Scrapping your old car sounds simple. Call a company. Hand it over. Get paid. But what catches many car owners off guard is the paperwork. If you’re in Western Australia, there’s a list of documents you’ll want to prepare in advance. These aren’t complicated, but missing even one can slow down the process.

At Perth Scrap Car Removal, we often hear from locals in Perth. Most people just want the car gone without stress. No fines and no last-minute surprises. We get it. That’s why this guide keeps things simple. No jargon. No confusion. Just real answers to help you sort it out and move on.

What Documents Do You Need to Scrap a Car in WA?

The most important document is proof of ownership. If your name is on the registration papers or the title, you’re good to go. But if you bought the car second-hand and never transferred the paperwork, things can get tricky. In most cases, showing a receipt or a bill of sale works. A licensed removal company will not take your car without some form of legal ownership.

This is also the point where people ask: Is a bill of sale required? Not by the government—but it’s smart to have one. It helps both parties in case questions come up later.

How to Cancel Car Registration When Scrapping a Car in WA

After your vehicle is picked up, you’ll need to cancel the registration with Department of Transport WA. The easiest way is online through your DOTDirect account. Fill out the Cancellation of Vehicle Licence (VL186) form and return the license plates. If you hand over the car while it’s still registered, you’re responsible until this step is complete.

Does Perth Scrap Car Removal Handle Deregistration?

No. Most scrap car buyers in WA don’t handle deregistration on your behalf. It’s your responsibility as the last registered owner to complete the cancellation. However, Perth Scrap Car Removal can guide you through it. If you’re unsure, we’ll show you where to submit the form and which boxes to tick.

Do I Need to Deregister an Unregistered Car?

If your car is already unregistered, there’s no need to submit a cancellation form. But that doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. You should still submit a Notification of Disposal, so the Department of Transport knows the vehicle has changed hands. This is where people often get confused.

What’s the Notification of Disposal Form?

Think of it as your official way to say: Hey, I don’t own this car anymore. It’s also known as a release of liability. This form protects you from any legal or financial responsibility once the car is scrapped. You can lodge it online or at a service center. It takes just a few minutes and gives peace of mind.

Where to Get a Removal Certificate for a Scrap Car?

A vehicle removal certificate is something you can request from the buyer. While not a government-issued form, it works as a receipt. Perth Scrap Car Removal provides one after pickup. It states that we’ve taken possession of the vehicle and paid you for it. Keep it for your records, it helps with any future proof you might need.

Steps to Prepare Documents for Scrap Car Pickup in Perth

Here’s a quick checklist:

  • Keep your driver’s license handy
  • Have your vehicle title or registration ready
  • If recently purchased, show a bill of sale
  • Submit the Notification of Disposal online
  • Remove plates before handing over the car

If all your documents are sorted, the entire pickup process takes less than 15 minutes. The team at Perth Scrap Car Removal handles the rest.

Bill of Sale for Scrap Car WA: What Does It Look Like?

There’s no official format. Just make sure it includes:

  • Your name and address
  • Buyer’s name (e.g., Perth Scrap Car Removal)
  • Date of sale
  • Vehicle details (VIN, make, model, rego)
  • Sale price (or mark it as “free for scrap” if applicable)
  • Both signatures

This can be handwritten or typed. Just keep a copy for your records.

How to Avoid Liability After Selling a Scrap Car

The number one mistake people make is forgetting to submit the Notification of Disposal. If someone misuses the vehicle or dumps it illegally, your name is still attached. To avoid fines or police involvement, make sure the form is submitted right after pickup. Perth Scrap Car Removal will remind you, but it’s ultimately your responsibility.

Can You Scrap a Car Without Paperwork?

It’s possible, but harder. If your car has no papers and you’ve lost the title or rego, contact the Department of Transport to retrieve ownership info. Some scrapyards may reject the vehicle without documents. Perth Scrap Car Removal helps you find a solution. However, we must confirm that you are the legal owner before we take the vehicle.

A Final Word from Perth Scrap Car Removal

Selling your junk car shouldn’t be stressful. At Perth Scrap Car Removal, we offer top-dollar payouts, free towing, and clear guidance on documents from start to finish. We’ve helped thousands of Perth locals scrap their cars the right way.

And yes, we know, it’s just a scrap car. But when paperwork is involved, doing it right protects your wallet and your name.

Need help with your documents? We’re just a call away. Let’s get that old car off your hands.