how to junk a car in massachusetts

[NoraFitz]

Junking a car in Massachusetts involves a specific process to legally transfer ownership and avoid future liability. The core steps are: preparing the vehicle's title, contacting licensed junkyards or scrap services for quotes, arranging for pickup or drop-off, and ensuring you receive a Dismantler's Certificate or Bill of Sale. This certificate is crucial as it serves as your legal proof that you are no longer the owner of the vehicle, releasing you from registration and excise tax obligations.

The most important document you need is the vehicle title. If the title is lost, you must obtain a duplicate from the Massachusetts RMV before proceeding. Once you have the title, contact several licensed junkyards or car donation programs. Prices can vary based on the current scrap metal market and the weight of your car. Many services offer free towing.

After accepting an offer, you will sign the title over to the junkyard. In return, they must provide you with a Dismantler's Certificate (Form RTA-1) or a notarized Bill of Sale. You should also remove the license plates; they must be returned to the RMV or canceled online to finalize the registration cancellation. Keep your copy of the certificate for your records.

Step	Key Action	Documentation Needed	Important Note
1. Preparation	Secure the vehicle's title.	Vehicle Title (or duplicate)	If title is lost, apply for a duplicate from the RMV first.
2. Get Quotes	Contact licensed junkyards/scrap yards.	Vehicle make, model, year, condition	Get multiple quotes; prices fluctuate with scrap metal markets.
3. Transfer	Sign the title over to the dismantler.	Signed Title	Do not accept payment without a formal transfer of ownership.
4. Receive Proof	Obtain a Dismantler's Certificate.	Dismantler's Certificate (RTA-1)	This is your legal proof of sale; keep it permanently.
5. Finalize	Remove and return license plates.	License Plates	Plates must be returned to the RMV to avoid future fees.

[VonMia]

Basically, you gotta get that title. If you lost it, go to the RMV website and get a duplicate first. Then, just Google "junkyards near me" and call a couple. They’ll ask what kind of car it is and if it runs. They usually offer free towing. When they come, you sign the title over, they give you cash and a pink slip called a Dismantler's Certificate. Keep that paper. Don’t forget to take your plates off and return them to the RMV. It’s pretty straightforward.

[Paisley]

My main concern was making sure I wasn't still responsible for the car after it was gone. The key is getting the right paperwork from the junkyard. After they towed my old sedan away, they gave me a Dismantler's Certificate. I scanned it and saved it with my important files. I also went online to the RMV site right after to cancel the registration and return the plates virtually. That certificate is your final receipt—it’s what proves you no longer own that vehicle for tax purposes.