Lead-acid batteries are one of the most commonly recycled products in New Zealand, and for good reason. Found in cars, trucks, forklifts, boats, backup power systems, and industrial equipment, these batteries contain valuable materials that can be reused when handled correctly.
If you’re holding onto old car batteries or other lead-acid batteries, selling them to a licensed scrap metal recycler is not only legal, it’s responsible, environmentally sound, and more often than not, profitable.
At Endless, we accept scrap lead acid batteries, including scrap car batteries and a wide range of other lead-acid battery types. This guide explains what lead-acid batteries are, how to sell them safely, and why proper disposal matters in New Zealand.
What Are Lead-Acid Batteries?
Lead-acid batteries are rechargeable batteries that use lead plates and sulphuric acid to store and release energy. They’re most commonly used where high surge power is required.
Common examples include:
- Car and truck batteries
- Marine batteries
- Forklift and industrial batteries
- Backup power batteries (UPS systems)
- Mobility and equipment batteries
Because they contain lead and acid, these batteries must be handled and recycled through approved channels.
Scrap Car Batteries: Why Recycling Is Important
Scrap car batteries are classified as hazardous waste if disposed of incorrectly. When dumped in landfill, battery acid can leak into soil and waterways, while lead can cause long-term environmental and health damage.
In New Zealand, car batteries are banned from landfill disposal under regional waste management rules, and improper disposal may result in fines. To learn more, please read – “Scrap Metal in Auckland: Best Prices with Real Environmental Impact.”
Recycling scrap batteries ensures:
- Lead is recovered and reused
- Plastic casings are recycled
- Acid is neutralised safely
- Environmental harm is prevented
How To Sell Lead Acid Batteries in NZ
Selling lead-acid batteries is straightforward, but there are a few important steps to follow.
- Store Batteries Safely
- Keep batteries upright
- Avoid cracked or leaking units
- Store on a hard, non-porous surface if possible
2. Transport Carefully
- Secure batteries during transport
- Avoid stacking damaged units
- Use gloves if handling corroded batteries
3. Bring Them To A Licensed Recycler
Only licensed scrap metal recyclers are permitted to accept lead-acid batteries. Endless operates in line with NZ regulations, particular with AMR (Association of Metal Recyclers) and ensures batteries are processed responsibly. For more information on scrapping with a qualified scrap battery recycling facility, please read – “How You Can Benefit From Battery Scrap Recycling”
What Types of Lead-Acid Batteries Do We Accept?
At Endless, we accept:
- Scrap car batteries
- Truck and commercial vehicle batteries
- Forklift batteries
- Industrial lead-acid batteries
If you’re unsure whether your battery type is accepted, our team can confirm before drop-off. If you’re interested about the other metals we scrap at Endless, have a look at our “What We Buy” section, which includes:
- Auckland steel scrap
- Auckland copper scrap
- Auckland aluminium scrap
- Auckland brass scrap
- Auckland whiteware scrap
- Auckland catalytic converter scrap
NZ Regulations Around Car Battery Disposal
In New Zealand, battery disposal is governed by environmental and waste management legislation. The Ministry for the Environment and local councils strongly discourage landfill disposal of car batteries due to their hazardous components.
Useful resources:
- Ministry for the Environment – Battery Waste Guidance
- Auckland Council – Hazardous Waste Disposal
- WasteMINZ Battery Stewardship Initiatives
These guidelines reinforce the importance of using licensed recyclers for all lead-acid batteries.
More Than Batteries: Other Lead Products We Recycle
In addition to lead-acid batteries, Endless also accepts a range of other lead-based materials.
Lead Scrap:
- Clean lead
- Roofing lead
- Ballast lead
- Soft and hard lead
Lead Wheel Weights:
Commonly removed during tyre changes, lead wheel weights are fully recyclable and should never be thrown away.
Lead Sheet & Copper Cable
We also recycle:
- Lead sheet
- Copper cable with lead sheathing
- Mixed metal cable containing lead components
How Pricing Works for Scrap Lead Acid Batteries
Scrap lead-acid battery prices vary depending on:
- Market demand for lead
- Quantity supplied
- Battery type and condition
While prices fluctuate, lead-acid batteries remain one of the most consistently recycled and in-demand scrap products. For current rates, it’s best to contact our team directly and they’ll be able to give you a quick run-through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I sell scrap car batteries in New Zealand?
Yes. Scrap car batteries can be sold to licensed scrap metal recyclers. They must not be disposed of in landfill.
Is ID required to sell lead-acid batteries?
Yes. Under NZ scrap metal regulations, valid photo ID is required for all transactions involving controlled metals, including lead.
Can businesses sell large quantities of lead-acid batteries?
Absolutely. We regularly work with workshops, fleet operators, and commercial suppliers. Bulk volumes are welcome.
Do you recycle the batteries on-site?
Batteries are processed through approved recycling channels where lead, plastic, and acid are safely recovered.
Sell Lead Acid Batteries the Right Way
Recycling lead-acid batteries isn’t just about clearing space. It’s about protecting the environment and recovering valuable materials responsibly. Whether you’re looking to sell lead acid batteries, sell car batteries, or recycle other lead products, Endless provides a compliant, transparent, and efficient solution.
If you have any questions about battery types, pricing, or bulk disposal, our team is always happy to help.