Check online reviews, verify their business registration, and confirm they have a physical address and working phone number. Reputable junk car buyers have a traceable business presence, positive customer feedback, and proper licensing for vehicle purchasing in their state.
Steps to verify a junk car buyer:
- Search their business name on Google and read reviews
- Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for ratings and complaints
- Look for reviews on Trustpilot, Yelp, or Facebook
- Verify the business address exists (use Google Street View)
- Call the phone number to confirm it’s answered professionally
- Ask for their dealer license number if required in your state
- Check your state’s dealer licensing database online
Most states require businesses that buy and sell vehicles to hold a dealer license. Salvage yards and auto recyclers need additional permits to handle vehicle disposal. Legitimate operations comply with these requirements.
A lack of online presence isn’t always a red flag for small local yards, but established buyers should have reviews somewhere. If you can’t find any information about a buyer, proceed cautiously or choose a more established option.
Taking 10 minutes to verify saves potential headaches. Learn what questions to ask a buyer before committing to a sale.
