Mississippi has some top-notch options for used auto parts. Below we will explore the workings of the state’s junkyards, uncovering some of the best places to save money on parts in the state. Plus, I’ll share my experience with pulling auto parts from junkyards in Mississippi.
Map of Junkyards in Mississippi
For “Junkyards in Mississippi” or “Salvage Yards in Mississippi”, see the map below…
How Does a Mississippi Auto Salvage Work?
Junkyards in Mississippi are privately owned businesses that follow tax laws like other local businesses. In other words, you will pay sales tax on the parts that you pull.
Salvage yards in Mississippi purchase junk cars of various models and sell their components to companies or private owners. They acquire their inventory from insurance providers, tow truck services, and salvage auctions.
Foreign and domestic cars of various models are repaired, auctioned off, or sold with a salvage title. If the cars or trucks are too damaged to be fixed, it is brought to a junkyard for the public to pull parts from it.
Every yard operates based on its own set of rules and regulations that are in line with its business model. However, they all play a crucial role in the auto recycling industry of the state.
Also Read: 11 Unspoken Rules for Junkyard Etiquette
Processing of Vehicles at an MS Junkyard
In MS, cars are sent for dismantling, and certain crucial steps are required. This entails draining all hazardous fluids and extracting specific high-value parts to preserve their condition and value.
Fluids like oil, gas, and coolant are drained. If the liquid is clean it is rebottled and sold, if not it is recycled according to the MS state guideline.
Some Auto Parts are Pre-Pulled from Cars and Trucks
Certain auto parts such as the battery, alternator, and starter are removed from the cars or trucks in the shop. This ensures that those green recycled parts don’t deteriorate in the humid Mississippi weather. Other parts like engines and transmissions might also be taken out. If so, they will be rebuilt and resold with a warranty.
Types of Junkyards in Mississippi
Im my search I found MS has over 206 specialized businesses dealing with a wide range of foreign and domestic vehicles, cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, motorcycles, and more.
Additionally, there are plenty of scrap yards and cash for car buyers available in the state, giving you plenty of chances to sell your junk car or truck. Take your time to investigate and secure the most advantageous deal.
Salvage yards operate with different business models depending on the state. Some follow a self-service or full-service approach, while others are hybrid businesses or online-only warehouses.
Reclaimed Auto Parts Shop
These enterprises disassemble junk vehicles and sell used auto parts both in physical stores and through online platforms. They uphold meticulous organization and precise inventory labeling, which may lead to slightly higher prices owing to the additional labor involved. It is easier to search for auto parts in a store of this nature.
Pick and Pull Self Service Yards
In self-service salvage yards, customers can access the property and personally search and remove auto parts from a car or truck. While these yards mainly contain older, lower-quality vehicles, they provide more affordable choices. The level of organization may vary depending on the location.
Full Service Yards
Full-Service Yards: Full-service yards function much like self-service yards but with the added benefit of employee assistance or work performed on behalf of customers. Customers can search for their auto parts and then an employee will pull it for them. This convenience comes at a higher price.
Pulling Auto Parts in an MS Auto Salvage
In my experience most MS salvages open during the week with standard business hours and then closed Sunday. During the week, and particularly on a Monday, you will find fewer customers to compete with as you shop for used auto parts. Inventory however at most yards comes on Tuesdays, which makes Tuesday and Wednesday the best days to pull auto parts.
Here are some of the most common auto parts that get pulled from a junkyard’s inventory…
- Wheels and tires
- A/C Compressors
- Radiators
- Headlights, taillights and other electrical components
- Doors, mirrors and other body parts
- engines and transmissions
- Windows
Also Read: What to Consider When Pulling Junkyard Parts
Popular Auto Junkyards in Mississippi
When you’re picking a salvage yard in MS, there are numerous factors to think about that can affect your experience. Take into account customer service, the hours they are open, location, inventory quality, and price. I also think it’s important to consider how you search, do they have a database of inventory or is your only option to visit the yard?
Here are a few popular junkyards with 4.5+ star ratings in Mississippi:
- J&J Cars LLC Auto Salvage: 3934 US-72, Lamar, MS 38642
- Pull A Part: 4000 I-55 South, Jackson, MS 39212
- Shuqualak Salvage: 8389 Shuqualak Rd, Shuqualak, MS 39361
- Biloxi Auto Recycling: 13464 Scruggs Ln, Biloxi, MS 39532
- Keith Auto Recyclers: 189 Dalton Ln, Pontotoc, MS 38863
- S&K Junk Cars: 6515 Goodman Rd #214, Olive Branch, MS 38654
- KW Cook’s Auto Salvage: 7414 Woolmarket Rd, Biloxi, MS 39532
Mississippi is also the home of one of the most popular junkyard franchises:
Selling a Junked Vehicle in Mississippi
Whether you have foreign or domestic vehicles that are junk in Mississippi you can sell it for parts or as a whole for cash. First, think about a private sale. Selling it on your own will bring in more cash, than what a wrecking yard will offer you.
Your First Offer for a Junk Car Will Be It’s Scrap Vale
Junkyards typically offer the value of a car or truck based on its scrap metal price. You can estimate that by figuring out how much your vehicle weighs and then looking up its value in scrap metal. Not every shop will have the same offer so search around for your best deal. Scrap prices fluctuate daily, so what you get offered today, may be the same offer you find tomorrow.
Negotiate a Better Price
If you think your car is worth more, you can negotiate for a higher price by highlighting factors like its running condition or valuable aftermarket auto parts. Justifying why your car deserves a higher value is crucial.
A running car is worth more than one that isn’t running. If there are a few minor repairs you could make, it might be worth it to increase the value of the car or truck.
Also Read: What Personal Data You Must Clear Before Selling or Junking a Vehicle
Mississippi Procedure for Transferring Vehicle Ownership
If you’re located in MS and looking to sell your old junked car to have its green recycled parts reused, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you out:
- Fulfill the title assignment on the title certificate and furnish a bill of sale, along with an odometer disclosure if relevant.
- Complete the application form for the vehicle title (See FAQ here)
- Go to any nearby MS DPS.
Buying a Salvage Vehicle in Mississippi
Curious about buying a car with a salvage title in Mississippi? Keep reading to uncover all the vital details…
- You will pay Mississippi state sales tax when purchasing the vehicle.
- Make your arrangements for towing
- Once payment is made, the junkyard will transfer the title to you, allowing you to register it.
- Ensure your vehicle undergoes a safety assessment by a certified inspector before registering it. This step is vital for transitioning from a salvage title to a rebuilt title.
- For Mississippi salvage title registration, visit any MS Drivers Service Bureau with your salvaged title, photo ID, and inspection report.
- Provide your VIN, complete the necessary paperwork, and pay the required fee.
What to Know About Salvage Yards in Mississippi Before You Go
Take into account the time of year and ensure you come prepared. Mississippi summers can be challenging, so make sure to dress appropriately and bring along the necessary tools to make the task easier.
These are my suggestions for exploring MS auto salvages:
- Dress for the weather and stay comfortable
- Stay hydrated and keep water handy in your car
- Rock sunglasses and a hat for style and protection
- Slather on sunscreen to shield your skin
- Gear up with mechanic-style gloves for part removal
- Step up with steel-toe boots for added safety
- Keep cool with a battery-operated fan in the summer
- Bring the right tools and consider getting a helping hand when taking out engine parts.
Checking Junkyards in the Neighboring States
If you reside near a state border, you can also conduct your search with a visit to another state…
Junkyards in Mississippi Conclusion
Mississippi junkyards are a treasure trove of hidden gems, where you can unearth used auto parts for cars and trucks. A search for parts can be a challenge so know your needs and the types of vehicles you can interchange auto parts with. And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t hesitate to venture into neighboring states to broaden your search.
