I want to open a junkyard business?

Question

I have decided that I would like to open a junkyard business, but i have a few questions.

First, what steps do I need to take? Like do I need to get any permits or anything, or can I just get a huge lot, throw a fence around it and fill it with wrecks?

Also, how profitable would this busness be? im thinking of letting the cars sit for a while and let the parts get sold off of them and then crush the car and sell it for scrap

Answer 1

You would need to check with your local government to find out about licencing and restrictions.

they are different in many areas, also many area have restriction on where you can have certain business's.

I would imagine that you would also want a tow truck, but could make do with a tow dolly.

By offering to pick up unwanted vehicles for free you could end up with more than you could handle.

I live in a small town and we have 3 business's that do this.

Answer 2

To save your nerves and your money:

* go around your yard, 1 mile radius and meet and talk with all neighbors; introduce yourself, asking them for support your business.

* then go & get a permit & proper license with the city/county

* once the permit & license in hand; secure the yard with good fence + dogs on leash + video camera (making sure others see that you have camera installed, as deterrence)

* while the yard is filling with the wrecks, use a map of the yard and plan out well: which area to keep what and have that on a wall near you + your helper. Direct the traffic to such area (color coded poles? color plastic flags?)

* many have made a decent living out of this business.

If you are good at: watching for thieves, dealing firmly and by cash only (credit card on larger transactions, set the minimum level) + knowing what part worths how much etc.

you will soon be the King of The Junks!

hahahahahaha

(may I have a discount for some spare parts for my Taurus, 90, 3.8L ?)