New Hampshire auto junkyards are a budget-friendly place to find used car parts. While New Hampshire is one of the smaller states, it has some great salvage yards worth checking out. In this article, we will discuss how junkyards in New Hampshire operate, where to find the best ones in the state, and tips for part salvaging. I will also share my own experience with NH junkyards.
Map of Junkyards in New Hampshire
For “Junkyards in New Hampshire” or “Salvage Yards in New Hampshire”, see the map below…
How do Auto Junkyards in New Hampshire Operate
Junkyards in New Hampshire, similar to other businesses in the state, are privately owned rather than being possessed by the government as a landfill might be. Also mirroring other statewide businesses, they’re obliged to follow tax laws; thus, you won’t pay sales tax on used car parts as NH is a tax-free state.
To be a licensed junkyard in New Hampshire, you must first meet all state requirements and ordinances. This includes having a state license if you plan on selling salvage title vehicles. You must also follow specific laws regarding the protection of the environment and how to handle hazardous materials.
Salvage yards in New Hampshire, while they may operate like any other US junkyard, have a few main differences. Rather than simply purchasing junk vehicles and selling them off piecemeal, these businesses also purchase salvage title cars, meaning that the vehicle was totaled at some point but still has many working parts.
These vehicles come from different sources like insurance companies or private owners who no longer want the car to take up space. Some yards will refurbish these automobiles and either auction them off or sell them with a salvage or rebuilt title; others merely dismantle the autos for their functional parts.
The majority of vehicles are taken to the salvage yard where members of the public can purchase parts. Each yard has different operations depending on its business model, but they all play an integral role in vehicle recycling within the state.
Processing of Vehicles at a New Hampshire Junkyard
Before a vehicle can be sent to the pick and pull, it must go through some essential processing. This includes removing hazardous fluids and some of the best-selling parts that could deteriorate or lose value when left outside.
In most cases, they will always remove the battery, alternator, and starter. The motor and/or transmission may also be extracted. Some fluids like windshield wiper fluid and antifreeze will be cleansed before being put back on sale if they’re still usable.
Some companies will tag and label their vehicles before entering their data into an online database. This makes it easier for customers to search for specific items in inventory.
Types of Junkyards in NH
Although New Hampshire is one of the smaller states, it still features a large number and variety of salvage yards. The last count I did showed that there were over 150 businesses in the state that salvage, dismantle, recycle, scrap or have some type of recycling.
There are a lot of scrap yards and car buyers in the state, so there are plenty of opportunities to sell your junk vehicle. You can shop around and try to get the best price.
Various Salvage Yard Models in New Hampshire
Some salvage yards in New Hampshire are self-service, while others are full-service. There are also hybrid business models and those that sell online only or through a warehouse.
Used Part Warehouse: In most cases, these types of yards sell their used auto parts online as well as in a warehouse. These businesses typically have an organized system for pulling and labeling parts, which makes finding the right part easier but also drives up prices on average since you are paying for their labor.
Self-Service Salvage Yards: These are your classic pick-and-pull-your-parts yards. While the quality of vehicles may be lower at self-service junkyards in New Hampshire, these yards typically have cheaper prices. At a self-service salvage yard, you pay a small admin fee to walk the property and remove parts from vehicles as desired. As implied by its name, self-service requires that customers bring their tools and do all the work themselves. The level of organization varies depending on the yard.
Full Service: If you don’t have the skill or tools to do it yourself, a full-service yard is the better option. The prices will be more expensive, but the inventory will be higher quality and newer. While they are called full service, not all these yards do all the work for you, some just assist.
Popular Auto Junkyards in New Hampshire
The experience you have at a salvage yard can differ significantly from one place to the next. it’s not only about getting your hands on some high-quality used auto parts, but also how you’re treated by staff and management.
Things like a solid warranty/return policy, fair pricing, or even having access to tools like an engine hoist can play a part in how satisfied customers are with their decision to visit a particular salvage. When searching for salvage in New Hampshire, be sure to take into account things like location, inventory size& condition, quality of the inventory, price point, warranties & return policies, as well as customer service & general attitude.
Here are a few popular junkyards with 4.5+ star ratings in New Hampshire:
- P3 Auto Salvage 256 Hurricane Rd, Belmont, NH 03220
- Northwood Auto Salvage 690 1st New Hampshire Turnpike, Northwood, NH 03261
- Camero Haven/Drew Auto Parts 112 Clark Rd, Tilton, NH 03276
- Jean-Guy’s Use Cars and Parts Inc 180 Marsh Rd, Pelham, NH 03076
- Ken’s Auto Salvage 18 Powwow River Rd, Kingston, NH 03848
- Bow Auto Parts 1317 NH-3A, Bow, NH 03304
- Majestic Motors Inc 734 r Daniel Webster Hwy, Merrimack, NH 03054
- Colony Auto Parts 181 A Milton Rd, Rochester, NH 03868
- Buffum Auto Parts 3 Buffum Rd, Swanzey, NH 03446
- Wailer Chevrolet Parts 195 Winchester St, Keene, NH 03431
Selling a Junked Vehicle in NH
New Hampshire residents looking to receive money for their old, broken-down vehicles have a few options, the first being selling it privately and the second taking it to the junkyard. To get the most money from a vehicle, a private sale is recommended to try first.
Most salvage companies will only offer you the scrap metal value of your car, but it is possible to negotiate a higher price by explaining why your car is worth more than just its parts. For example, if it runs (even if not well), that’s a good start. If there are expensive parts still on it like a catalytic converter even though it doesn’t run, that’s another point in your favor. You’ll have to make a case for why your car is worth more than its scrap value.
If you want to sell your junk car in New Hampshire, you’ll need the title. You’ll have to transfer ownership of the vehicle to the salvage yard and follow state rules.
New Hampshire Procedure for Transferring Vehicle Ownership
To sell your old, broken-down car in New Hampshire, follow these steps:
- You must sign the title to transfer it and include a bill of sale as well as an odometer disclosure form (if necessary).
- Complete the vehicle title application form.
- Visit any NH Division of Motor Vehicles office near you.
Learn more about transferring a title on the New Hampshire DMV website.
Buying a Salvage Vehicle in NH
Are you interested in purchasing a car with a salvage title in New Hampshire? Here’s what you need to know…
- When you purchase it, you will not pay sales tax.
- You will need a way to transport the vehicle from the yard to your location.
- The junkyard will give you the title to the vehicle, which is necessary to register it.
- A certified inspector must inspect the vehicle to ensure it is safe to register if you want to move the title from a salvaged state to a rebuilt state.
- Take your salvaged title, photo ID, and inspection report to any New Hampshire DMV to register your salvage title.
- Provide your VIN, fill out the forms, and pay the fee.
What to Know About Salvage Yards in New Hampshire Before You Go
A salvage trip to New Hampshire can be awesome, but in winter months the deep freeze can beat you down. Keep this in mind when you plan your trip and schedule it for a time of year that suits you best. Since self-service is required at most locations, make sure to pack appropriately with plenty of water and sunblock even in the winter. And don’t forget – the right tools will make all difference!
My recommendations for NH 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
- 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.
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- Vermont
Junkyards in New Hampshire Conclusion
If you want to find affordable parts for your vehicle, junkyards are the place to look. New Hampshire is also home to many salvage companies that will offer you money for your junk car. Be sure to have the title and required documents before heading to the junkyard, as they will need them to process the sale. With a little negotiation, you can get more money for your vehicle than just the scrap value. Keep in mind that junkyards are typically closed on Sundays, so plan your trip accordingly. Now find your favorite junkyards in New Hampshire and pull some used parts.
