By: Henry Jackson

Owning an RV in New York often means adventure, freedom, and memorable road trips—but eventually, every rig may reach the end of its usable life. Maybe yours has been sitting in the backyard in Rochester after engine failure, or you’ve left it idle near the Catskills because repair costs outweigh its resale value. Whatever the case, when repairs exceed what the vehicle is worth or major components no longer function, that once-reliable vehicle could be considered a junk RV. Whether it’s rusted, won’t start, or has sustained storm damage, one option is to sell your junk RV in New York and potentially recover some value from it.

From Buffalo to Long Island, and from the active streets of Albany to the quiet roads of Hornell, there are opportunities statewide. Here’s how to offload that unwanted RV and explore ways to be compensated for it.

1. Sell It to a Private Buyer

Some owners attempt to find a buyer through local classifieds, Facebook Marketplace, or RV-focused forums. If your rig still has structural integrity or functional appliances, you may connect with a hobbyist or DIY enthusiast willing to take on a renovation project.

That said, this route usually requires persistence. You’ll likely need to coordinate viewings, negotiate pricing, and possibly deal with missed appointments or changing buyer interest. Additionally, many private buyers prefer RVs that still run or are easy to relocate. The more remote your RV is from cities like Syracuse or New York City, the harder it might be to generate consistent interest.

2. Bring It to a Local Junkyard

Junkyards throughout New York may be willing to purchase old RVs, especially if there’s value in the scrap metal. In areas like Schroon Lake or Kingston, smaller yards sometimes offer same-day service, especially if you can deliver the RV yourself.

There are, however, potential drawbacks. Many junkyards do not offer free towing, which can reduce your net proceeds. If your RV is large or non-functional, transportation may cost more than what the yard is willing to pay. Also, payouts are often based primarily on scrap weight, not on any remaining usable parts inside the RV.

3. Part It Out Yourself

Some RV owners choose to dismantle and sell components individually. Working generators, solar panels, propane tanks, appliances, and tires may fetch better prices when sold separately through platforms like Craigslist, eBay, or niche RV communities.

That said, this option can be time-intensive and may require technical knowledge. If you’re not comfortable working with tools or lack space, dismantling an RV in your driveway in Binghamton could become overwhelming. Plus, once stripped, the remaining shell becomes more difficult to move and less appealing to buyers or scrapyards.

4. Sell to a Junk RV Dealer Who Accepts All Conditions

An increasingly popular choice is selling to a company that specializes in purchasing non-functional or damaged recreational vehicles. These dealers operate across New York and generally accept RVs in a wide range of conditions—including water damage, collision damage, or aging interiors. Many of them offer direct pickup and streamlined processes for owners.

Here’s why some RV owners consider this option:

• Towing services often included at no extra charge

• Payment is commonly issued at the time of pickup

• You don’t need to advertise or meet with buyers

• The dealer typically handles required paperwork, including DMV transfers

• Cleaning or prepping the RV in advance is usually not required

Whether your RV is located in Yonkers or stored on a quiet property near Ogdensburg, these buyers aim to simplify the process. Unlike private buyers or scrap yards, they typically won’t ask you to move a non-functional vehicle or engage in lengthy negotiations.

Thinking About Selling Your Junk RV?

If your RV has become a storage unit on wheels or suffered too much wear over the years, exploring resale options may offer a practical solution. Whether it’s been affected by weather, age, or mechanical breakdown, there are services available to help you responsibly dispose of it while potentially recovering some cash. Reach out to a licensed junk RV dealer or removal service to learn more about your options, request a quote, and decide what works best for your situation.

Disclaimer: Services, pricing, and outcomes described in this article may vary based on vehicle condition, location, and individual provider policies. HeyRV and similar companies may offer different terms depending on factors such as towing distance, RV age, or market demand. No guarantees are made regarding payment amounts, timing, or acceptance of all vehicles.

Published by Jeremy S.