How to Get Started Buying Salvage Vehicles

CarProxy Editors

Published in Buying on CopartDecember 15th 20245 min read

Knowing how to get started buying salvage vehicles on Copart can be the toughest part for new buyers. Vehicle shopping should be fun, informative, and straightforward. There are hundreds of Copart vehicle transactions per day so the process should be clear. It’s not always that easy though.

Do you need a broker to purchase on Copart?

Before we go any further, you need to determine if you need a broker to purchase on Copart in your state. There are some state regulations that require an intermediary to purchase on Copart. This resource on Copart.com is a great place to check your requirements by state. If you're an individual in states like California and Connecticut, you need a broker, while states like Alaska and Arizona do not require a broker. If your state doesn’t require a broker, then register on Copart directly.Broker Required State List: https://www.copart.com/content/us/en/licensing/licensingoverviewIf you’re located in a broker required state, then register with CarProxy who will act as your transactional broker for Copart.

Creating A CarProxy Account

Sign Up: Register on CarProxy and create a free account. This will also add you to Copart.com where you’ll be doing your browsing and bidding.Deposit: Add your deposit based on your purchase price range. Your deposit will reflect 10% of your total buying power. $600 deposit = $6000 vehicle price max

No monthly or annual memberships. $0 to join.
$299 Flat Broker Fee
$50 Copart broker seat fee, $75 title processing fee.

Understand the Basics of Salvage Vehicles

Reference our article on Salvage vs Used VehiclesWhat are salvage vehicles? These are vehicles that insurance companies deem a total loss due to damage, theft, or other reasons. Salvage vehicles usually require repairs or are used for parts.Types of Titles: Familiarize yourself with terms like salvage title, clean title, rebuilt title, etc., as they vary by state.Licensing in your states: Check Copart's licensing requirements for your state on their website or consult your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Do Your Research & Stay Focused

Start with a short list of vehicles that you’re interested in or are familiar with. Do your pricing research and determine fair value for wrecked or salvaged versions of the vehicles. Salvage vehicles are unlikely to retain anywhere near the same value as a not salvage version so take into consideration the loss of overall value.

Assessing Repair Costs

Identify likely parts that’ll be needed and add up the costs of repairs. This is where things can get very expensive if you’re not familiar with what you’re buying and is what sets salvage vehicles apart from new or even used vehicle shopping.Think through common wreck points, front, side, or back damage. Interior damage from blown airbags, or bent body work that makes alignment of screws and panels impossible. Consider the amount of time it will take to repair the vehicle.Do your research before you do too much shopping to avoid getting excited and making a mistake. Vehicle repair costs can increase dramatically especially for models that have limited runs or makes that don’t create replacement parts.

Start Shopping for Salvage Vehicles

Use Copart’s search tools to filter by:

Location (to save on shipping)
Make/Model/Year
Damage type (e.g., collision, flood, theft recovery)
Title status

Pay attention to the Vehicle Condition Reports and Lot Details. However, always assume that vehicles are sold "as-is" and inspect them if possible.

Inspect the Vehicle at a Copart Yard

Pictures can tell you a lot but if you’re new to salvage vehicle shopping on Copart you should take the time to tour a yard and inspect vehicles in person.

In-Person: Schedule an in-person visit to inspect the vehicle at its storage location.
Remote Buyers: Use third-party inspection services if you can’t visit.

Read our full guide on Previewing Copart Vehicles

Understand the Fees

Be aware of all associated costs beyond the winning bid:

Copart fees (e.g., Buyer’s Fee, Internet Bid Fee, Storage Fees).
Transportation costs.
Taxes and title transfer fees.

Read through our resource on pricing out variable fees here.

Place Your Bid

If you’re new to vehicle auctions, start with some low bids and get comfortable with the process. Never bid on anything that you wouldn’t realistically be happy with. You never know how the auction will go. Don’t get discouraged with losing out on auctions. As you spend more time on the platform, you’ll get more comfortable with the prices that vehicles are going for and can adjust your bid to be more competitive.The last few minutes of an auction can be aggressive and prices can jump quickly. Set a maximum bid for yourself when you start to avoid bidding without thinking about it.Read through our full guide on Copart Auction Fees

Bidding Options

Pre-bidding: Place a bid before the live auction starts
Live Auction: Join the auction to bid in real-time.

Tips for Success

Start Small: Gain experience by bidding on lower-cost vehicles first.
Budget Wisely: Factor in all potential costs
Stay Informed: Follow market trends for salvage and rebuilt vehicles.
Join Forums/Groups: Connect with others who buy from Copart for advice and insights.