Being placed in a situation where you must sell a damaged car is less than ideal, especially when uninsured. Add to that the stress of recovering from an accident, weighing up the cost of repairs and sorting through paperwork can make it seem overly cumbersome. Let’s begin with the basic questions: ‘What paperwork do I need to sell my car?’ ‘How can I go about selling a damaged car in the safest, quickest and most lucrative manner?’
We look to uncover the answers to make the paperwork hassle less burdensome:
What paperwork do I need to sell my damaged car?
Whether you’re selling a damaged car that was totalled yesterday or are looking to get rid of a non-running vehicle that has stood for months gathering dust in your backyard, the process of handling the paperwork is the same.
Begin by gathering all the essential documents required to process a change of ownership. Then, settle any outstanding fines and fill out the necessary forms.
Let’s unpack the admin/paperwork logistics for your peace of mind:
Step 1: Gather Essential Documents
Start by assembling the following key documents:
- Vehicle Registration Certificate: This serves as proof of ownership. It includes vital details like the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and registration number.
- Proof of Ownership: If your vehicle was financed, obtain a certificate from the financial institution confirming that the car is fully paid off and that there are no outstanding debts. If, however, the vehicle is still under finance, auctioneers like Sell Your Damaged Car are uniquely positioned to help you through the process of selling a damaged car that is still under finance.
- Valid Identification: Ensure you have a valid South African ID or passport to verify your identity during the sale process.
Step 2: Complete the Notification of Change of Ownership
Both the seller and buyer must fill out the Notification of Change of Ownership (NCO) form. This is available at local traffic departments.
This form facilitates the official transfer of ownership. After signing, submit a copy to the Department of Transport to update their records.
However, if you opt to sell your damaged vehicle to a trustworthy salvage auctioneer like Sell Your Damaged Car, this paperwork will be left to them..
Step 3: Settle Outstanding Fines and Fees Before Selling A Damaged Car
Before finalising the sale, all outstanding traffic fines and e-toll fees associated with the vehicle must be paid.
Unsettled fines can complicate the transfer process and may deter potential buyers.
Step 4: Provide Maintenance and Service Records (Optional)
While not mandatory, presenting a comprehensive service history can enhance the vehicle’s value and instil confidence in potential buyers, even if you are selling a damaged car to improve your credit score.
These records demonstrate that the car has been well-maintained, which is particularly reassuring when only your vehicle’s exterior is damaged.
Whittle down the paperwork – Choose a trusted selling platform
While you may be asking ‘What paperwork do I need to sell my car?’, you should ask, ‘Where should I sell my damaged car?’
This is because choosing a trustworthy, convenient and easy online damaged vehicle sales platform can solve both the sale problem and the paperwork in a few simple steps.
Partnering with an online salvage auctioneer like Sell Your Damaged Car simplifies the paperwork and the entire process of selling your non-running or accident-damaged vehicle.
Some helpful additional services that an online damaged vehicle sales platform provides should include the following:
- Paperwork: They manage the bulk of the paperwork to deregister your damaged vehicle, ensuring all legal requirements are met.
- Instant Payment: Once the sale is finalised, the payment is processed promptly, providing immediate financial relief.
- Free Towing: Have your non-running or damaged vehicle towed off your property or from the accident scene, free of charge.
- Transparent and Efficient Service: Upload your vehicle details in 90 seconds and receive an obligation-free offer within 24 hours.