How does the online valuation process work?

Submit your vehicle details and photos through our website; we review make, model, year and damage and then provide a transparent competitive cash offer, with final payment subject to a brief onsite inspection.

What documents do I need and will you handle deregistration?

You will typically need proof of ownership and ID; we handle most transfer and deregistration paperwork on your behalf and will tell you about any additional forms required by South African authorities.

Do you buy non-running, accident-written-off or salvage vehicles?

Yes - we buy vehicles in any condition, including non-running, accident-written-off and salvage, and offers are calculated from the vehicle’s condition, market value and provided data.

Do you provide free towing and where do you collect vehicles?

We provide free towing and nationwide collection across South Africa, including Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban and surrounding areas, with collection arranged after you accept the offer.

How quickly will I receive payment and can you handle fleet sales?

We arrange fast payment (bank transfer or cash at collection) once paperwork is completed; we also buy individual vehicles and small business fleets using a streamlined process for multiple vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions About Selling Scrap Cars in South Africa

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Frequently Asked Questions About Selling Scrap Cars: Overview

If you're considering selling a scrap car, salvage or written-off vehicle in South Africa, you likely have questions about value, paperwork, towing and safety. This FAQ collects practical answers for private owners and small fleet managers in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and beyond. The phrase "scrap car" here covers non-running vehicles, accident-damaged cars, flood- or fire-damaged cars and end-of-life vehicles.

What does "selling a scrap car" mean?

Selling a scrap car typically means transferring ownership of a vehicle that is not economical to repair, is non-running, or has been written off by an insurer. Buyers in the salvage market may dismantle the car for parts, repair it for resale where legal, or sell it for metal. In South Africa, the process often includes deregistration and transfer of ownership under the National Road Traffic Act.

Who buys scrap cars?

Scrap and salvage traders who can reuse parts or metal
Specialist buyers who handle paperwork, towing and pay cash
Dealers who can recondition salvage vehicles within legal limits

How is a scrap car's value calculated?

Buyers base offers on the vehicle's make, model, year, current salvage demand for parts, the extent of damage, and whether any major components remain usable. Location and transport costs in South Africa also affect the offer. Below is a simple comparative table you can use to understand repair cost versus retained value (figures are illustrative ranges in R and vary by vehicle):

Scenario	Typical Repair Cost (estimate)	Value Retained After Repair (estimate)
Minor bodywork, running	R5,000 - R20,000	75%-90% of market value
Major structural damage	R25,000+	10%-50% of market value
Non-running / engine failure	R10,000 - R40,000+	5%-60% depending on parts value

These are illustrative ranges only; local market demand (e.g., for parts on common models) can move offers significantly. For a quick valuation process tailored to South Africa, see our homepage and overview of services in the About / How it works page.

Common FAQs: Offers, towing and timelines

How long does it take to get an offer?

Many specialist buyers provide an online or phone-based estimate within minutes to a few hours once you supply photos and vehicle details. Final offers may be quickly updated after a short inspection or documentary checks.

Is towing included and how long until collection?

Nationwide towing varies by buyer. In South Africa, reputable services often include free towing from major centres such as Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban; rural collections may take longer. Expect collection windows of 24-72 hours in metros and slightly longer in remote areas.

Will I be paid on collection?

Payment arrangements differ. Many professional buyers complete paperwork at collection and release payment immediately or within one business day after verifying documents. Always confirm the payment method and timing in writing.

When to sell versus attempt repairs

Decide to sell a scrap car when repair cost exceeds reasonable expected retained value or when the time, hassle and risks of repair are not worthwhile. For older cars or vehicles with structural damage, selling as scrap or salvage is usually the more cost-effective option. For guidance on non-running vehicles specifically, consult the Sell Non-Running Car resource.

Damage types and how they typically affect offers

Damage Type	Typical Offer Impact
Exterior panel damage	Moderate reduction; parts often reusable
Structural / frame damage	Significant reduction; lower offers due to repair complexity
Engine or transmission failure	Varies widely; core component condition matters
Flood or fire damage	Severe reduction; electrical and interior parts often compromised

Legal & paperwork essentials in South Africa

When selling a scrap car in South Africa you must follow transfer and deregistration procedures. Key steps typically include verifying the vehicle registration certificate (logbook), completing a written sale agreement, and handling deregistration with the licensing authority if the car is not being driven away by the buyer. If the vehicle is under finance, obtain a written settlement figure from the financer; many buyers can assist with clearing finance as part of the sale but you should confirm terms in writing.

Paperwork checklist

Vehicle registration document (logbook) or proof of ownership
Valid ID for seller
Written sale agreement with both parties' details
Clear confirmation of payment method and timing

Practical tips to maximise your offer

Provide clear photos of the vehicle (interior, exterior, engine bay) and a short damage description.
Be honest about condition-accurate info speeds up offers and avoids rescinded quotes.
If the car has reusable parts (wheels, infotainment, seats), note these in the listing.
Compare several offers and prefer buyers who outline paperwork, towing and payment clearly.

If your vehicle is damaged but still repairable, our Sell Damaged Cars page explains differences between salvage sales and repair routes.

Real-world South Africa example

Example: A 2010 hatchback with a failed engine and intact body panels may fetch more as a parts car than as scrap metal. Offers can vary by city: a common model in Johannesburg might command higher parts demand than the same vehicle in a smaller town. These variations mean providing accurate location and condition details improves quote accuracy. Prices in examples are illustrative and not offers.

What happens after collection?

After collection the buyer typically completes transfer paperwork and arranges deregistration if required. Payment is released according to the agreed method. Keep copies of all signed documents and payment confirmation for your records.

Frequently Asked Questions About Selling Scrap Cars in South Africa

Frequently Asked Questions About Selling Scrap Cars: Overview

What does "selling a scrap car" mean?

Who buys scrap cars?

How is a scrap car's value calculated?

Common FAQs: Offers, towing and timelines

How long does it take to get an offer?

Is towing included and how long until collection?

Will I be paid on collection?

When to sell versus attempt repairs

Damage types and how they typically affect offers

Legal & paperwork essentials in South Africa

Paperwork checklist

Practical tips to maximise your offer

Real-world South Africa example

What happens after collection?

Sources

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