If you’re in the market for cheap used car parts, auto junkyards are a great option. And if you happen to live in Delaware, you’re in luck – there are great choices of yards here. In this article, we’ll discuss how Delaware junkyards operate, talk about some of the best ones in the state, and share some tips for salvaging parts from cars effectively. Plus, I’ll share my experience with junkyards in Delaware.
Map of Junkyards in Delaware
For “junkyards in Delaware” or “Salvage Yards in Delaware”, see the map below…
How do Auto Junkyards in Delaware Operate
Unlike landfills, which are state-owned, all Junkyards in DE operate like regular local businesses and are privately owned. This means they’re subject to the same tax laws as any other business in the state–so you’ll not pay sales tax on used auto parts,
DE junkyards must be state-licensed automotive recyclers and meet all state ordinances. If the yard not only salvages parts but also sells salvage title vehicles, then it must also have a Delaware dealer’s license. In addition to those two state requirements, they must follow environmental protection laws and regulations regarding hazardous materials.
US junkyards, such as Salvage Yards in DE, primarily purchase junk vehicles- including cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans. Afterward, they resell the usable parts from these vehicles.
There are many different places where vehicles come from, such as insurance companies, private owners, businesses, tow truck companies, and salvage auctions.
Some of these vehicles will be bought and either fixed or sold with a salvage title. The majority of them however will be sent to the scrapyard so that the public can pick parts off of them.
Processing of Vehicles at a DE Junkyard
Before a vehicle is sent to be dismantled, it must go through some simple processing steps. Draining all liquids, including hazardous fluids, and removing any valuable parts that could be deteriorating. These include the battery, alternator, starter, and in more extreme cases the motor or transmission.
Not only do some yards tag and label their vehicles, but they also input the data into an online database. This makes it more convenient for customers to search through all available inventory. Some inventories even send out automatted alerts to subscribers to let them know when parts they are interested in arrive.
Types of Junkyards in DE
There are over 117 businesses in Delaware that salvage, dismantle, recycle, scrap, or have some type of junkyard and recycling affiliation. These businesses include both general auto junkers as well as specialty yards for imports, motorcycles, hub caps, and others.
The state also provides many opportunities to sell junk cars for cash. You can shop around and try to get the best price for your car.
Various Salvage Yard Models in Delaware
Different salvage yards in DE operate with different business models- some are self-service, others full-service, and there are also hybrid options. Some businesses only sell online or through a warehouse.
Used Part Warehouses: These places are where you go to buy used car parts that have been pulled from vehicles already. Most of them also sell their goods online. They usually do a good job of labeling everything and keeping things organized, but because they put in the effort to do all that work front, prices here tend to be higher on average than in other places.
Self-Service Salvages: At self-service junkyards, you pay a nominal fee to enter and scavenge parts from the cars. These are yards where you’re expected to bring your tools and do the work yourself. The organization of these yards varies depending on the location–I’ve found Delaware’s self-service junkyards tend to be cheaper, but with lower quality older vehicles.
Full Service: A full-service yard is just like self-service, except they either remove the parts for you or provide assistance. This typically results in a higher quality inventory is available, but prices are also usually a bit steeper. These businesses tend to have newer inventory that’s in good condition. If you don’t have the skills or tools needed to do the part removal yourself, then these yards might be right for you.
Popular Auto Junkyards in Delaware
A salvage yard is not just a place to find cheap car parts. The quality of customer service, prices, and other policies can vary widely from one establishment to another. Consider these things when picking a salvage yard in Delaware: location, inventory, quality, price, warranties, and return policy, and customer service.
Here are a few popular junkyards with 4.5+ star ratings in Delaware:
- Delaware Auto Salvage 469 Old Airport Rd, New Castle, DE 19720
- Bridgeville Auto Center 20416 Sussex Hwy, Bridgeville, DE 19933
- Caspers Auto Parts 741 S Market St, Wilmington, DE 19801
- Cress Auto Parts 453 Old Airport Rd, New Castle, DE 19720
- Two Guys Auto Parts 624 Garasches Ln, Wilmington, DE 19801
- Bennet & Cohey Junkyard 5639 Church Hill Rd, Chestertown, MD 21620
- Auto Parts of Greenwood 8316 Greenwood Rd, Greenwood, DE 19950
- Delaware Hub Cap Barn 4329 S Dupont Pkwy, Townsend, DE 19734
Selling a Junked Vehicle in DE
If you have an old, wrecked car in Delaware that you’re trying to sell, your local junkyards will likely be interested. You might get more money from a private sale, but a junkyard would be willing to take it off your hands.
Likely they will offer you the scrap metal value for your vehicle. The junkyard will then dismantle it and sell the parts. If you feel the vehicle is worth more than scrap, it’s up to you to negotiate for more money.
To scrap a car in Delaware, you’ll need to have the title in hand. The junkyard will want to verify that you own the vehicle and that it’s not stolen. You’ll also need to provide a valid photo ID.
The junkyard will then pay you in cash or check, depending on their policy.
It’s important to note that you are legally responsible for the vehicle until it’s transferred to the junkyard.
Delaware Procedure for Transferring Vehicle Ownership
Although it may appear to be, selling a junked car in Delaware is not different from peddling any other pre-owned vehicle. Simply adhere to these steps below:
- Complete the title assignment on the title certificate, and provide a bill of sale and odometer disclosure (if applicable).
- Complete the vehicle title application form.
- Visit any Delaware DMV office near you.
Learn more about transferring a title on the Delaware DMV website,
Buying a Salvage Vehicle in DE
Are you looking to buy a vehicle with a salvage title in Delaware? Here’s some information that can help you…
- When you purchase it, you should not have to pay sales tax as Delaware is a tax free state.
- You will need a way to transport the vehicle from the yard to your location.
- The junkyard will sign over the title to you (which you will need to register the vehicle).
- A certified inspector is required to inspect the vehicle and certify that it is safe to register.
- Take your salvaged title, photo ID, and inspection report to any Delaware DMV to register your salvage title.
- Provide your VIN, fill out the forms, and pay the fee.
What to Know About Salvage Yards in Delaware Before You Go
A trip to a Delaware salvage yard is an enjoyable experience but can be quite hot during summertime and freezing in the winter. Make sure you’re prepared for the weather conditions by packing appropriately. This includes not only wearing the right clothes but also bringing along the necessary tools. Remember that at a self-service salvage, you’ll need to do all the work yourself!
My recommendations for DE auto salvages are
- Clothing choices based on the time of year
- Water and even have extra in your car
- Sunglasses and a hat
- Sunscreen
- Mechanic-style gloves for pulling parts
- Hand warmers and winter gloves for winter
- Boots, preferably steel toe
- Deicer for winter
- Battery-operated fan for the summer
- Tools and someone to help you if you are pulling engine parts
Checking Junkyards in the Neighboring States
If you reside close to a state’s border, take advantage of the junkyards in those regions.
Junkyards in Delaware Conclusion
There you have it! Now you know everything there is to junkyards in Delaware. So, the next time your car breaks down or you’re looking for a good deal on a used car part, head on over to one of these salvage yards. Now find your favorite junkyards in Delaware and pull some used parts.
