If you’ve got an old, wrecked, or totally undrivable car sitting in your driveway, you might be wondering—“Can a tow truck company actually buy my scrap car?” The answer is yes, absolutely! In fact, tow truck operators across Victoria (VIC) play a major role in the scrap car buying business. And if you’ve never gone through the process before, don’t worry—we’re going to walk you through it step by step.
Whether your car’s been in an accident, it’s just too expensive to fix, or it hasn’t run in years, selling it to a tow truck operator can be a simple, fast, and surprisingly rewarding experience. Let’s break it down.
So, Why Do Tow Truck Operators Buy Scrap Cars?
Good question! Tow truck operators—especially those who work closely with cash-for-cars services—aren’t just about towing broken-down cars off the freeway. Many of us also buy unwanted vehicles directly from owners.
Why? Because even if a car can’t be driven, it still has value. We’re talking:
- Recyclable metal
- Spare parts that can be reused or sold
- Engines and transmissions that might still be worth salvaging
Most tow truck businesses in VIC have connections with car wreckers, scrap yards, and recyclers. So when they buy your car, they’re helping to move it along the chain of auto recycling—and putting cash in your hand while they’re at it.
How the Process Works (It’s Easier Than You Think)
1. You Contact the Tow Truck Operator
First step? Give us a call or request a quote online. Just share a few basic details like:
- Make, model, and year of your vehicle
- Condition (Is it running? Is it damaged?)
- Your location in VIC
Don’t worry about cleaning the car or fixing anything—scrap car buyers don’t expect perfection.
2. We Give You a Quote
Based on the info you provide, we’ll give you a free quote. The price depends on factors like the car’s age, weight, make, whether it still has reusable parts, and the current scrap metal rates.
Pro tip: If your car still has its engine, battery, catalytic converter, or good tyres, mention it—they add to the value.
3. You Accept the Offer (or Not—Totally Up to You)
There’s no pressure. If you like the offer, we’ll book a pickup time that works for you—same day in most cases, especially in metro areas like Melbourne, Geelong, or Ballarat.
4. We Come to You With a Tow Truck
Our driver shows up, inspects the vehicle to make sure the details match, and if everything looks good, we:
- Hand over the cash (or make a bank transfer if you prefer)
- Load the vehicle onto the tow truck
- Sort out the paperwork on the spot
Simple, fast, and done without you even having to leave your house.
5. Your Car Heads to Its Next Life
Once we’ve taken your car, it’ll usually go to:
- A wrecking yard, where reusable parts are removed
- A recycling facility, where the metal is processed
- Or be dismantled and stripped down for any salvageable materials
Nothing goes to waste if we can help it. This isn’t just convenient—it’s environmentally friendly too.
What About Paperwork and Number Plates?
In Victoria, you’ll need to:
✅ Show proof of ID (a driver’s licence is fine)
✅ Remove the number plates before the car is towed
✅ Submit a Notice of Disposal to VicRoads (this officially lets them know you’re no longer the car’s owner)
Some tow truck operators will help guide you through this if it’s your first time.
Real Talk: What Kind of Cars Do Tow Truck Buyers Want?
Pretty much any car with four wheels (and sometimes even without!). We’ve picked up:
- Cars that haven’t started in five years
- Vehicles damaged in accidents
- Flood-damaged or fire-damaged cars
- Rusted-out utes and vans
- Cars with missing keys or flat tyres
The point is, if it’s a vehicle, it has some value—and we’re happy to take it off your hands.
Final Thoughts
Selling a scrap car doesn’t have to be a headache. Tow truck operators across VIC make it easy, fair, and hassle-free. You get rid of a problem vehicle, and we handle the rest—plus, you get paid on the spot.
So if you’re sitting on a rust bucket or a car that’s past its prime, don’t wait until it sinks into the grass or gathers another layer of dust.
Call your local tow truck buyer today and turn that scrap car into instant cash—no stress, no fuss.
Need a reliable tow truck operator to buy your scrap car in VIC? Reach out to us for a quick quote and same-day pickup!
If you are in Prahran, Victoria 3181, and looking for a cash for cars service, this is the best way to visit us.
Melbourne City Cash For Cars
201-207 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000