To sell a car to a junkyard: Call multiple local yards for quotes, ask if towing is included, verify they're licensed, bring your title and ID to transfer ownership, and get paid before they tow. However, consider getting an offer from an online buyer first, their larger networks often mean higher payouts than local junkyards.
Junkyards, also called salvage yards, scrap yards, or auto recyclers have been buying old cars for decades. They're a straightforward option when you need to get rid of a vehicle that's reached the end of its road. But straightforward doesn't always mean best.
This guide explains how selling to a junkyard works, what to watch out for (some yards can be rough to deal with), and why you should get quotes from online buyers before settling for your local salvage yard's offer.
Should You Sell Your Car to a Junkyard?
Here's the honest truth: unless your car is a complete pile of scrap metal with zero parts value, a junkyard probably shouldn't be your first call.
Junkyards make money by buying vehicles cheap, stripping valuable parts, and selling the remaining metal for scrap. Their business model depends on paying you as little as possible. That's not a criticism, it's just how the industry works.
The problem is that local junkyards have a limited market. They can only sell parts to customers in their area. Online buyers like Clunqr connect to nationwide networks of buyers, exporters, and auction houses. That larger market typically translates to higher offers.
When Junkyards Make Sense
- Truly scrap-only vehicles : Completely stripped, severely burned, or more rust than metal
- Very rural areas : Where online buyers don't operate
- Immediate cash needs : Some yards pick up same day
- You've already compared : And the local yard matches or beats online offers
When to Look Elsewhere
- Your car still runs : Running vehicles are worth more to resellers
- It's a popular make/model : High parts demand means online buyers pay more
- It has valuable components : Catalytic converters, good transmissions, working electronics
- You have time to compare : A day or two can mean $100-$300 more
Finding a Reputable Junkyard
Not all junkyards are created equal. Some are professional operations. Others are places you don't want to deal with.
Signs of a Good Junkyard
They're licensed and insured. Ask for their license number and verify it.
They have a physical location you can verify. Search on Google Maps.
They have reviews. Check Google, Yelp, BBB for patterns.
They're upfront about pricing. They explain how they arrived at their offer.
They include towing. Most reputable yards offer free pickup.
Red Flags to Watch For
- They quote high, then drop the price at pickup. Classic bait-and-switch.
- They don't ask about condition. Planning to lowball you later.
- They pressure you to decide immediately. Fair offers don't expire in minutes.
- They want unusual payment methods. Cash at pickup is standard.
- They won't put the offer in writing. Leaving room to change it.
Step-by-Step: Selling to a Junkyard
Step 1: Get Multiple Quotes
Call at least three yards. Get an online quote too for comparison.
Step 2: Verify the Yard
Check reviews, verify location, ask for license number.
Step 3: Get the Offer in Writing
Price, free towing confirmation, firm price guarantee.
Step 4: Prepare Your Vehicle
Remove belongings, remove plates, gather title and ID.
Step 5: Complete the Sale
Verify offer matches, sign title, get paid in cash before they load.
Step 6: Post-Sale Tasks
File release of liability, cancel insurance, return plates if required.
How Much Do Junkyards Pay for Cars?
Junkyard offers typically range from $100 to $500 for most vehicles, with some paying up to $1,000 for larger vehicles or those with valuable parts.
Main factors: vehicle weight, current scrap prices, parts demand, condition, and your location.
For a detailed breakdown, see our complete guide on how much junkyards pay for cars.
Why Get an Online Quote First
Larger Network = Better Prices
Online buyers connect to nationwide networks. That Honda your local junkyard sees as scrap? An online buyer might know there's an exporter willing to pay premium.
More Competition for Your Car
Local yards: 3-5 buyers in your area. Online buyers: buyers across the country competing for your vehicle.
It's Free Insurance
Getting an online quote takes minutes. Worst case: confirms the junkyard's offer is fair. Best case: $100-$300 more in your pocket.
Get a Quote Before Calling the Junkyard
See what your car is worth to buyers nationwide. Takes 90 seconds, completely free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most reputable junkyards include free towing. However, some charge separately or deduct costs from your payment. Always confirm whether towing is truly free.
Yes, junkyard prices are often negotiable. Your best leverage is having competing offers. Many yards will match or beat a competitor's written offer.
Check for: verifiable physical location, online reviews, state salvage dealer license, willingness to put offers in writing.
Online buyers connect to nationwide networks. They can sell your car to whoever pays most, not just local customers. More competition = better prices for you.