Used auto parts are readily available in junkyards and offer a fantastic opportunity to get used components for a low price. Massachusetts has some great yard alternatives. We’ll go through finding a junkyard, how MA’s junkyards operate, popular yards in the state, and more. I will also share my experience with auto junkyards in Massachusetts.
Map of Junkyards in Massachusetts
For “junkyards in Massachusetts” or “Salvage Yards in Massachusetts”, see the map below…
How Do Junkyards in Massachusetts Work…
Standard state laws apply to all businesses in Massachusetts, including junkyards. This is why you’re charged a MA sales tax on used car parts–the same as you would be for any other product.
To operate a junkyard in Massachusetts, they must hold a Junk, Second Hand, and Salvage Dealer license and meet all Environmental Protection Agency laws.
Salvage yards in Massachusetts operate similarly to junkyards in other parts of the United States. Junk vehicles, such as cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, and other similar vehicles are bought, and then the used components are sold.
Vehicles come from a variety of sources including insurance companies, private owners, businesses, tow truck firms, and salvage auctions. Some cars will be purchased and either fixed or sent to auction with a salvage title. Others will have their parts sold off.
How Massachusetts Junkyards Process a Vehicle
Before a vehicle is pulled apart, it must first go through some essential processing.
This includes draining all fluids and removing parts that have a high resale value to protect them from deterioration. Parts that are typically pulled are the battery, alternator, starter, and in some cases the motor or transmission. Some fluids like windshield wiper fluid and antifreeze will be rebottled if they’re still usable.
Types of Junkyards in Massachusetts
MA is an expansive state with a plethora of auto dismantelers. The last time I counted, there were over 215 businesses that salvage, dismantle, recycle, scrap, or have some type of junkyard and recycling affiliation. In addition to general auto junkers, there are specialty yards for foreign autos, motorcycles, boats, RVs, and more.
Scrap yards and junk-a-car for cash buyers are also available in the state. That provides a lot of alternatives to selling a junked automobile. You may look around and try to get the most money possible.
Various Salvage Yard Models in Massachusetts
There are different business models for salvage yards in MA. Some let customers search and remove parts themselves, while others have staff members do it all. Some hybrids allow customers to self-serve to a degree. And finally, some places only sell online or out of a warehouse store.
Here is a general description of these salvage yard business models:
Parts Warehouses: These are junk yards that sell vehicle components after removing them from automobiles. In most cases, they will also offer used vehicle parts for sale over the internet. These organizations are well-organized and keep track of their inventory carefully. On average, prices tend to be greater since they do the work upfront to extract and label the components.
Self-Service Yards: Self-service yards are salvages that charge a modest administration fee to walk the lot and remove the components you want from the vehicles after they’ve been salvaged. As the name implies, you must handle all of the tasks yourself. In my experience with these junkyards in Massachusetts, they have lower-quality older automobiles at cheaper prices than others.
Full Service: A full-service yard is similar to self-serve, except for the fact that they pull the parts for you. This generally implies a more high-quality stock and higher costs. These yards will have newer, better-conditioned products. If you don’t have the know-how or tools to remove the component yourself, these yards are ideal.
Popular Auto Junkyards in Massachusetts
Different experiences may be found in each yard. It’s not just about locating high-quality used vehicle components; it’s also about how you’re treated. Other elements might come into play when you evaluate a salvage, such as the warranty/return policy, fair pricing, or availability of tools like an engine hoist.
You should think about location, inventory, quality, price, warranties, and customer service when looking for vehicle salvages in Massachusetts.
Here are a few popular junkyards with 4.5+ star ratings in Massachusetts:
- 114 Auto Salvage 297 N Main St, Middleton, MA 01949
- Salisbury Auto Salvage 16 Main St, Salisbury, MA 01952
- Westover Auto Salvage 147 Bay Rd, Belchertown, MA 01007
- George Mielke Used Auto Parts 100 Lime Kiln Rd, Sheffield, MA 01257
- FENIX Parts 800 Spring St, Winchendon, MA 01475
- Nationwide Auto Recycling 1340 Lunenburg Rd, Lancaster, MA 01523
- MASS Used Auto Parts 58 Sam West Rd, Southwick, MA 01077
Selling a Junked Automobile in Massachusetts
If you have a vehicle that you want to get rid of in Massachusetts, your best option is selling it privately. If you can’t find a private buyer, then sell it to a junkyard.
In the state of Massachusetts, you will need the title to junk a car. You’ll have to transfer ownership of the vehicle to the salvage company and adhere to state guidelines.
The process of selling a junk car in Massachusetts is as follows:
- First, find a buyer. wMA has a lot of junk vehicle buyers so shop around for your best offer.
- Agree on a price and how the vehicle will be transported
- Sign over the title of the vehicle to the new owner once you have been paid.
- The new owner will then take care of the paperwork required to officially transfer ownership and register the vehicle in their name.
Massachusetts Procedure for Transferring Vehicle Ownership
Selling a junked automobile in Massachusetts is like selling any other used auto. Follow these steps:
- 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 RMV office near you.
Learn more about transferring a title on the Massachusetts RMV website,
Buying a Salvage Vehicle in Massachusetts
But, on the other hand, you might want to acquire an automobile with a salvaged title in Massachusetts. Here’s what you should know…
- When you purchase it, you will pay Massachusetts state sales tax.
- You will need a way to transport the vehicle. They won’t do it for you unless you pay them.
- When you purchase the car from the junkyard, they will sign over the title to you. You’ll need this title when registering the vehicle.
- A certified inspector must inspect the vehicle to certify that it is safe to register. It can’t move out of the salvage title status without this.
- To register your salvage title, take your salvaged title, photo ID, and inspection report to any Massachusetts RMV.
- Provide your VIN, fill out the forms, and pay the fee.
What to Know About Salvage Yards in Massachusetts Before You Go
Salvage yards in Massachusetts are fun, but it can be brutal in the dead of winter. You should dress appropriately for the season.
A self-service salvage involves manual labor on your end, so make sure you’re prepared for your journey. That entails donning the proper apparel as well as bringing with you the necessary equipment.
My recommendations for MA 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
- Battery-operated heater for the winter
- Tools and someone to help you if you are pulling engine parts
Checking Junkyards in the Neighboring States
If you live close to a state border, take advantage of the numerous junkyards in neighboring states.
- New Hampshire
- New York
- Connecticut
- Rhode Island
Junkyards in Massachusetts – Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many benefits to visiting a salvage yard. You can find affordable parts for your car, and it’s a great way to recycle materials. Massachusetts has a lot of options when it comes to salvage companies, so do your research before you commit to one. Now go find your favorite junkyards in Massachusetts and pull some used parts.
