So, you’ve decided to sell your car to a wrecker—great choice! It’s quick, easy, and often comes with instant cash and free towing. But before the tow truck rolls up, there are a few simple things you should take care of to make sure the process goes smoothly and you don’t leave anything behind (literally or financially).
Here’s what to tick off your list before handing your car over to a wrecker:
1. Remove All Personal Belongings
It might sound obvious, but it’s easy to forget. Check under the seats, in the glovebox, boot, console, and door pockets. Sunglasses, toll tags, spare keys, garage remotes—these things love to hide in odd places.
Wreckers don’t take responsibility for anything left behind, and once the car’s gone, so is your stuff.
Quick Tip: Don’t forget things like fuel cards, service books, or even CDs still in the player!
2. Take Off the Number Plates
In most Australian states—including Victoria—you’ll need to return the number plates to VicRoads if the car is being scrapped. Taking them off yourself saves time later and avoids any issues.
Also, don’t forget to remove any toll pass stickers or rego-related items stuck to the windscreen.
3. Cancel or Transfer Your Registration
Once the car’s gone, make sure you cancel your registration or transfer it properly. You can do this online through VicRoads if the car is unregistered or sold for scrap. In some cases, you may even be entitled to a refund on remaining rego.
Bonus: If your CTP insurance is still active, cancel it too. You might get a small refund depending on your insurer.
4. Gather the Right Paperwork
Selling your car to a wrecker is usually simpler than selling privately, but you’ll still need some basic documents:
- Your photo ID (usually a driver’s licence)
- Proof of vehicle ownership (title or rego papers)
- A signed agreement or paperwork from the wrecker (some may require this for recordkeeping)
Having this ready saves time and avoids any confusion during pickup.
5. Get the Best Quote You Can
Not all wreckers offer the same price. Even for the same car, one company might offer you $400, while another goes up to $800. Take a few minutes to call around or use online quote forms.
Also, make sure the wrecker offers free towing and instant payment—some less reputable ones might try to sneak in a fee or delay the cash.
Wrap-Up
Selling your car to a wrecker is one of the easiest ways to turn your old, damaged, or unwanted vehicle into fast cash. Just remember to clean it out, take off the plates, cancel your rego, gather your ID, and shop around for the best offer.
Once you’ve ticked these off, you’re ready to hand it over stress-free.
Need help? We offer same-day car removal and pay top cash across Melbourne. Give us a call or request a quote online—no hassle, no hidden fees.
Got an old car? Let’s turn it into cash—quick and easy.
If you are in Mooroolbark, and looking for a cash for cars service, this is the best way to visit us.
Croydon Cash For Cars
18 Thomas Brew Lane, Croydon VIC 3136
(03) 7047 6673