Georgia is a treasure trove of fantastic options when it comes to used car parts are great prices. Join me as we explore the the finest yards in the Peach State and provide expert advice on salvaging auto parts for cars, trucks, SUVs, and motorcycles. And stay tuned for my own firsthand experience with salvage yards in Georgia.
Map of Salvage Yards in Georgia
For “Junkyards in Georgia” or “Salvage Yards in Georgia,” refer to the map below…
How Auto Salvage Yards in Georgia Operate
Junkyards in Georgia are bustling private businesses that adhere to local tax laws just like any other enterprise. For example, sales tax is applied to used auto parts, ensuring a fair economic contribution.
To operate a junkyard business in Georgia that sells salvage autos, a facility must obtain a state license as a used auto dealership. If the yard deals in parts like a dismantler or rebuilder, they are required a separte license to operate and a $10,000 surety bond.
Additionally, these junkyards must adhere to specific environmental statutes, prioritizing pollution control and waste management of hazardous substances.
How an Auto Salvage Yard Gets a Large Inventory
Salvage yards in Georgia buy wrecked cars and trucks and sell their components to various companies or private owners. These yards buy cars or trucks from insurance providers or businesses involved in tow truck services and salvage auctions, ensuring a steady supply of vehicles.
Each junkyard operates under its own unique set of rules and regulations based on its business model, but collectively they play a crucial role in promoting auto recycling and sustainability within the state.
How Vehicles Are Handled
Depending on the condition of the automobile, it may undergo repairs, be auctioned off, or sold with a salvage title. If the car is beyond repair, it finds a new purpose in a junkyard, where people can salvage usable parts from it.
Processing of Vehicles at a GA Junkyard
Before a vehicle is sent for dismantling, certain crucial steps are needed. These involve draining all hazardous fluids like oil, gas, coolant, and wiper fluid.
If clean enough, fluids like windshield wiper fluid or antifreeze can be repackaged and resold.
Quality Used Parts are Pre-Pulled
Next the yard will extract specific high-value parts to preserve their condition and worth.Potential quality used car parts that might be removed include the battery, alternator, starter, or the motor or transmission. This is because the quality will deteriorate if left in the elements.
Sometmes transmissions or engines get rebuilt and then sold via a 3rd party with a meliage warranty.
Making Part Search and Vehcile Search Easier
Tagging and labeling vehicles with details like make, model, year, etc., make it easier for customers to find their desired items on their website. Not all yards do this, but the bigger yards certainly do.
Types of Junkyards in Georgia
While exploring the entire state for reliable auto-wrecking yards, I was blown away by the staggering number of businesses involved in salvaging, dismantling, recycling, or affiliated with junker yards. Surprisingly, Georgia alone has over 290 locations specializing in various types of import autos, RVs, SUVs, trailers, boats, airplanes, and more. This includes cash for car buyers.
Various Salvage Yard Models in Georgia
Salvage yards have varying business models. Some follow a self-service or full-service model, while others are hybrid or online-only operations. You can also find yards for cars, trucks, motorcycles, etc…
- Used Part Warehouses: This style of auto salvage yard take apart old vehicles and sell the parts either in-store or online. They keep things organized and label their inventory accurately, which may result in higher prices due to added labor costs.
- Self-Service Yards: At self-service salvage yards, customers pay a small fee to enter the premises and remove parts themselves. These yards typically have a large inventory of older, lower-quality vehicles, but they offer more affordable options. The level of organization varies by location and costs for common parts are standardized.
- Full Service: Full-service yards work similarly to yards with self services, but here employees assist customers or do the work on their behalf. This convenience comes at higher prices, but it often means higher-quality inventory is available. Full service is ideal for those lacking the skills or tools required for part removal.
Read Also: How Self-Service Yards Work
Popular Salvage Yards in Georgia
When deciding where to shop, several factors can impact your experience. Consider the quality of customer service, availability of tools like wheel barrows and hoists, where the yard is located, inventory, quality, and price. Make sure to also take into account warranties and return policies before making a decision on where you shop.
Here are a few popular junkyards with 4.5+ star ratings in Georgia:
- Go Pull it: 4600 Buford Hwy, Norcross, GA 30071
- Gray & White U Pull It: 1172 Field Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
- Pull-A-Part: 4416 Buford Hwy, Norcross, GA 30071
- Peacock Auto Salvage: 919 GA-49, Macon, GA 31211
- Pull-A-Part: 6513 Marshall Blvd, Lithonia, GA 30058
- Pull-A-Part: 1540 Henrico Rd, Conley, GA 30288
- Hodges Salvage: 1435 Bradley Gin Rd NW, Monroe, GA 30656
- Extreme Cash for Junk Cars: 1201 W Peachtree St NW Suite #2393, Atlanta, GA 30309
Located in the state of Georgia are a few popular junkyard franchises:
Finding Used Parts at an Auto Salvage Yard
When doing a parts search for a specific auto part, you can either go to a junkyard and pull it from a junk car or conduct an online parts search.
If the yard is easily accessible and has the auto part available, then opting for a traditional visit makes sense. However, if you are looking for rare or antique auto parts or prefer to shop from your couch, then online yards are a viable option. When searching and purchasing used car parts for resto projects I like to use Chuck and Eddy’s and Ebay Motors.
Finding Interchanable Parts or Using Alternate Locations
Don’t be discouraged if a particular facility doesn’t have the auto part you need. Many yards have interchange systems to cross-reference compatible parts from various makes and models. If the part is not available at one location, chances are it may be available on a junk car at another within the same franchise or nearby yards.
What Kind of Auto Parts Can You Find?
Junkyards in Georgia offer a wide variety of used car parts, including engines, transmissions, wheels, tires, doors, mirrors, panels, trim, wiring, suspension and electrical components.
Whether you are looking for a car, truck, or SUV, or Acura, Subaru, Ford, Chevy…you can find the right part. Additionally, you can also find rare or discontinued parts that may not be available through traditional dealerships. This is ideal for doing repairs on vintage vehicles with discontinued parts.
When purchasing from a salvage yard, it is essential to inspect the part thoroughly for any damage or defects. Some yards carry quality used parts, while others don’t have a great inventory. Most though have set prices for standard parts.
Also Read: How to Junkyard Like a Pro Picker
Selling a Junk Car in Georgia to Salvage Yards
If you’re looking to sell a junk car in Georgia, you’ve got a few choices. Start off by mulling over a private sale, and if that falls through, swing by a local junkyard. You’ll make more privately if your automobile is in decent enough shape. But if it’s junk, then junk it…
Typically You Will Be Offered Scrap Value
A salvage business will offer you cash based on the scrap metal value of your car. But if you believe your auto should cost them more, you can try haggling for a higher price. Say, if your ride has pricey add-ons, these factors could up its value beyond just scrap metal. It’s key to make a compelling case for why your car deserves more. Engines that run are worth more than ones that don’t.
You Must Own the Title
To properly scrap a ride in Georgia, you’ll need the car’s title. Once you’ve got that, you can sign off ownership to the salvage yard and be sure to abide by all state rules and regulations.
Also Read: How to Estimate the Value of a Junked Car
Georgia Procedure for Transferring Vehicle Ownership
If you’re in Georgia and looking to part ways with your old clunker, here’s what you gotta do:
- Get that title assignment done on the certificate and bring a bill of sale and odometer disclosure if needed.
- Fill out the vehicle title application form.
- Swing by a nearby GA DMV office.
For more deets on title transfers, check out the Georgia DMV website.
Buy Junk Cars in Georgia
- Pay the Georgia state sales tax when purchasing the vehicle.
- Arrange transportation for the vehicle at your own expense.
- After payment, the junkyard will transfer the title to you, allowing registration.
- Ensure a certified inspector assesses the vehicle’s safety before registration. This step is crucial for transitioning from salvage to rebuilt title.
- To register your salvage title in Georgia, visit any GA DMV office with your salvaged title, photo ID, and inspection report.
- Provide your VIN, complete required forms, and pay the fee.
Also Read: How to Insure a Car with a Rebuilt Title
What to Know About Salvage Yards in Georgia Before You Go
Consider the time of year and come well-prepared for your visit to a Georgia auto salvage. Summers can be super humid! Here are my top recommendations for attire and pulling auto parts:
- Dress appropriately for the weather
- Stay hydrated and keep extra water in your car
- Rock sunglasses and a hat
- Don’t forget sunscreen
- Gear up with mechanic-style gloves for part removal
- Keep hand warmers and winter gloves handy during cold seasons
- Opt for steel-toe boots
- Have deicer on hand for winter visits
- Stay cool with a battery-operated fan in the summer
- Bring your essential tools and consider having a helping hand for engine part removal.
Checking Junkyards in the Neighboring States
If GA doesn’t have what you need for used auto parts on your car or truck you can try an auto salvage yard in a neighboring state.
- Florida
- South Carolina
- Alabama
- Tennessee
Salvage Yards in Georgia Conclusion
Unearthing used auto parts and save money at the same time – that’s what exploring Georgia’s junkyards is all about! Get to know the best spots, find used auto parts for cars and trucks at great prices, and master the art of buying or selling salvage vehicles in GA. Don’t limit yourself, expand your search to neighboring states and remember to ask for a warranty on mechanical components.
