Scrapping a car for some cash can be a profitable way of getting rid of an old vehicle that can, in turn, be converted into a valuable asset by someone else. However, most car owners tend to leave their old cars to deteriorate in the backyard, which can be a big headache when owners need to dispose of them. Selling a junk car doesn't have to be a laborious process if you know what you are doing. This article arms you with some helpful tips to get you started.

Personal Items -- Over time, cars can accumulate a vast collection of personal items stuffed in several places such as under floor mats, in the glove compartment, and in the boot. Most of the items, such as credit cards, CDs, flash disks, baby carriers, and clothes, can be valuable to the owner. Also, some documents such as insurance cards or driving licences, which are always kept in the car, can have critical personal information that should not get into the wrong hands. Therefore, ensure that you remove all the personal belongings before driving your car to a junkyard or before the vehicle is towed.

Is the Car Registered in Your Name? -- Scrapping a car can be a piece of cake, but you might hit a snag if the vehicle is not registered in your name. Most scrap yards will reject a car if you cannot produce documentation establishing ownership. Such is the case, for example, if your father bought a vehicle for you, but it was registered under his name.  Although the requirements differ from one state to another, the general rule is that you have to change or transfer the vehicle registration to the new owner through the relevant state road transport authority.

Research -- Not all salvage yards will offer top dollar for your junk car. Therefore, you have to do a little digging to find the right buyer if you wish to get the most out of your vehicle. However, you have to be honest when giving details about the car, including repair history and the general condition of the automobile. There is no need to hide information that might help a salvage yard give you a fair market value for the car. Also, ask the scrap yard if they offer towing services, especially if your car can't be driven. After comparing different offers, remember that there is no fault in haggling, as it is the only sure way of landing a good deal from your preferred buyer.  

Contact car recyclers in your area for additional advice.