Step-by-Step: Instant Payment for Scrap Cars in South Africa

Overview: How instant payment for scrap cars works in SA

If your vehicle is damaged beyond economical repair, non-running or officially written off, selling it for scrap can be a faster, lower-risk route than repairing or trading privately. This guide explains a step-by-step approach to get a competitive cash offer, confirm collection and receive near-instant payment, while outlining the paperwork, common value drivers and South Africa-specific considerations.

Throughout this guide we use South African context and currency (R). Figures and ranges are illustrative estimates only and will vary by vehicle age, make, model, condition and current salvage market demand.

Quick checklist before you start

• Vehicle details: make, model, year, registration and mileage.
• Clear photos: exterior, engine bay, chassis, odometer and damage close-ups.
• Documentation: copy of vehicle registration (if available), ID and bank details for payment.

Step 1 - Get an accurate online valuation

Start with an online form that accepts photos and a description of the damage. Transparent buyers provide an offer range and explain what factors affect the quote. For sellers with non-running vehicles, there's a tailored option on the Sell Non-Running Car page (Sell Non-Running Car).

Step 2 - Compare repair cost vs value retained

Before committing to repairs, compare likely repair bills with the vehicle’s retained market value after repair. Small fixes may be worth doing; major structural, flood or fire damage usually reduces post-repair value substantially.

These ranges are estimates for illustration. If repair exceeds ~30-50% of a vehicle’s clean market value, many owners choose to sell for scrap or salvage instead of investing more money.

Step 3 - Understand how damage type affects offers

Buyers price offers based on repair complexity, parts recoverability and salvage demand. Use the table below to get a practical sense of typical offer impacts.

For a clear comparison between selling as scrap and other options, review the Sell Damaged Cars resource (Sell Damaged Cars).

Step-by-step process to secure instant payment

Step 4 - Submit photos and accept an offer

Provide clear photos and accurate descriptions. A responsible buyer will explain how they arrived at the offer and list inclusions (free towing, paperwork support). If you accept, they will confirm collection details and the payment timing.

Step 5 - Paperwork: ownership and deregistration in South Africa

Standard paperwork includes a written sale agreement, a copy of your ID, and vehicle registration documents if available. Many specialist buyers handle deregistration with local authorities on your behalf. If the vehicle is under finance, inform the buyer and the finance house - settlements or transfers are handled according to the finance agreement and will affect net proceeds.

For general information on vehicle registration and related services, refer to the government vehicle registration guidance (vehicle registration services).

Step 6 - Collection, inspection and payment

On collection, the buyer will typically perform a quick physical check to confirm condition matches the photos. Reputable services include free nationwide towing and immediate payment on collection or verification shortly after. If payment is released on collection, expect funds cleared to your account within standard bank processing times.

Step 7 - What to expect after collection

• Deregistration: buyer may handle deregistration or provide documentation you need to submit to your local licensing office.
• Receipts: ensure you receive a signed sale agreement and proof of payment.
• Tax and insurance: notify your insurer and cancel any policy; update SARS if this affects tax considerations.

Tips to maximise your cash offer

• Provide multiple clear photos from different angles and show the odometer.
• Be honest about prior accidents and flood exposure - transparency speeds up payment.
• Confirm inclusions: free towing, paperwork handling and whether the buyer will settle finance if applicable.

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

• Accepting an offer without written confirmation of towing and payment timing.
• Failing to disclose finance or outstanding loans tied to the vehicle.
• Not obtaining a signed sale agreement and proof of payment on collection.

Sources

• South African government: vehicle registration services
• AA South Africa - guidance on motor insurance, written-off vehicles and salvage
• Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) - traffic and vehicle information

This step-by-step guide is intended to help South African vehicle owners evaluate whether selling a scrap or written-off vehicle is the best option, and to explain the typical steps to receive a transparent offer and near-instant payment. For more specifics on selling non-running vehicles or damaged cars, see the Sell Non-Running Car and Sell Damaged Cars pages linked above.