Selling a car for cash should be quick and simple, and it usually is, as long as the paperwork is in order. Missing documents, a forgotten lien or plates left on the car can turn a 20-minute pickup into a headache that follows you for months. This checklist walks you through everything you need before, during and after a cash for cars Calgary sale, so the vehicle leaves your life cleanly. Rules can change, so confirm specifics with an Alberta registry agent if anything is unclear.
Before the Sale
1. Find your registration
Your vehicle registration certificate shows that the vehicle is registered in your name and lists the VIN. It is usually in the glove box or with your home files. If you cannot find it, a registry agent can help you obtain a replacement or confirm your ownership.
2. Check the name matches
The person selling should be the registered owner. If the car is in a spouse's, parent's or company's name, that person or someone with proper authority needs to sign.
3. Check for liens
If the car was ever financed, make sure the loan is paid and the lien is discharged. If it is not, contact your lender before selling.
4. Note the VIN
Write down the VIN from the dash or driver's door jamb and make sure it matches your registration. Buyers use it to identify the vehicle.
5. Bring your ID
Have valid photo ID ready for pickup.
At Pickup
6. Complete a bill of sale
A bill of sale is your record that the vehicle changed hands. It should include:
- Seller's and buyer's names and contact details
- Vehicle year, make, model and VIN
- Sale date and price
- Signatures of both parties
Keep a copy, or take a clear photo, for your records.
7. Remove your licence plates
In Alberta, licence plates stay with the registered owner rather than the vehicle. Take them off before the car leaves. You can often use them on your next vehicle or return them to a registry agent.
8. Hand over the keys and any spares
Include fobs and valet keys. Remove house and mailbox keys from the ring first.
9. Get paid before the car leaves
Confirm payment is complete. Scrap My Car Calgary pays at pickup, with free towing across Calgary and Alberta.
After the Sale
10. Cancel or transfer your insurance
Call your insurer once the car is gone. You may be entitled to a refund of unused premium.
11. Deal with registration as advised
Ask your registry agent whether you need to take any further steps, and whether a refund on remaining registration applies.
12. Clear your digital footprint
Before pickup, unpair your phone, delete saved addresses and log out of any connected-car apps. Cancel any subscriptions tied to the vehicle.
Common Problems and Simple Fixes
- Lost registration: visit a registry agent for a replacement or ownership confirmation.
- Owner has passed away: the executor will usually need documents such as the death certificate and proof of authority.
- Old farm or yard vehicle with no papers: ask your buyer and registry agent what proof of ownership is acceptable.
- Car registered out of province: bring the original registration and photo ID.
Printable Summary
- Registration found and name confirmed
- Liens cleared
- VIN noted and matched
- Photo ID ready
- Bill of sale completed and copied
- Plates removed
- Payment confirmed
- Insurance cancelled
- Phone unpaired and personal data cleared
Paperwork Ready? Get Your Offer
With your documents sorted, the rest is easy. Contact Scrap My Car Calgary or call (403) 477-6858 for a free cash offer on any car or truck, running or not, with free towing and payment at pickup.
