, glass, or liquids.
If you are unsure about an item, our team is always happy to help. Preparing your scrap before visiting ensures a safer yard, faster service, and better recycling outcomes for everyone.