Where to sell my car in Perth

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Where to sell my car in Perth
A car owner and a car buyer sitting in the front seats of a second-hand car, looking over its features.
Sell Salvaged Vehicle
By
Josh Denys
Josh Denys
Founder
November 4, 2024
6
minute read

Discover the best way to sell your car quickly and easily

When it comes to finding the right place to sell your car, Perth has a range of reliable options, from private buyers to dealerships. Whether your car is running smoothly or ready for scrap, this guide will help you find the best place to sell it. We break down your options—what’s fast, what pays well, and what’s the easiest—so car owners like you can make the right choice without wasting time. 

Here’s what you’ll learn:

  • The top places to sell your car in Perth
  • What to consider when deciding where to sell your car
  • How to compare your options

If you’d prefer an easy solution, check out our cash-for-cars Perth service, and we’ll take care of everything for you.

Exploring the best options for selling your car

Each option for selling your car has its pros and cons. Some might fetch you more money, while others focus on convenience. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect from five popular options:

If you want to dive deeper into the entire process of selling your car, check out this guide on how to sell your car in Perth.

Private sale

A private sale offers the best chance to get the highest price, but it comes with effort. You’ll need to take good photos, provide all the vehicle details, and manage inquiries. It’s ideal if you have the time and patience to wait for the right buyer.

Be prepared to negotiate with potential buyers and stay alert for lowball offers. You’ll also handle the transfer paperwork yourself, which can be time-consuming. If you’re after maximum profit, this option is worth considering.

Dealership trade-in

Trading your car in at a dealership is a fast, easy way to sell—especially if you’re buying a new vehicle. You hand over your car and keys, and they take care of the paperwork and payment. The entire process can often be completed on the same day.

The downside is that trade-in offers are usually lower than what you’d get through a private sale. Still, it’s a great option if convenience is your priority and you’re looking to avoid the hassle of listing and negotiations.

Salvage or scrap services

A car buying service, like a salvager, is the go-to choice for old, damaged, or non-running cars. They’ll typically offer free valuation, same-day pick-up and immediate payment, so you won’t have to worry about towing or repairs. They’ll also let you sell your car online with a fully digital process, so it’s the quickest way to get rid of a car that’s past its prime.

Salvagers buy cars of all types — while the payout might not be as high as with other options, it’s a reliable choice if your vehicle has little resale value. Salvage car buyers also handle all the paperwork, making the process fast and stress-free.

Online car marketplaces

Platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Carsales allow you to reach a wide audience, which can help your car sell quickly. To keep interest high, you’ll need to write an eye-catching listing and respond promptly to inquiries.

This option requires time and effort, and you may have to deal with no-shows or time-wasters. However, if you’re selling a car in good condition and are willing to put in the work, you could secure a decent offer.

Auctions

Auctions are a fast way to sell your car, especially if it’s unique or rare. The auction house handles listings, promotions, and paperwork, saving you time and effort. This option is good if you need a quick sale without dealing directly with buyers.

The main drawback is the unpredictability of the final price—it all depends on the bidders. Auctions also charge fees, so be sure to factor that into your expectations. Still, if speed and convenience are your priorities, this option can be a solid choice.

Comparing your options: where in Perth should you sell your car?

Factor Private Sale Dealership Trade-in Salvage Services Online Marketplaces Auctions
Price Potential High Low Fair price for condition Varies Unpredictable
Time Required Long Same-day Same-day Varies Quick
Effort Needed High Low Very low High Low
Payment Security Risk of scams Reliable Instant and secure Risk of scams Secure
Paperwork Handling Seller’s responsibility Managed by dealer Managed by dealer Seller’s responsibility Managed by auction

Making the right choice for your car sale

Now that you’ve seen the pros, cons, and effort involved in each option, the next step is to match the process to your needs. Are you looking for the best price, or is getting it done quickly more important? Do you want minimal hassle, or are you willing to take on some work for a better offer?

The key is balancing your priorities—whether it’s speed, convenience, or value. Each option works best for different situations, so think about what matters most to you and choose the path that makes the most sense.

The case for why we’re the best place to sell your car in Perth

We understand that selling your car can feel overwhelming, especially if it's old, damaged, or no longer running. At Salvage 1800, our services are designed to give you exactly what you need—quick, fair, and hassle-free.

  • No hidden fees: Enjoy free, same-day pick-up and a free car valuation with no surprise charges or delays.
  • Same-day payment you can trust: We use secure Osko transfers, so you get paid within 30 seconds of our car removal.
  • We take care of everything: From towing to paperwork, we handle the admin, so you don’t have to lift a finger.
  • Tailored to Perth drivers: Whether it’s an unregistered vehicle or an old ute, we know the market and will offer a competitive price that reflects your car’s value.

If you’re keen to sell your car today, learn more about our Perth cash-for-cars service and let us handle the rest.

FAQs about where to sell your car in Perth

Who pays the most to sell my car?

Private buyers usually offer the highest prices, especially for well-maintained cars. However, finding the right buyer takes time and effort. Trade-ins and salvage services may pay less but provide quicker, more convenient sales.

What is the best way to sell a car privately?

The best private sale starts with a clear, attractive listing with quality photos and a breakdown of the used car details. Research market prices, be responsive to inquiries, and meet buyers in safe, public places to ensure a smooth process.

What is the best platform to sell cars?

Carsales is one of the most popular platforms in Australia for selling used cars, offering broad exposure. Facebook Marketplace is also a good option for local buyers, but extra caution is required to avoid scams.

Can I sell a car without registration in WA?

Yes, you can legally sell unregistered vehicles in Perth. You’ll need a bill of sale and may need to remove the plates before the sale. Salvage services often buy unregistered cars without hassle.

How do I transfer ownership when I sell my car privately?

Both you and the buyer need to complete and sign the transfer of ownership form. The buyer submits the form to the Department of Transport within 14 days to finalise the transfer.

Should I repair my car before selling it?

If the repairs are inexpensive and increase the car’s appeal, they could boost your sale price. For damaged or older cars, though, it’s often not worth the cost. Salvage services are a great option if repairs feel like too much trouble.

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Get in touch for friendly advice

Whether you want to buy or sell salvage vehicles, we are here to help. Get in touch and we will get back to you soon with the information you need.

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