Whether you’re clearing out your garage, replacing old equipment, or scrapping a vehicle that’s no longer roadworthy, knowing how to properly dispose of metal waste is essential. Not only is responsible metal disposal better for the environment, but it can also be financially rewarding.
At McKinstry Metal Recycling, we’ve worked hard to become a trusted name in metal recycling in Belfast. We work with both domestic and commercial customers, offering a reliable service that’s built on transparency, compliance, and great customer care.
If you’re searching for a scrap yard in Belfast that accepts a wide range of materials and offers competitive rates, here’s your comprehensive guide to what we accept, what you should know before arriving, and how to prepare your scrap metal.
Why Recycle Scrap Metal?
Before diving into the checklist, it’s worth understanding why scrap metal recycling is such an important service for households and businesses across Northern Ireland.
- Environmental benefits: Recycling metal saves raw materials, reduces energy usage, and lowers carbon emissions.
- Economic value: Metals have inherent value. From copper wiring to old aluminium ladders, your waste could be worth more than you think.
- Legal compliance: Disposing of metal responsibly ensures you’re following waste legislation and avoiding potential fines.
- Decluttering and convenience: Whether it’s a garage full of scrap or an unwanted vehicle, we help you clear it quickly and efficiently.
What Scrap Metal Do We Accept?
At McKinstry, we handle a wide range of materials. If you’re unsure whether your metal is recyclable, here’s a breakdown to help you identify what’s accepted.
1. Ferrous Metals
These are iron-based metals and are often magnetic. They’re commonly found in construction, appliances, and vehicles.
- Mild steel
- Cast iron
- Structural steel beams
- Cookers, washing machines, radiators
- Car engines and bodywork
While ferrous metals generally have a lower value than non-ferrous metals, they are still widely recycled and very much accepted at our scrap yard in Belfast.
2. Non-Ferrous Metals
These metals don’t contain iron and are typically more valuable. They’re commonly found in wiring, plumbing, and manufacturing equipment.
- Copper – pipes, cylinders, wiring
- Brass – taps, decorative fittings
- Aluminium – cans, bike frames, car wheels
- Lead – roofing sheets, old batteries
- Zinc, stainless steel, and tin materials
We work with plumbers, electricians, builders, and contractors across Northern Ireland who bring us offcuts, leftover materials, and dismantled fittings.
3. Cables and Wiring
Stripped or unstripped, we accept a wide variety of electrical cable types. From household wiring to armoured cable, there’s always value in copper and aluminium-based wiring.
4. Batteries
We accept a range of vehicle and industrial batteries for recycling. These contain lead and other recyclable materials but must be handled carefully due to their chemical contents. Please let our team know in advance if you’re bringing a large quantity.
Thinking of Scrapping Your Vehicle?
If your car has reached the end of its life and you’re wondering, “Where can I scrap my car in NI?”, we’ve got you covered.
We’re fully licensed to deal with End-of-Life Vehicles (ELVs) and can provide you with all the necessary documentation to ensure the vehicle is deregistered with the DVLA.
We accept:
- Cars
- Vans
- 4x4s
- Small commercial vehicles
We’ll take care of the de-pollution process, remove all fluids safely, and recycle all usable components. You’ll receive a Certificate of Destruction confirming the vehicle is scrapped legally and responsibly.
What We Don’t Accept
There are a few items that we’re unable to process due to legislation or health and safety restrictions. These include:
- Fridges, freezers, and air conditioning units that still contain coolant gases
- Pressurised gas cylinders or fire extinguishers
- Hazardous waste such as asbestos
- Radioactive materials or medical waste
- Oil tanks that haven’t been emptied and cleaned
If you’re unsure whether an item can be brought to our scrap yard in Belfast, just give us a call and we’ll be happy to advise.
Why Choose McKinstry?
We’ve been part of the local community for decades, offering reliable metal recycling in Belfast with a focus on service and compliance. Our customers choose us because:
- We’re a licensed Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF)
- Our scrap yard in Belfast is centrally located and easy to access
- We offer competitive rates across all metal types
- Our modern weighbridge ensures accuracy and fairness
- We serve both domestic and commercial clients
- Our team is friendly, knowledgeable, and happy to assist
We’re proud to support recycling efforts across Northern Ireland, working with homeowners, contractors, businesses, and public sector organisations to reduce waste and maximise value.
What Happens To The Metal?
After collection, your metal is sorted, cleaned, and processed using industry-standard equipment. It’s then sent on to be melted down and reused in the manufacturing of new products. This helps reduce the demand for new raw materials and keeps tonnes of waste out of landfill.
By recycling with McKinstry, you’re helping to create a cleaner, more sustainable future for Northern Ireland.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’ve got a few bits of copper pipe, a pile of scrap from a building project, or a car that’s seen better days, McKinstry Metal Recycling is here to help. Our experienced team, top pricing, and fast turnaround make us a leading choice for scrap metal in Belfast.
Don’t let valuable materials go to waste. Contact us today or visit our scrap yard in Belfast to turn your scrap into something worthwhile.
For large commercial volumes or to arrange a collection, our team is on hand to assist. Get in touch today to get started!
About McKinstry Metal Recycling
We’re McKinstry Metal Recycling, part of the Mckinstry Group known across Northern Ireland for honest, hassle-free scrap metal services. For years, we’ve worked with local households, tradespeople, and businesses right here in Belfast. What matters most to us is doing things properly: fair prices, clear info, and a real focus on recycling in a way that helps both people and the planet.