To get rid of a junk car that you can’t sell to a private buyer, sell it to a salvage company. While this is a quick and easy way to get rid of a vehicle, there is still some red tape involved in the selling process. This guide can help you prepare you car for the transaction.

4 Steps to Selling Your Junk Car

1. Gather the Appropriate Paperwork

Few auto salvage yards accept pink slips as proof of ownership of a junk car because these documents are easily altered or forged. Instead, you should have the title for the vehicle. If the title is misplaced, the salvage company may be willing to accept the vehicle’s proof of registration as long as the document includes the VIN for that vehicle. You should also be able to show your photo ID with your name matching the other documents provided.

2. Remove the License Plates

Getting cash for junk cars doesn’t absolve the owner of their responsibility to the Department of Motor Vehicles. You’ll be required to turn in your license plates upon canceling the title with the DMV. If you allow the plates to be demolished along with the vehicle, transferring legal ownership could become more complicated. Remember to reclaim the plates before your vehicle is hauled away.

3. Cancel the Auto Insurance 

You should maintain insurance on the vehicle until the transfer of ownership is complete, otherwise, you can be fined by the DMV.

Once you confirm the transfer of ownership, you should cancel your insurance coverage as soon as possible. This can help you avoid paying premiums on a policy that you no longer need. If you paid in advance, you may even be eligible for a refund.

4. Remove Your Personal Possessions

Go through your car one last time before the salvage company picks it up. Check the glove box and other compartments for documents and any other possessions you may have forgotten about. Check the trunk to make sure you have removed any tools or other equipment that was stored there. Once the car is taken away, you likely won’t be able to retrieve these items.

When you’re ready to get rid of your junk car, contact Rudy's Towing & Auto Salvage in Philadelphia, PA. These professionals offer fair cash payments and will explain how they arrived at the amount they offer for your vehicle. Call ahead to ask about their requirements for buying junk cars at (267) 235-9421. Visit their website to learn more about their services.