How to Sell a Static Caravan
Owning your own static caravan can be a great option if you like to visit the same location on a regular basis, and you enjoy the idea of owning a permanent place to stay at a fraction of the cost of a traditional property. A caravan can be a home from home that provides you with accommodation for many years.
But what happens when the time comes that you don’t want to own the caravan anymore? Maybe you don't want to continue paying the running costs, maybe you'd rather rent caravans so you can visit different locations or maybe your unit has seen better days and you need to dispose of it. Whatever the reasons for getting rid of your caravan, this article will help you navigate the sale or disposal of your temporary home. And if you're just looking for a change in scenery then you may want to consider moving your caravan instead.
How to get rid of a caravan
If the time has come for you and your caravan to part ways then you have a couple of options. If the unit is in relatively good condition and well maintained then you may be able to get a nice price by selling it on the open market, or if you are looking to upgrade or buy a new model then you may even be able to trade it in at a dealership.
If the unit is situated in a purpose-built caravan park then you may be able to sell it back to the park owners or advertise it to other holidaymakers that wish to own something in the area. If the caravan has seen better days and isn’t in good enough condition to sell on then you may simply have to scrap or donate it, but even in poor shape, it’s always worth trying to sell it on marketplaces like eBay where you may find a prospective buyer—one person's trash is another person's treasure!
Where to scrap a caravan
There are places that specialize in the removal and disposal of old caravans. A quick Google search will reveal several companies online so try to find one that is close to the location of your caravan. If it really is not worth selling or giving away then you can contact one of these companies who will come and remove it for you. Most will charge a fee for their services but will happily take the vehicle away and break it down or strip it for parts.
Another option if you are able to move the caravan yourself is to take it to an Authorised Treatment Facility—more commonly known as a scrapyard! These facilities will take, break, and crush your caravan in much the same way as you see cars disposed of. ATFs have been properly licensed by the Environmental Agency to prove that they meet safety and quality standards. They will provide you with the correct paperwork and a receipt as proof of the disposal of your caravan.
Who buys old caravans
It is surprising what a market you may be able to find for your dilapidated old caravan. If you can’t get a prime buyer or anywhere willing to take it in trade then a bit of local advertising can find people willing to take it off your hands at a bargain price. Farmers and landowners that may simply use it for storage, rag and bone men or scrapyard owners that may strip it and sell the parts, scrap metal merchants that will pay for the value of the metal. There are many people that will be willing to purchase your used caravan from you for the right price.
What is the market value of my caravan?
There are lots of websites that will provide you with an online valuation of your caravan, whether it is a touring, static, or motorhome, based on the make, age, and manufacturer of the unit. Sites like National Caravan Buyer or dealership sites will give you an estimate of your caravan's worth. It is always worth running the information through several of these sites to find an average value and determine a fair base price for your particular caravan.
Can I donate a caravan to charity?
If you can’t or don’t want to sell your caravan and you don’t relish the idea of paying to have it hauled away then you could always consider donating it to charity. The organisation Give a Car takes vehicle donations including caravans and motorhomes. They will provide you with a receipt that you can use for tax purposes and you get to feel good knowing that your caravan has gone to a good cause.