Remove All Personal Belongings
It sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people forget this step. Check every nook and cranny of the car—glove box, centre console, under the seats, boot, side compartments—for personal items. This includes:
Sunglasses
Phone chargers
Garage remotes
Insurance papers
Tools
Loose change
Once your car is towed away, there’s usually no way to get these things back. So take a few extra minutes to double-check before removal.
Take Off the Number Plates
In WA, you’ll need to remove your number plates before the vehicle is taken away. These plates can be returned to the Department of Transport or transferred to another vehicle if you plan to reuse them. Returning your plates also helps you cancel the registration and avoid any future issues, especially if the car is being scrapped or wrecked.
Cancel the Registration and Insurance
Once your car is ready for removal, it’s a good idea to:
Cancel the registration through the WA Department of Transport.
Cancel your insurance policy (or transfer it to your new vehicle).
If your car is a statutory write-off or no longer roadworthy, there’s no point in keeping it registered or insured. Some insurers may even offer a refund on unused premiums, so it’s worth checking with them.
Have the Necessary Paperwork Ready
Most car removal services in Perth are pretty straightforward when it comes to paperwork, but to ensure a smooth pickup, keep these handy:
A copy of your driver’s licence or photo ID
Proof of ownership, like the registration papers or sales receipt
Any documents the removal company might ask you to sign
Some buyers will provide a simple agreement form to sign before removal. Having everything ready helps speed up the process and avoids any back-and-forth delays.
Clear Access for the Tow Truck
Make sure the tow truck can easily reach your vehicle. If the car is stuck in a tight spot, behind a gate, or inside a garage, move anything that might be blocking access. If it's not drivable, just let the removal team know ahead of time—they usually come prepared with all the right equipment. Also, make sure pets and kids are kept safely out of the way during the removal process.
Check for Valuable Parts (Optional)
If you’ve got mechanical knowledge or access to a local mechanic, you might want to remove valuable aftermarket parts before removal—as long as the buyer agrees. Some parts that could be worth salvaging include:
Custom rims
Sound systems
GPS devices
Battery (if new)
Tyres in good condition
Keep in mind though: if you’ve received a quote based on the car being complete, removing parts might lower your final payout. Always be upfront with the buyer about what stays and what goes.
Take Photos for Records (Just in Case)
This one’s a bit optional, but it can be helpful—especially if the car is involved in an insurance claim, a legal matter, or you just want a record of what condition it was in. Snap a few clear photos of:
The overall car (front, back, sides)
The odometer reading
Any visible damage
The number plates before removal
Once it's gone, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’ve documented everything.
Choose a Trusted Car Removal Service in Perth
Lastly, make sure you’re dealing with a licensed and reliable car removal company in Perth. Look for companies that:
Offer free towing
Pay instant cash on the spot
Handle all the paperwork
Operate legally and ethically
You don’t want to deal with dodgy operators or hidden fees. Reputable cash for cars Perth companies will be upfront about their offers and provide a smooth, stress-free experience.
Final Thoughts
Having your accident-damaged car removed in Perth doesn’t have to be a hassle. With a little bit of prep—like clearing out your stuff, organising paperwork, and choosing a reliable removal service—you’ll be saying goodbye to your old vehicle in no time. Whether it’s slightly damaged or completely written off, there’s value in your unwanted car. So take these simple steps before removal, and enjoy the peace of mind (and cash) that comes with a clutter-free driveway.