You would be surprised to know that the automotive recycling industry generates $25 billion US dollars per year. Thanks to the 12 million cars recycled each year in the US, the automotive recycling industry is the 16th largest industry in the United States. You may find it challenging to sell a car that has been with you for years, but it’s a practical thing to do.
If you plan to sell your junk car, you’ll see a large number of junk car buyers that will offer you the best deals for your car. But do you know what the critical things you need to take care of are before you hand over your vehicle to the dealer?
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Things to Do Before Selling Your Junk Cars for Cash
Don’t worry. Here are the 7 essential things to do before your car is hauled away by the dealer. Doing these things will ensure you have a smoother transaction and no problems in the future. Now let’s take a look at them.
1. Take Out All Personal Belongings
In this fast-paced world, a car enables you to do so many things, from helping you reach places on time to being your companion on a journey of thousands of miles. For many people, cars are like a second home, and that’s why it’s common to leave their personal belongings in the vehicle. One might also forget that they left them there.
It’s best to take a look at the car to check if anything is left behind. It doesn’t matter if the car is sitting there for years; you might find unexpected stuff, like your old lost jewelry, important documents, etc. Check places like the glove box, bins, under the floor mats, and also any other spots where you like to put things.
2. Check Car Documents
When you sell your junk car to a junk car buyer, you must present car-related documents such as the title, ownership transfer, registration, car insurance, and so on. These documents are proof of the ownership transfer of the vehicle to the car buyer.
Once you sell the car, you do not have any control over what happens with the car. It’s important to have ownership transfer documents. Otherwise, you will still be the vehicle’s legal owner, and you might face the legal consequences and liabilities of car ownership.
3. Remove Valuable Parts
It’s your right to get a fair price for your car. Hence, your aim should be to get every last penny out of the car. If you have negotiated a price with the car buyer, you should deliver it in the same condition as agreed between you and the buyer. However, if you think you are not getting a fair price, you can remove valuable auto parts from your car and sell the car for its actual scrap value.
You can sell these parts separately to other buyers to earn some extra money. You should remove valuable components like music systems, alternators, batteries, or any other parts that can fetch you good money. Selling them to car owners who have the same car model can get you more money than others.
4. Check If the Buyer Is Legit or Not
If you get an offer for your junk car that feels too good to be true, you might need to check the license of the junk car buyer. Fake buyers are more likely to make irresistible offers to lure the sellers and con them. That’s why it’s crucial to make a deal with a licensed car buyer to stay away from any liabilities in the future.
Suppose the deal is done, but the buyers start hesitating to pay your money. You might not be able to claim your car, nor can you get your money. Also, it might land you in legal trouble for improper ownership transfer of a vehicle.
5. Remove the Plate & Cancel Insurance
In some states, it’s a legal obligation to remove the license plate while transferring vehicle ownership. When you request to cancel the title, they also require you to present the plate at the DMV. It’s also important to cancel your insurance so that you don’t have to make any more insurance payments. It doesn’t matter even if your coverage is about to end; it’s still important to notify your insurer.
6. Choose the Best Deal
Market competition has resulted in numerous junk car buyers operating near you. They also offer good deals on junk cars to attract customers. That’s why it’s essential to look for the best value for your car. It’s best to get as much information as possible about the buyer. That way, you will not land in any problems later.
It’s also a great time to apply your negotiation skills to get the best deal. If your car is still in good shape and has some unique features, then you can emphasize those features to get more value for your car.
7. Free Logistics
Some car buyers usually take care of the logistics as they have towing facilities as well. But, it’s best to mention that during the discussion. Inquire if your dealer provides free transportation, as many other dealers do. If the package doesn’t include it, and you are getting a good deal on the car, it’s best to look for an external towing service to do the job.
As mentioned before, a car holds a lot of memories for the owner. It has so much sentimental mental value for you and maybe your family too. Although no one can measure the sentimental value of money, it’s also important to make viable decisions in life.
Some changes happen for good. They open the doors to new opportunities. That’s why it’s essential to move on with your life after selling your car. Think of the bright side as you get to buy a new one to create many new memories.
Selling your car to a junkyard dealer can be relatively easy if you know what you are doing. Knowing the minor details of the process can help you make a better decision and get the best value for your car. So, do your research on various car dealers and try to get more information. These tips will help you with that.
