Copart Sell My Car

Copart offers a fast, transparent way to sell your car—even if it’s damaged or non-running. Whether you’re dealing with an insurance claim, salvage title, or just want a hassle-free sale, Copart connects you with thousands of buyers nationwide through its online auction platform.

So, you’ve got a car you need to sell—maybe it’s been in an accident, won’t start, or you’re just ready to upgrade. You’ve probably heard of private sales, trade-ins, or even donating your vehicle. But have you considered using Copart to sell my car? It might not be the first option that comes to mind, but for many vehicle owners—especially those with damaged or salvage-titled cars—Copart offers a surprisingly efficient and profitable solution.

Unlike traditional dealerships or online marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, Copart operates as a massive online auction platform primarily for used, damaged, and salvage vehicles. Founded in 1982, Copart has grown into one of the largest auto auction companies in the world, with over 200 locations across the U.S., Canada, the UK, and other countries. While it’s widely known in the insurance and automotive repair industries, everyday consumers are increasingly turning to Copart when they need to sell a car quickly, securely, and without the headaches of private negotiations.

What makes Copart different? For starters, it’s built for volume and speed. Whether your car is totaled, flood-damaged, or just needs a new home, Copart connects you directly with a vast network of licensed buyers—including auto dealers, rebuilders, exporters, and even individual buyers in some cases. This means more eyes on your vehicle, more competitive bidding, and often, a better final sale price than you’d get through a private sale or trade-in. Plus, the entire process is handled online, so you don’t have to meet strangers, haggle over price, or worry about payment scams.

Key Takeaways

• Copart specializes in selling damaged, salvage, and used vehicles: It’s ideal for cars that may not sell easily on traditional platforms.
• The process is entirely online and user-friendly: You can list your vehicle, manage bids, and complete paperwork from home.
• Copart works with licensed dealers, rebuilders, and exporters: This broad buyer network often leads to competitive bidding and better sale prices.
• You don’t need a running car to sell: Non-starting, wrecked, or flood-damaged vehicles are accepted.
• Fees vary based on vehicle type and sale price: Understanding costs upfront helps you maximize your net return.
• Copart handles title transfer and documentation: This reduces your administrative burden and ensures legal compliance.
• Timing matters: Listing your car during peak auction days can increase visibility and final bid amounts.

What Is Copart and How Does It Work?

Copart is an online vehicle auction platform that specializes in selling used, damaged, and salvage vehicles. It was originally created to help insurance companies dispose of totaled cars after claims, but over the years, it has expanded to serve a wide range of sellers—including individuals, dealerships, and fleet operators. Today, Copart auctions hundreds of thousands of vehicles each year, making it a go-to resource for anyone looking to sell a car that might not fit the mold of a typical used car listing.

The core idea behind Copart is simple: instead of trying to sell your car one-on-one to a private buyer, you list it on an auction where hundreds or even thousands of potential buyers can bid on it. This creates a competitive environment that often drives up the final sale price. And because Copart handles the logistics—from vehicle pickup to title transfer—you don’t have to worry about the nitty-gritty details.

So, how does it actually work? First, you’ll need to create an account on Copart’s website. Once you’re registered, you can submit your vehicle for listing. You’ll provide basic details like the make, model, year, VIN, mileage, and condition. Copart will then assign your car to one of its physical locations (called “yards”) where it will be stored, photographed, and prepared for auction. After that, your vehicle goes live on the auction platform, where registered buyers can view photos, read the description, and place bids.

One of the biggest advantages of using Copart is that it accepts vehicles in almost any condition. Whether your car is drivable or not, has a clean title or a salvage title, or has been declared a total loss by an insurance company, Copart will likely take it. This makes it an excellent option for people who might otherwise struggle to sell their car through conventional channels.

Who Can Use Copart to Sell a Car?

You might be wondering: “Can I really sell my car on Copart?” The short answer is yes—almost anyone can. While Copart was originally designed for insurance companies and dealerships, it now allows individual sellers to list vehicles through its “Copart Direct” program. This means you don’t need to be a licensed dealer or have a commercial account to participate.

That said, there are a few requirements. First, you must legally own the vehicle and have a valid title. If your car has a lien (meaning you still owe money on it), you’ll need to pay off the loan before selling, or work with your lender to release the title. Second, your vehicle must be registered and insured at the time of listing, although it doesn’t need to be in working condition. Third, you’ll need to provide accurate information about the car’s condition, including any damage, mechanical issues, or missing parts.

It’s also worth noting that Copart operates differently in different countries. In the U.S., individual sellers can list vehicles directly. In other regions, such as parts of Europe or Asia, access may be more limited to licensed dealers. Always check Copart’s local website for specific rules in your area.

The Role of Buyers on Copart

One of the reasons Copart is so effective at getting good prices for vehicles is the diversity of its buyer base. Unlike a private sale where you might only reach a handful of local buyers, Copart attracts thousands of registered bidders from across the country—and even internationally.

These buyers fall into several categories:

– **Licensed Dealers**: These are car dealerships that buy vehicles to resell at their lots. They’re often looking for cars they can repair and flip for a profit.
– **Rebuilders and Body Shops**: Mechanics and collision repair shops buy damaged cars to fix and reuse parts or rebuild into drivable vehicles.
– **Exporters**: Some buyers specialize in shipping cars overseas, where regulations may be less strict and demand for certain models is higher.
– **Salvage Yards and Part Resellers**: These buyers are interested in vehicles for parts, especially rare or hard-to-find components.
– **Individual Buyers**: In some cases, private individuals can bid on vehicles, especially if they’re looking for a project car or a specific model.

This wide range of buyers means that even if your car isn’t in great shape, there’s likely someone out there who sees value in it. For example, a flood-damaged sedan might be worthless to a typical used car buyer, but a rebuilder in another state might be able to dry it out, replace the electronics, and sell it for a profit. That kind of demand drives up competition—and your sale price.

Step-by-Step: How to Sell Your Car on Copart

Selling your car on Copart might sound complicated, but the process is actually quite straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate it with confidence.

Step 1: Create a Copart Account

The first thing you’ll need to do is sign up for a Copart account. Go to copart.com and click on “Register” to create a new account. You’ll need to provide basic information like your name, address, phone number, and email. If you’re selling as an individual (not a business), choose the “Individual” account type.

Once your account is created, you’ll need to verify your identity. This usually involves uploading a copy of your government-issued ID and possibly a utility bill to confirm your address. Copart takes security seriously, so this step helps prevent fraud and ensures that only legitimate sellers can list vehicles.

Step 2: Prepare Your Vehicle Information

Next, gather all the details about your car. You’ll need:

– Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
– Make, model, and year
– Current mileage
– Title status (clean, salvage, rebuilt, etc.)
– Condition (running, non-running, damaged, etc.)
– Any known issues (engine problems, transmission failure, body damage, etc.)

Be as honest and detailed as possible. Copart buyers rely on accurate descriptions to make informed bids. If you hide damage or misrepresent the condition, you could face penalties or even have your account suspended.

Step 3: Submit Your Vehicle for Listing

Once you’ve gathered your information, log into your Copart account and click “Sell My Car” or “List a Vehicle.” You’ll be prompted to enter all the details about your car. Copart may also ask for photos, although they’ll typically take their own professional photos once the vehicle is delivered to their yard.

After submitting, Copart will review your listing. This usually takes 1–2 business days. If everything looks good, they’ll approve your vehicle and assign it to a nearby Copart location.

Step 4: Deliver Your Vehicle to a Copart Yard

Now it’s time to get your car to Copart. You have two options:

– **Drop it off yourself**: If your car is drivable, you can drive it to the assigned Copart yard. Just make sure you bring your title and ID.
– **Use Copart’s towing service**: If your car doesn’t run or you can’t drive it, Copart can arrange for a tow. This service is usually free for vehicles over a certain value, but there may be a fee for low-value or non-drivable cars.

Once your car arrives at the yard, Copart will inspect it, take photos, and prepare it for auction. This process typically takes 1–3 days.

Step 5: Monitor the Auction and Accept the Winning Bid

Your vehicle will go live on the auction platform, usually within a few days of arrival. Auctions typically last 5–7 days, and you can monitor bids in real time through your Copart account.

When the auction ends, the highest bidder wins. Copart will notify you of the winning bid and the sale price. If the bid meets or exceeds your reserve (if you set one), the sale is finalized. If not, you can choose to relist the vehicle or withdraw it.

Step 6: Complete the Sale and Receive Payment

After the sale, Copart handles the transfer of ownership. The buyer pays Copart directly, and Copart deducts any applicable fees (more on that below). Then, they send you the remaining proceeds—usually via check or electronic transfer within 5–10 business days.

You’ll also receive documentation confirming the sale, which you can use to notify your state’s DMV that the vehicle has been transferred.

What Types of Vehicles Can You Sell on Copart?

One of the biggest misconceptions about Copart is that it only accepts wrecked or totaled cars. While it’s true that Copart is a major player in the salvage market, it actually accepts a wide variety of vehicles—including many that are in good condition.

Here are some common types of vehicles people sell on Copart:

– **Totaled or Salvage Vehicles**: These are cars that have been declared a total loss by an insurance company due to accident, flood, fire, or other damage.
– **Non-Running Vehicles**: Cars that won’t start due to mechanical failure, electrical issues, or lack of maintenance.
– **Flood-Damaged Cars**: Vehicles that have been submerged in water, even if they’ve been dried out.
– **Repossessed Vehicles**: Cars that have been repossessed by a lender and need to be sold quickly.
– **Fleet Vehicles**: Company cars, rental cars, or government vehicles that are being retired.
– **Used Cars in Good Condition**: Yes, even drivable, low-mileage cars can be sold on Copart—especially if the owner wants a fast, hassle-free sale.

The key factor isn’t the condition of the car, but rather the type of buyer it will attract. For example, a clean, low-mileage sedan might not get as many bids as a rare classic car or a popular SUV with high demand in certain markets. But even a modest car can sell well if it’s priced right and listed at the right time.

Can You Sell a Car with a Salvage Title?

Absolutely. In fact, Copart is one of the best places to sell a car with a salvage title. Because many private buyers are hesitant to purchase salvage vehicles (due to concerns about safety, insurance, or resale value), it can be difficult to find a buyer through traditional channels. But on Copart, salvage cars are in high demand.

Rebuilders, mechanics, and exporters know how to assess the true value of a salvage vehicle and are often willing to pay more than a private buyer would. Plus, Copart provides detailed condition reports and photos, so buyers can make informed decisions.

Just remember: if your car has a salvage title, you’ll need to disclose that clearly in your listing. Copart may also require additional documentation, such as a salvage inspection certificate, depending on your state’s laws.

Understanding Copart Fees and Costs

Like any service, Copart charges fees for listing and selling your vehicle. These fees vary depending on the type of vehicle, its sale price, and whether you’re selling as an individual or a dealer. Understanding these costs upfront can help you avoid surprises and maximize your net return.

Common Copart Fees

Here are the main fees you might encounter:

– **Listing Fee**: This is a small fee (usually $25–$50) to list your vehicle on the auction platform. It’s typically charged regardless of whether the car sells.
– **Commission**: Copart takes a percentage of the final sale price. For individual sellers, this is usually around 5–10%, depending on the vehicle type and sale amount. Higher-value vehicles may have lower percentage fees.
– **Towing Fee**: If your car doesn’t run and you use Copart’s towing service, there may be a fee ranging from $50 to $200, depending on distance and vehicle size.
– **Storage Fee**: If your vehicle isn’t picked up by the buyer within a certain timeframe (usually 5–10 days), Copart may charge a daily storage fee of $10–$20.
– **Title Processing Fee**: Some states require Copart to process title transfers, which may incur a small administrative fee.

It’s important to note that these fees are deducted from your sale proceeds. So if your car sells for $5,000 and the total fees are $500, you’ll receive $4,500.

How to Minimize Fees

While you can’t avoid all fees, there are ways to reduce your costs:

– **Choose the right listing option**: Copart offers different listing tiers. A standard listing is usually sufficient for most sellers and comes with lower fees.
– **Avoid unnecessary towing**: If your car is drivable, drop it off yourself to save on towing fees.
– **Set a reasonable reserve price**: If you set a reserve too high, your car might not sell, and you’ll still pay the listing fee. A competitive reserve increases the chances of a sale.
– **Sell during peak times**: Vehicles listed during busy auction periods (like weekdays in spring and summer) tend to sell faster and for higher prices, reducing the risk of storage fees.

Tips for Getting the Best Price When You Sell My Car on Copart

Selling your car on Copart isn’t just about listing it and waiting for bids. With a little strategy, you can significantly increase your chances of getting a great price. Here are some proven tips:

Be Honest and Thorough in Your Description

Buyers on Copart rely heavily on your listing to make decisions. If you leave out important details—like a bad transmission or missing airbags—you risk losing bids or even facing disputes after the sale. Instead, be upfront about any issues. Use clear language and include specifics like “engine cranks but won’t start” or “front bumper damaged in minor fender bender.”

Honesty builds trust, and trusted sellers often get more bids.

Take Advantage of Copart’s Condition Reports

Copart provides standardized condition reports that assess your vehicle’s exterior, interior, mechanical condition, and more. These reports are based on a 1–5 scale and help buyers understand what they’re bidding on.

While you can’t change the report, you can ensure your car is presented in the best possible light. Clean the interior, remove personal items, and make sure the exterior is free of debris. A clean car looks more valuable—even if it’s damaged.

Time Your Listing Strategically

Auctions on Copart tend to be busiest on weekdays, especially Tuesdays through Thursdays. Listing your car during these days can increase visibility and bidding activity. Avoid listing right before major holidays, when buyer activity drops.

Also, consider the season. Convertibles and sports cars often sell better in spring and summer, while SUVs and trucks may fetch higher prices in fall and winter.

Set a Competitive Reserve Price

A reserve price is the minimum amount you’re willing to accept for your car. If bids don’t meet the reserve, the car doesn’t sell.

While it’s tempting to set a high reserve to protect your investment, an unrealistic price can scare off bidders. Research similar vehicles on Copart to see what they’re selling for, then set your reserve slightly below that to encourage bidding.

Respond Quickly to Buyer Questions

Even though Copart is an auction platform, some buyers may reach out with questions about your vehicle. Responding promptly and professionally can build confidence and lead to higher bids.

Common questions include:
– “Is the engine turning over?”
– “Are all the doors functional?”
– “Can you provide more photos of the damage?”

Answering these questions quickly shows you’re a serious seller.

Pros and Cons of Selling Your Car on Copart

Like any selling method, Copart has its advantages and drawbacks. Here’s a balanced look at what to expect.

Pros

– **Fast Sale**: Most vehicles sell within 7–10 days of listing.
– **Wide Buyer Network**: Access to thousands of licensed buyers nationwide.
– **No Need for a Running Car**: Accepts non-drivable and damaged vehicles.
– **Secure Transactions**: Payments are handled by Copart, reducing fraud risk.
– **Convenience**: Entire process is online; no need to meet buyers in person.
– **Competitive Bidding**: Multiple bidders often drive up the final price.

Cons

– **Fees Can Add Up**: Commission, towing, and storage fees may reduce your net return.
– **Less Control Over Price**: You can’t negotiate directly with buyers.
– **Limited to Certain Vehicle Types**: Very low-value or extremely rare cars may not attract bids.
– **Title Requirements**: You must have a clear title; liens must be resolved first.
– **Not Ideal for High-End Private Sales**: If your car is in excellent condition, a private sale might yield more money.

Real-Life Example: Selling a Flood-Damaged Car on Copart

Let’s say you live in Florida and your 2018 Honda Accord was flooded during a hurricane. The insurance company declared it a total loss and paid you the ACV (actual cash value), but you still have the car. You could try to sell it privately, but most buyers will be wary of flood damage.

Instead, you decide to use Copart to sell my car. You create an account, list the vehicle with full disclosure of the flood damage, and have it towed to a nearby Copart yard. Within three days, the car is photographed and listed for auction.

Because Copart has buyers who specialize in flood-damaged vehicles—especially in regions where hurricanes are common—your Accord attracts multiple bids. A rebuilder in Georgia wins the auction with a bid of $8,500. After fees, you receive $7,800—far more than you would have gotten from a private sale.

This example shows how Copart can turn a difficult situation into a profitable outcome.

Conclusion

Selling a car—especially one that’s damaged or non-running—can feel overwhelming. But platforms like Copart make the process faster, safer, and often more profitable than traditional methods. Whether you’re dealing with a totaled vehicle, a salvage title, or just want a hassle-free sale, Copart offers a reliable solution.

By understanding how the platform works, preparing your vehicle properly, and using smart listing strategies, you can maximize your return and walk away with peace of mind. So the next time you think, “I need to sell my car,” consider Copart. It might just be the best decision you make.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sell my car on Copart if it doesn’t run?

Yes, absolutely. Copart accepts non-running vehicles, including those with engine failure, electrical issues, or other mechanical problems. You can even use their free or low-cost towing service to get the car to a yard.

Do I need a clean title to sell on Copart?

You need a valid title, but it doesn’t have to be clean. Copart accepts salvage, rebuilt, and even flood-damaged titles. However, if there’s a lien on the vehicle, it must be paid off before the sale.

How much does it cost to sell a car on Copart?

Fees vary but typically include a listing fee ($25–$50), a commission (5–10% of sale price), and possible towing or storage fees. Total costs depend on the vehicle’s value and condition.

How long does it take to sell a car on Copart?

Most vehicles sell within 7–10 days of being listed. The entire process—from listing to payment—usually takes 2–3 weeks.

Can I sell my car on Copart if I’m not a dealer?

Yes. Individual sellers can use Copart Direct to list and sell vehicles. You just need to create an account, verify your identity, and provide a valid title.

What happens if my car doesn’t sell on Copart?

If your car doesn’t meet the reserve price, you can relist it for another auction or withdraw it. You’ll still pay the initial listing fee, but no commission if it doesn’t sell.