We all have to say goodbye to our much-loved vehicles eventually. In some situations, you won’t have the time or patience to wait for a buyer, in others your vehicle is too far gone for anybody to want to repair it. In either case, selling it to a wrecker is the safest and quickest way to cash in and move on.
Although this is not quite as simple as turning up at a wrecker and handing over the keys, it is relatively straightforward to do here in New Zealand. Here is a simple guide on the steps to follow:
Shop around!
Before you do anything, make sure you do your research and find out who the wreckers in your area are. Don’t be afraid to venture further than your neighbourhood, either, as the value of your wreckage can vary dramatically depending on what the wrecker already has in stock.
The value of wrecked vehicles can range anywhere from $50 to over $10,000 depending on the age, condition, rarity, and components of your vehicle, and is also largely dependent on what the scrap metal price per kilogram is at the time. Unless your vehicle is unusually bulky and heavy, though, you might not want to heighten your expectations!
That being said, don’t just accept your first offer. Shopping around can be time-consuming and wreckers will be eager to take your vehicle there and then – have some patience. Remember that there is only one of your vehicle and multiple wreckers to choose from.
Deregister your vehicle
Once you have committed to scrapping your vehicle and have found someone to take it, it’s time to deregister it. This is important because your vehicle’s registration is a direct link to you. If you forget this step your plates might land in the wrong hands and land you in trouble.
- Head to either your local VTNZ or VINZ (Vehicle Testing or Vehicle Inspection New Zealand). For security reasons you cannot deregister vehicles online, so you will have to do it in person.
- Fill out an MR15 form. These will be available at the registered agent’s office.
- Bring proof of ID and $9.10 to cover administration costs.
- Bring your license plates! If you have unused registration time on your license you are eligible for a refund of the remaining time, but only if you bring your plates. Keep in mind: if you have outstanding licensing fees, you’ll have to pay those off, too.
But don’t forget…
Make sure all of your belongings are out of the vehicle! Check the boot, the glove box, and under the seats. You never know what might have fallen there…