Introduction
If your old car has reached the end of its road and repairing it no longer makes sense, selling it to a car scrap yard is a smart move. Not only can you earn some money, but you’ll also help ensure your vehicle is recycled in an eco-friendly way.
However, many car owners don’t realize there’s a right way to scrap a vehicle. From avoiding scams to getting paid fairly, here are essential tips for selling your car to a scrap yard.
1. Do Your Research
Before contacting a scrap yard, spend a little time researching your options. Look for local licensed and authorized scrap yards (also known as Authorized Treatment Facilities or ATFs). Check online reviews and ratings, and confirm the yard is legally registered.
Avoid sketchy or unverified dealers who may not recycle your vehicle properly or fail to provide legal documentation.
2. Get Multiple Quotes
Scrap yards may offer different prices for the same vehicle, especially if it has reusable parts like a catalytic converter, battery, or good tires.
Contact at least two or three scrap yards and compare their offers. Make sure the quotes include pickup fees (if any) and whether paperwork like the Certificate of Destruction (CoD) is provided.
3. Prepare Your Car
You don’t need to wash it, but here are a few things you should do before handing it over:
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Remove all personal belongings from the interior and trunk.
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Take out your license plate (required in many provinces like Ontario).
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Check for hidden valuables or documents (registration, insurance slips).
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Drain the fuel only if the yard requests it—most ATFs handle fluids safely.
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4. Gather Required Paperwork
Having the right documents ready can speed up the process. Typically, you’ll need:
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Proof of ownership, such as the vehicle title or registration
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Valid photo ID
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ServiceOntario notification (if you’re in Ontario)
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Insurance cancellation proof, if applicable
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Most importantly, ensure you get a Certificate of Destruction (CoD) — this document proves the car is no longer in your name and has been responsibly disposed of.
5. Be Honest About the Condition
Be transparent about the condition of your vehicle when speaking with scrap dealers. Let them know if:
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The car is missing key parts
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It hasn’t run in years
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It’s been in a major accident
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Unexpected issues at pickup could lower the price or cause the deal to fall through.
6. Don’t Remove Valuable Parts (Unless You Plan To Sell Them Separately)
While it’s tempting to remove items like rims, stereos, or batteries to sell individually, doing so might reduce the quote or affect eligibility for a CoD. Some scrapyards require a complete vehicle to issue proper documentation.
If you want to part it out, clarify with the yard beforehand.
Also Read: 6 Most Valuable Scrap Car Parts That Sell for Cash – Get the Best Price
7. Confirm Free Towing or Pick-Up
Most reputable scrap yards offer free towing, especially if your vehicle is not drivable. Always ask whether this is included in the quote or if it’s a separate charge.
Bonus Tip: Some scrap yards offer higher rates if you bring the vehicle in yourself.
8. Cancel Your Insurance and Notify Authorities
Once your car is sold and the CoD is in hand:
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Cancel your insurance to avoid paying premiums for a scrapped car.
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Notify your provincial vehicle authority (like ServiceOntario) to officially deregister the vehicle.
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This step protects you from any future legal or financial liabilities.
9. Watch for Red Flags
Be cautious of scrap yards that:
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Don’t give a bill of sale
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Offer vague or unusually high quotes with hidden terms
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Ask for a vehicle without checking the ownership proof
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Refuse to give a receipt or CoD
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Your goal is to scrap responsibly, not end up in a legal mess.
10. Choose an Eco-Friendly, Trusted Recycler
Remember, not all scrap yards are created equal. Pick a facility that follows eco-friendly recycling standards, properly disposes of fluids, recycles usable parts, and complies with local laws.
At Greenway Auto Recycling, we ensure responsible disposal, fair pricing, and legal documentation — including a Certificate of Destruction for your peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Scrapping your car can be quick and stress-free — if you follow the right steps. From paperwork to price quotes and pickup, a little preparation goes a long way in making sure you get the best deal and avoid future hassles.
Looking to sell your scrap car in Ontario? Call us at (416) 783-9026 or visit our car scrap yard to get a quick quote.
