How Scrap Yards Price Cars in South Africa: What to Know Before You Sell

Overview: The Scrap Yard Valuation Process in South Africa

When you have a damaged, non-running, or accident-written-off car in South Africa, one obvious option is to approach a local scrap yard for a quote. But how do scrap yards actually price cars? What affects the final offer, and how does it compare to dedicated car-buying services like Sell Your Damaged Car? This guide demystifies the process, focusing on transparency so you can make the most informed decision.

Key Pricing Factors Scrap Yards Consider

• Vehicle condition and level of damage
• Make, model, year, and popularity in the used/parts market
• Current scrap metal prices (for steel, aluminium, copper, etc.)
• Value and demand for reusable parts (engines, gearboxes, electronics, panels)
• Complete vs. partial (stripped or incomplete) vehicles
• Ownership documentation and deregistration status

Below is a typical comparison of how condition and removal options affect scrap yard offers:

Offers are highly vehicle-specific and subject to daily commodity prices and local demand. Always check if towing or admin fees will be deducted before accepting an offer.

When Does Selling to a Scrap Yard Make Sense?

Selling to a scrap yard can be practical if:

• Your car is extensively damaged, has no realistic repair value, or has already been stripped for parts.
• It's a very old or unpopular model with little used parts resale potential.
• You need to dispose of the car quickly, with the minimum admin.

How the Process Works: What to Expect at a South African Scrap Yard

1. Initial Assessment: Staff will inspect the car (either at your location or onsite). They'll note the make, model, year, missing parts, and visible damage.
2. Valuation: The offer is determined using scrap metal prices (updated regularly), any reusable parts, and current demand. Offers may be reduced if critical components are missing.
3. Documentation: You'll typically need to show proof of ownership, your ID, and registration papers. Some yards accept deregistered vehicles; others may require a deregistration certificate from the traffic department.
4. Vehicle Removal: Towing charges often apply and may be deducted from your offer, especially outside Johannesburg, Cape Town, or Durban.
5. Payment: Payment is usually made by EFT after paperwork and car collection, but always confirm timelines as practices vary widely.

Legal and Admin Requirements

• Provide a valid ID, proof of ownership, and registration or deregistration certificate (as appropriate).
• Confirm whether the yard handles deregistration or if you must do this at a local licensing authority.
• If your vehicle is still under finance, you must settle the loan before legally selling to a scrap yard.
• Request a written certificate of destruction or scrapping for your records and to avoid future liabilities.

How Scrap Yards Differ from Specialist Car-Buying Services

For South Africans who value convenience, free collection, and an admin-free experience-especially in cities like Johannesburg, Durban, or Cape Town-alternatives like Sell Your Damaged Car may be preferable to the traditional scrap yard route.

Maximise the Value of Your Damaged Car

• Remove personal items and gather all keys and paperwork before the yard's inspection.
• Take clear photos and note details for reference.
• Obtain multiple quotes if possible-offer values and deductions can vary greatly.
• Check if towing fees or admin charges apply before agreeing to a deal.

What Happens After Collection?

Once the scrap yard collects your vehicle, it is either stripped for parts, processed for metal recycling, or a combination of both. parts, processed for metal recycling, or a combination of both. Deregistration (if not already done) must be completed to legally end your ownership. Always retain documentation as proof.

Sources

• Sell Damaged Cars - Sell Your Damaged Car
• Registering or Deregistering a Motor Vehicle (South African Government Services)
• How Are Scrap Metal Prices Determined? - Scrap Metal Buyers SA
• Most Popular Used Cars in South Africa - BusinessTech
• Accident Damaged Vehicles: Roadworthy & Deregistration - Arrive Alive