For some people, the decision to scrap their old car can be one of the most difficult that they will ever have to make. Often, the reason you have held onto the car for so long, even though it no longer runs or has so many problems that it’s just not worth fixing them, is that you have created a bond with it and it has been a trusty vehicle that has seen you through many of life’s hardships. If it’s just sitting around taking up space in your yard or garage, however, selling it for scrap really is the best thing you can do.

Before you make any sort of arrangement with a scrap dealer, you should make sure that you know exactly how much they’re going to give you for your car. You should be familiar enough with the industry to know that the dealer is going to try and barter you down as much as possible – just make sure that you aren’t simply giving the car away because it is worth something. You should also find out who is responsible for getting the car to the scrap yard – most dealers will offer to do this for you for free.

Make sure that you are given a Certificate of Destruction, as this will guarantee that you are no longer responsible for the car and what happens to it. The certificate will also state that the vehicle has been legally recycled, which can be hugely beneficial in preventing you from receiving a fine. The scrap dealer who takes the car off your hands should issue you with this document. Often, you won’t receive the certificate until the car has been scrapped, but it shouldn’t take too long.

You should also contact your local VicRoads or other associated centre to find out what you need to do with the license plates of the car that you are selling for scrap. Often, they will tell you that you can either bring them into your nearest centre for disposal or you can destroy them yourself. Your license plate number will then be put back into circulation for another car somewhere down the track.

When it comes to choosing a scrap dealer who you will charge with the task of recycling your car, it is important that you think carefully about the decision before making it. You don’t want to end up with a fine for not disposing of your car properly or to miss out on some much needed cash for the lucrative scrap metal you own, do you? Remember that reputable is always your best bet at doing things right.