Scrap metal transactions involve money, identity, and goods that are hard to trace once melted. Here is how to protect yourself as a seller.
Use traceable payment
Bank transfer is the standard in most EU countries. It creates a record — who paid, when, and how much. Cash is restricted or banned for scrap in many countries. If a buyer insists on cash, especially above the legal threshold, that is a warning sign.
Get it in writing
Before the metal leaves your possession, get a weighbridge ticket and a purchase agreement or invoice. This should show: material, weight, unit price, total, date, and both parties' details. Without this, you have no recourse if something goes wrong.
Verify the buyer
Ask for the yard's environmental permit number and business registration. In the EU, scrap metal collectors and processors must be licensed. Check the permit against your country's environmental register. On European Scrap Market, we verify yards before they join — but always do your own check too.
Watch for red flags
- Prices significantly above market — too good to be true usually is
- Reluctance to provide documentation
- Pressure to hand over metal before payment
- No physical address or unlicensed premises
- Cash-only, especially above legal thresholds
On European Scrap Market
Every yard in our network has been verified — permit checked, contact details confirmed, and identity validated. Bids come from these verified yards only. You communicate through the platform and accept a bid on your terms. Payment and pickup are arranged directly with the yard, but the bid and chat record provides a trail.
If something goes wrong
Contact the yard first. If the issue is not resolved, contact us at support@europeanscrapmarket.com. For criminal matters — theft, fraud — contact your local police. Keep all documentation.