Junk Car Salvaging and Removal in Alaska for Cash

Alaska junk car salvaging is dumping an old car that is wrecked, no longer on the road, beyond repair, or simply needs to be taken to a salvage yard. Alaska junk car salvaging is the act of buying a junk car that has car parts that are sold or recycled. Junk cars in Alaska have functioning car parts to be resold to those who are looking for replacements for such parts. On the other side, any components that aren't usable, are melted down into metal scrap, and then sold to businesses that recycle metal. Alaska junk car removal process is the removal of a vehicle by tow truck or flatbed, and then taken to the junkyard to be stripped down and recycled. Alaska junk car removal deals in the salvaging and removal of junk cars, which are typically called scrapyards, has recycling components within the junkyard itself. Scrapyards in Alaska are capable of dismantling all types of metals and recycling them into useful components such as Byron, steel, brass, copper, element, zinc, and so on. Junk car removal in Alaska pays cash for cars, whether they are used or junk. They have competitive offers, also pick up, and tow the vehicle away without extra charge.

Areas in Alaska such as Juneau, Bethel, Fairbanks, Wasilla, Sitka, and Yukon River have varying ordinances and programs that call for the need for Junk Car Removal. The Division of Environmental Health’s Solid Waste Program is responsible for mitigating concerns about regulations for vehicle waste disposal. The DEH stated that landfills are not avenues for junk car removal and to be redirected with other means like Junk Car Removal services or vehicle donation programs. The state of Alaska instated its law on junk car removal in its state legislature, HB222,  relating to abandoned, wrecked, or junk vehicles. It enacts and encourages regions of Alaska to create ordinances on the removal of vehicles, such as cars, that poses hazards to the health and safety of its citizens in proximity to the car.

What is the Alaska Car Wrecking and Disposal Program?

The Alaska Car Wrecking and Disposal Program varies in its administration and laws. Some are government-funded and others are not. These Disposal Programs are set in place to safeguard the health of its citizens and the environmental hazard that may ensue. Car parts such as batteries, fuel tank gas, and transmission fluid may emit gasses or cause an explosion when left unattended. Junk vehicle disposal programs enlist places to dispose of unused vehicles, as most landfills do not except junk cars for disposal.

Listed below are the three main administration laws in Alaska concerning Car Wrecking and its Disposal Programs.

  • Haines Borough, Alaska, employs its Junk Car Removal Program that collates requests from its citizens on unused or derelict vehicles. A tow truck or a flatbed truck is then sent to the location to transport the car or vehicle. This junk car disposal program comes with a fee of $50 that the vehicle owner pays.
  • Juneau, Alaska, provides junk vehicle programs free of charge for all its citizens. The Motor Vehicle Registration Tax (MRVT) is responsible for funding the disposal program in the city of Juneau from the budget provided by the DMV. The free service is limited to vehicle disposal and internal fluid removal.
  • Yukon River Watershed in Alaska imposes the Backhaul Program to curtail solid waste issues that affects the watershed river. The program is funded by the USDA and covers proper disposal of cars and solid waste management education for local Tribal workers.

There is a mandate in the Alaska legislature that every city must have its junk car disposal programs to address potential environmental and health hazards.

What are the laws for Alaska Car Recycling Laws?

The State of Alaska has localized laws when dealing with car recycling programs. These laws help regulate processes to extract car fluids and use car spare parts properly. An average of 3,000 to 7,000 tons of scrap metals are being processed, including those from car vehicles in areas including Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Wasilla, and Sitka.

Listed below are the three main laws for Car Recycling in Alaska.

  • The Alaska State Scrap Laws indicates regulations on junkyards and scrap metal dealers. It imposes requirements that need to be met by metal dealers, including a certificate of location, operation & maintenance, and corresponding penalties for any misdemeanor incurred.  Junk, as defined by the ordinance, covers used machinery, scrap metals, and wrecked automobiles.
  • The Municipality of Anchorage has developed curbside recycling collection efforts through its Solid Waste Services in Alaska. Locations such as the Anchorage Recycling Center and Regional Landfill agree on accepting recyclable materials such as those from cars like auto batteries, scrap metals, and motor oil.
  • The State of Alaska follows in accordance with the regulations set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency on the management of used oil and hazardous waste from auto repair shops. Toxic fumes and chemicals from cars all undergo proper waste management, either disposing of them or recycling. The presence of fuel inside the car vehicles is evaluated if they are deemed reusable. Car batteries are considered by the EPA as universal waste and must have stringent protocols for disposing of them.

The regulations imposed by the Environmental Protection Agency weigh the most in importance when recycling cars in Alaska. It has instituted in detail the proper recycling and management of potentially hazardous materials such as those in cars.

How to Sell Your Junk Car in Alaska?

Selling Junk Cars in Alaska is a common practice to get rid of unused cars. It's a win-win situation for both the owner of the vehicle and the junk car removal services. One opts to donate or sell the junk car, but the latter is the best option for most people. Nothing compares to the convenience that junk car removal services have in Alaska. Most even offer door-to-door transport of vehicles free of charge. In all areas including Fairbanks, Wasilla, and Sitka.

Listed below are the six main steps on how to Sell Junk Cars in Alaska.

  1. Finding the nearest possible salvage dealer in Alaska. Salvage dealers are the ones that process vehicles such as cars to be resold or dismantled to sell their scraps. Make sure that they are licensed and work for a reputable Junk car service provider.
  2. Writing down all the car information and documents that are possibly needed upon assessment. Some Junk Car Removal Services in Alaska provide an online information page where one enters the details of the junk car to be sold. Usual information includes car type, model, mileage, and the condition of the car parts. To get the best deal, try to send out one’s information to several dealers to get the best possible offer.
  3. Making sure to have the vehicle cleaned and empty from one’s personal belongings. One opts to retain or remove certain parts like the sound systems or security dash cameras to exclude them for sale. Also, review the terms and conditions set by the company in Alaska if it meets one’s expectations.
  4. Setting up a convenient pick-up time with the salvage dealer. A tow truck may be offered free from Junk Car Removal Services in Alaska or one could drive it to their office, only when it is deemed safe to drive it. When you sell your junk for cash, look for junk car buyers that offer free towing service.
  5. Allowing the salvage dealer to have the car assessed to come to terms with its worth and value. Once an agreement has been made, complete and carefully read the terms and conditions before signing anything. Make sure that the agreement is in line with the policies set according to Alaska’s regulations on selling Junk Cars.
  6. Negotiating a price between the junk car dealer and the owner should be set and be paid according to their agreement. Alaska junk car dealers usually issue a check or mail it to the owner when further assessment is needed for the salvage car.

Read more about how to sell your junk car for cash.

What are the myths about Junk Car Salvage and Removal in Alaska?

Listed below are the four main myths about Junk Car Salvage and Removal in Alaska.

  • Removal costs money: Junk car services in Alaska provides free towing, though some companies have a charge. They make the process easy for the seller because they want to buy the junk from the buyer. Some companies like I Buy Junk Cars, pick up the old car after an hour or within the day, and for free.
  • Only interested in certain models: Junk car removal companies are not meticulous for most makes and models. There is a market for salvage and old cars. Mention the car’s condition and history to the buyer. Some companies considers a car whether the keys are lost, or a burned car and find a way to recycle and sell it. If the vehicle is damaged due to exterior damage, its value decreases, and won’t be able to sell to a customer, but it doesn't mean that the interior is damaged too. Car removal companies in Alaska examine the parts before deciding the value of the vehicle.
  • They only buy particular junk cars in Alaska: Car removal companies takes vans, trucks, trailers, heavy equipment, and SUVs. Most of them sell cars for parts, and more cars mean they have more parts when needed.
  • Complicated: The process of junking a car in Alaska is simple and easy. Check who proposes the best offer, arrange a pick-up, and get paid in cash.

How do you improve the value of your junk car in Alaska?

To improve the value of your junk car in Alaska, do these four things. First, make sure you have the vehicle title. Alaska requires a vehicle title to junk a car. You may be able to junk your car without the title. However, the value of your junk car greatly decreases if you do not have the vehicle title. Our recommendation if you do not have the title is to get a replacement title through your local DMV in order to get the most money for your junk car.

Second, shop around and get multiple offers from junk car buyers in Alaska. Different junk car buyers offers different values in Alaska. Third, be completely honest about your vehicle’s condition. Being upfront about your vehicle’s condition helps get the most money. If something does not match up on the day of pickup it may result in a lower offer.

Lastly, sell when scrap metal prices are high in Alaska. Scrap metal prices are the biggest factor in the value of your junk car in Alaska. Therefore, junking your car when scrap car prices are high in Alaska helps get you the best value for your junk car.

How to know the value of your Junk Car?

Listed below are the values of your junk car.

Alaska Minimum Junk Car Price Maximum Junk Car Price
1990 Subaru Loyale $0.00 $100.00
2007 Ford Focus $50.00 $150.00
2005 Chevrolet Equinox $5.00 $240.00
1994 Ford Taurus Wagon $15.00 $220.00
2008 Jeep Commander $25.00 $185.00
1997 Chevrolet Blazer $20.00 $170.00
2004 Toyota Camry $5.00 $190.00
1997 Chevrolet Cavalier $10.00 $205.00
2006 Ford Focus $0.00 $210.00
Recent junk car prices in Alaska

Does Alaska pay more for junk cars than other states?

No, Alaska does not pay more for junk cars than other states. Compared to other bigger states in the U.S., like California and Texas,  Alaska has fewer cars. The reason behind it is the small population of the state. There are only 731, 721 residents in Alaska. Less population equals fewer cars on the road. There are also factors that affect the junk car salvaging and removal in Alaska for cash, like the extreme weather changes and poor road conditions of the state.

The states that pay more for junk cars than Alaska are:
Junk Car Salvaging and Removal in California for Cash
Junk Car Salvaging and Removal in Texas for Cash
Junk Car Salvaging and Removal in New York for Cash

What are the Best JunkYards in Alaska?

Listed below are the three best junkyards in Alaska.

  • Hilltop Recycling: Located in Chugiak Alaska, Hilltop Recycling is Alaska's’ source of quality used auto and equipment parts. They specialize in 4-wheel drive and foreign & domestic autos with 30 days warranty. Hilltop Recycling is one of the Best Junkyards in Alaska.
  • Northwest Auto Parts: Northwest Auto Parts is committed to recycling vehicles in an environmentally friendly way. They have achieved the highest level, United Recycling Group URG-8000. They recycle 99% of any vehicle. Furthermore, they are located in Anchorage, Alaska. They offer affordable quality parts with excellent service.
  • Interior Auto Salvage: Alaska’s fastest growing auto recycler. Interior Auto Salvage is a locally owned and operated business in the heart of Alaska. They have offered reliable, fast, and full dedication since 1987.

What are the most valuable parts on a junk car?

Listed below are the six most valuable parts on a junk car.

  • Engine: If an engine still runs in a junk car, it can have another life in another car. Most buyers in Alaska buy engines to rebuild, and it is one of the most valuable parts on a junk car. An engine that is not working  contains aluminum and can be a recyclable metal.
  • Wheels and Tires: Wheels and tires are probably one of the easiest parts to remove in a junk vehicle are the wheels and tires. They are also the easiest to assess, among other parts. The wheels and tires can be sold separately. There is a high demand for used tires, so it’s easy to find a buyer in Alaska.
  • A/C: Working A/C systems are easily resold. Separating the parts gives the most money. A functioning compressor is versatile and are used and repaired by many other A/C systems for junk cars in Alaska.
  • Catalytic Converters: Catalytic converters are valuable because they carry expensive metals such as palladium, rhodium, or platinum. These metals are in high demand in Alaska and a popular subject of thieves.
  • Transmission System: Wheels are incapable of turning if the transmission is not functioning. The repair costs around $4,000 to $5,000. The estimated global value of the automotive transmission market is $109 billion, and these numbers prove how valuable transmissions systems are.
  • Battery. Repairing a hybrid car battery costs about $6,000.

How many Junk Cars are wrecked a year in Alaska?

Every year, over 25 million tons of material is recycled from junk vehicles. The most recycled consumer product in the world today is automobiles. Around 80% of a car can be recycled and every year, more than 14 million tons of recycled steel is derived from junk automobiles. According to a report from the Alaska Department of Transportation, there were about 100 vehicles taken to the Bethel landfill last year to be junked. These abandoned cars cost the state $50 to dump vehicles.

Does Junk Car Medics salvage cars in Alaska?

Yes, Junk Car Medics salvage cars in Alaska. There is only one Junk Car Medics facility in Alaska, and it is located in  Anchorage, and it covers the entire state. Junk Car Medics uses a modern mobile app in evaluating a junk vehicle. Customers have easy access using a mobile phone whenever they plan to sell a junk car and ask for a price quote. Junk Car Medics in Alaska price ranges from $60 to $70.

What to know about the Junk Car Industry in Alaska?

The whole auto salvage and auto wrecking industry is a $25 billion industry. Junk Cars in the USA are worth much more than anyone can think. However, contrary to its large area, Alaska does not have a big junk car industry. The population of cars in Alaska has a total of 171, 144. It is the state with the fewest cars.  Alaska  has existing  rules when it comes to junk cars. In Alaska, it is unlawful for any owner within the city to keep or store junk unless it is located within an enclosed building. The state of Alaska instated its law on junk car removal in its state legislature, HB222,  relating to abandoned, wrecked, or junk vehicles. It enacts and encourages regions of Alaska to create ordinances on the removal of vehicles, such as cars, that may pose hazards to the health and safety of its citizens in the local community.

How to Choose a Junk Car Buyer in Alaska?

There are a good deal of junk car buyers in Alaska, and choosing the best one is important. Having more options allows anyone to decide which junk car buyers  offer the best deal. Finding a trusted and  reliable junk car buyer may be a bit confusing because most of them offer the same services. Knowing and understanding  all the factors to consider when finding the right junk car buyer makes selling a junk vehicle a breeze.

Listed below are the ten main steps on how to choose a junk car buyer in Alaska.

  1. Understanding the vehicle’s condition: Understanding the vehicle's condition is the first step when deciding to sell a junk car in Alaska. Identify the car’s strengths and if it still has parts that can be reused. A better condition car has more value.
  2. Compare rates: Comparing rates for as many different junk car buyers in Alaska as possible. Most junk vehicle buyers promise to offer a good amount of instant cash. Look for many options and always compare prices. Find a  junk car buyer that offers the most cash in the area and get a good deal.
  3. Find the nearest location: Finding the nearest junkyard in Alaska when it comes to getting a good deal out of a junk vehicle, the location is key. It is more practical to check first the local junkers near the location. Most Junk Car Buyers offers free towing, but some may not consider it, especially if it is too far from the location.
  4. Understanding the processing time: Selling a junk car in Alaska gives instant cash to the pocket, but it takes some process. Learn to set a timeline when deciding to sell a junk car. Always ask when they will pick up the car or what are all the requirements needed.
  5. Do the car valuation at home: Assessing the value of the car at home before heading to a junkyard is one way of knowing the value of a junk vehicle in Alaska. In that way, one can easily have an idea of the price range. The amount offered is most likely to be the same as the online price quote. A damaged, not roadworthy car with missing parts costs less and the seller is not expected to gain higher value.
  6. Check the website: Checking the website of a junk car buyer to get the value of junk car in Alaska. It is also helpful, especially when a seller wants to know the company’s services offered and client reviews. Most online junk car buyers offer free price quotes through their websites.
  7. Look for a trusted company: When dealing with any kind of  business, transact only with a reputable company. A junk car buyer in Alaska with many years of service and experience is most likely to ensure its customer a fair process. Transacting with a trusted junk car buyer company eliminates the chance of being scammed.
  8. Learn what the junker does with the parts: Ask the junker what happens to the car after. Some junk car buyers in Alaska will sell the scrap metal. Engines or other useful parts for another person. It is nice to know that a company is also doing something to help the environment.
  9. Towing: Ask if the towing is free. Make sure that the junk car company in Alaska offers a free towing service and does not give an additional charge.
  10. Professionalism is important: Looking for junkers who are professionals to have a smooth transaction when selling a junk vehicle in Alaska. The junk car buyer is to be kind, courteous, and helpful during the whole process. Good customer service is also important and that is what makes a client go back.

Is the Junk Car Industry Big in Alaska?

No, the junk car industry is not that big in Alaska. The population of Alaska is pretty small, there are only 731, 721 residents in the whole state. There are only 171, 144 cars in Alaska, and it is the U.S. state with the fewest cars. Thus, making the junk car industry in Alaska not prominent.

What are the necessities to open a Junk Car Facility in Alaska?

To open a junkyard or junk car facility anywhere requires some legal steps and documents for it to operate. The same thing goes for the state of Alaska. One must carefully plan a salvaging business in Alaska, because it has the most extreme weather. There is also some equipment that one needs to start a junkyard. The salvage yard must have proper fencing and other security features like cameras around the facility.  Prepare all the necessary legal documents required in the area. Register the junkyard business for taxes. It is also required that junk car owners need to open a business bank account and credit card. Always get the necessary permits and licenses, and that includes the legal fees. It is best to get insurance for the junkyard business in Alaska. Identify the business brand and think of an appropriate name for the junkyard business. Most junkyard businesses have witty and catchy names so that clients easily remembers them. Set up a business phone and website so that clients easily find and contacts the junkyard.

How does Alaska define a Junk Vehicle?

The state of Alaska defines a junk vehicle as a motor vehicle that is not currently registered for operation on Alaska's public roads. A junk vehicle’s condition has broken glass, missing body parts, missing drive train parts, missing wheels or tires, or be stripped, wrecked or otherwise inoperable due to mechanical failure.

Are Motorcycles, Bicycles and Other Vehicles included for Junk Vehicle Removal in Alaska?

In Alaska, junk vehicles are either recycled or properly disposed of in a designated landfill. Vehicles include cars, motorcycles, ATVs, trucks, outboard motors, and snow machines. However, bicycles are not included for junk car removal in Alaska.

Is it better to donate your junk car instead of selling it in Alaska?

It is better to sell your junk car instead of donating it in Alaska. When asked, should you sell or donate your junk car, it is important to know the difference between the two. Donating a junk car includes many paper works, unlike selling it, especially to a junk car buyer. Although donating a junk vehicle is a good way of helping a charitable institution. Donating a car allows the owner to take a tax deduction, while junking a car provides instant cash. If a junk car owner is really determined to do charity work, junking a car is a good idea to instantly gain a cash payout. After junking the car, the money is donated to a charitable institution.

How to Shield a Junk Vehicle from Public View in Alaska?

In Alaska, it is important to properly maintain a junkyard, especially if it is located on public highways and other roads maintained by the state. Any Junkyard must be properly screened and not visible to the public. The owner of the junkyard must shoulder the cost for the necessary screening. Junkyard owners use plantings, fences, natural objects, or other appropriate means so as not to be visible from the main-traveled highway.

What is the penalty of Junk Vehicle Law in Alaska?

Junk and Abandoned Vehicle law in Alaska states that it is unlawful to abandon a car on a street or highway within the borough, according to the 8.20.020 Abandoned Vehicles Act. The penalty for violating the junk vehicle law in Alaska as a general penalty for violations is a fine of not less than  $100 and not more than $500. Each day of the violation shall be a separate violation and is subject to an additional penalty.

Information about State of Alaska and Junk Vehicles

Alaska is the largest U.S. state in terms of area, comprising more total area than the next three largest states combined. It is the third-least populous and the most sparsely populated state. The capital city of Alaska is Juneau. Currently, Alaska has a population of 736, 081 according to the 2020 census. The U.S. state of Alaska is divided into 19 organized boroughs and one unorganized borough. A borough is a town or district which is an administrative unit.  Alaska and Louisiana are the only states that do not call their first-order administrative subdivisions counties. Alaska has 19 organized boroughs and 11 census areas, and that equivalents to 30 counties. The three biggest counties in Alaska are Anchorage Municipality, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, and Fairbanks North Star Borough. The oil and gas industry dominates the Alaskan economy, with more than 80% of the state’s revenues from petroleum extraction. The main export product of Alaska is seafood, mostly salmon, crab, pollock, and cod. Employment in Alaska is primarily in government offices and industries such as natural resource extraction, shipping, and transportation. Alaska is located in the Western United States on the northwest extremity  of North America. Alaska is not bordered by another state. It borders Canada to the east, and it shares a maritime border with Russia to the west. Hence, gaining its nickname “The Last Frontier”.  Mike Dunleavy is the current Governor of Alaska, and Joe Biden is the 46th and current President of the United States. There are only 171, 144 cars in Alaska, and it is the U.S. state with the fewest cars. That is somewhat reflected in the low percentage of junk vehicles and Alaska junk car removal businesses. The total economic mass of Alaska is driven by the oil, tourism and fishing industry.

How does the Covid-19 affect Junk Car Salvage and Removal in Alaska?

Covid-19 has affected most industries globally. In Alaska, like many other industries out there, the junk car salvage and removal industry felt the impact of the pandemic. With fewer cars on the roads means there are fewer people needing car parts. During the pandemic, most people stayed at home and did not want to visit salvage yards in fear of contracting the Covid-19 virus. Some industries have stopped their operations and need to lay off employees. Although, one good note that the pandemic has caused is the improvement in hygiene and health safety. It changes the way of doing business without having to do face-to-face transactions. Doing business online has been prominent during the pandemic. An old-fashioned industry like junk car salvage and removal has become digital and online. One easily inquires and requests a price quote using the internet when planning to sell a junk vehicle in Alaska.

What is the importance of Junk Car Salvaging and Removal?

Whenever a car reaches its end of life, usually it stays in a garage for too long and  be neglected. It needs repair, but costs more than its total value. One may need a junk car salvage and removal service. Junking a car in Alaska provides instant cash, and provides environmental good. Not only does it eliminate an eyesore in one’s garage, it provides more space in someone’s home. Car recycling facilities follow strict regulations that make their operations socially and ethically safe. Thus, junking a car, not only does something that benefits mother nature, it promotes a healthy community. A junk car salvaging and removal company that is environmentally friendly helps in eliminating more junk in landfills. When trash in landfills decomposes, it releases greenhouse gasses that are harmful to the air, ground, and water. When thinking about junk car salvaging in Alaska, it does not only involve auto parts and scrap metals. There are harmful toxic substances in a junk car and one of them is used oil. These liquids and other chemicals in a car are toxic and needs to be handled properly. Junkyard owners are professionals who handle these kinds of harmful substances and dispose of them properly according to government rules. Almost all  junk car buyers offer free price quoting online, and it is an easy way on how to sell your junk car during the Covid-19 pandemic.  The Covid-19 pandemic caused an increase in prices on junk cars in Alaska.