Short answer: A yard usually pays more and lets you watch the weighing, which suits loads you can carry and valuable metals, while a mobile collector saves you the transport and effort, which suits heavy, bulky or awkward loads, so the right answer depends on whether the extra price from the yard is worth the trip, and on whether the collector is licensed and gives you a fair, written quote.
Want several offers? Compare verified buyers on ScrapTrade.
List Free →When a yard wins
Valuable metals and loads you can carry usually earn more at a yard, and you see the weighing.
When a collector wins
Heavy appliances and large piles cost more to move than the extra price is worth.
Check the details
Whichever you choose, ask for a written quote and confirm any licence that applies.
How ScrapTrade Fits In
ScrapTrade buyers include both yards and collectors, so you can compare them directly.
The best option depends on your load. ScrapTrade lets you compare verified buyers, with transparent weighing and escrow-protected payments.
List or Find Scrap on ScrapTrade →Practical answers on comparing local scrap yards, mobile collectors, online marketplaces and skip hire.