How to Scrap an Old Camper Trailer: The Ultimate Guide

There are many ways to scrap an old camper trailer, but not all of them are created equal.

Essentially, there may come a time in the life of every camper trailer when its usefulness has run its course, from tattered canvas, rusty frame, and bald tires. Many people see this as the end of the camper trailer’s life, but it doesn’t have to be!

Scrapping an old camper trailer can be a daunting task, no matter the reason. However, with just a few simple steps, you can have your camper trailer ready for recycling in no time.

This article will outline the entire process, from removing the content to disconnecting the electrical system, and some of the tips you can consider when disposing of your old camper trailer.

So, if you’re ready to say goodbye to your old camper trailer, keep reading!

Four steps to prepare your old camper trailer for scrapping

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When it comes time to toss an old camper trailer, there are a few things you need to do in order to prepare it and ensure the process goes smoothly.

Step 1: Remove all your personal belongings from the old camper trailer

The content includes stoves, refrigerator, sink, cabinets, or any furniture and appliances that may be inside. Anything that is left behind will likely be destroyed during the scrapping process.

So, you can either sell these parts online or scrap them for metal. 

Step 2: Disconnect all utility lines and plumbing systems from the old camper trailer.

This includes water pumps, sewer, and electrical systems.

Step 3: Disable the brakes on the trailer.

You can do this by removing the brake fluid line or disconnecting the brake cable. However, this is not necessarily important.

Step 4: Disconnect the battery and propane tanks

Next, you need to disconnect the battery and remove the propane tanks. If the camper has an awning, you will also need to detach that.

*Note: The above steps are totally optional; it only applies when you want to scrap the camper in pieces rather than in full. Be sure to wear protective gear when scrapping metal, as it can be dangerous if not done correctly.

Once you have completed the above steps, you can start scrapping your old camper.

How to scrap your old camper trailer the right way

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Here are a few tips on how to scrap an old camper trailer the right way.

1. Sell your old camper online.

That old unused camper sitting in the backyard might not necessarily have any value to you but can be something of value to someone else.

If you want to know how to get rid of an old camper trailer, why not sell it online? Facebook, Craigslist, and eBay are some of the websites where you can sell used items, small and large.

But you might ponder, who can buy an old camper trailer? Well, you will be surprised! Many vintage trailer enthusiasts and home fanatics are actively looking for old camper trailers.

Alternatively, you can even dismantle your old camper and then sell the parts that can fetch you some money.

Thanks to the internet, you can sell just about anything! What better way to make some cash for that old camper that has been rotting away in your backyard?

2. Donate the camper

If the camper is still in good condition, you can donate it to your local charity. The good thing is that most charities today provide pick-up services. Some even offer tax deductions and vacation vouchers.

Below are some of the charities where you can donate your old RV camper:

• VehiclesForVeterans.org
• WheelsforWishes.org
• Kars4Kids.org

When you donate your old camper, it’s easier for you to do away with it at no extra cost. More importantly, you will help someone in need, not to mention that you can receive tax benefits as well.

3. Sell the camper to salvage yards

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Salvage or scrape yards are an excellent option if you want to get rid of an old RV camper. In fact, you can make a little money. However, don’t expect much.

You can search for “junkyards near me” online or “RV salvage yard near me.” You will see a detailed list of some of the salvage yards in your locality where you can drop the camper.

If you have ever used the services of a salvage yard, then you might have stumbled across junk yards that also accept old RV campers.

Some automotive buyers can volunteer to pick up the old RV and then pay you in return. As mentioned earlier, don’t expect much.

4. Give it away

I’m sure you are familiar with the popular adage, “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” This saying is true to old RVs, especially those that aren’t in use. If you have an old RV that is still in good condition but no longer use it, why don’t you give it away?

While vintage RVs can only fetch a small amount of money, you should look for someone willing to take it off your hands.

People who enjoy outdoor activities, such as campers and hunters, can use the RV as a temporary home when out hunting. Alternatively, you can find someone who can repurpose the vintage RV into a tiny home.

Many people today prefer living in a tiny home to minimize their expenses.

You can make adverts on social media, tell your neighbors and friends. Anglers and hunters are possible targets since they can use the old camper when hunting as shelter.

On the other hand, anglers can use the old camper as customizable fishing shed.

If you don’t find any interested party, you can haul the old camper to the local dump provided they will accept it. This is how to get rid of an old camper trailer stress-free.

*Note: You may pay a hefty dumping fee.

If you have already exhausted all the options at your disposal, then dumping the old camper trailer makes sense.

This should be the last resort because you definitely have to pay hauling fees, not to mention the fact that it can end up in the yard, where it will end up unused in a landfill.

5. Find DIY enthusiasts

Find DIY enthusiasts either online or in your local area looking for an old camper. While this option will not fetch you a lot of money, it’s definitely worth it instead of allowing it to rot in your backyard.

In fact, this is an excellent option if you have a vintage camper that is taking too much space in your yard. You will be surprised that your old camper will actually be more worthy than you thought.

An old camper can be golden in another person’s eyes. So ask around in your neighborhood to find out who is interested in buying it.

6. Consult other RV owners for advice

It’s advisable to join an RV community as it offers immense benefits. For starters, you get an opportunity to interact with other RV owners and understand various things related to locations and campsites.

The other advantage is finding the right buyer when you decide to dispose of the motorhome or travel trailer. It’s therefore essential to find an RV club if you haven’t joined one yet.

After you join the RV community, try and advertise your old camper in the group to find out if anyone is interested in getting it off your hands for a few bucks. Better yet, find the right scrap dealer that can offer you a good deal.

7. Repurpose the old camper trailer

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Besides finding a way to dispose of the old camper trailer, you can also repurpose it into a fully functioning mobile camper. Due to their space and size, travel trailers make excellent greenhouses, food trucks, and even tool sheds.

Meanwhile, converting the old camper trailer into a food truck entirely depends on its overall condition and mileage; you have endless possibilities when transforming your camper trailer to suit your desired need.

8. Get rid of the old camper trailer.

Some states have strict regulations that make it extremely difficult to dispose of the old camper trailer directly in a landfill. However, in most states, some individuals assist in disposing of your old camper trailers properly without damaging the environment.

These disposal services will take your old camper regardless of its current condition and will dispose of it for only $500.

While this might seem too expensive, it’s a great option if you haven’t found a better alternative to dispose of the RV.

However, Many RV junk buyers are willing to buy your old camper; this is the most convenient way of disposing of an old RV.

But there’s a downside. You need to pay them to haul the RV to their junkyard. 

9. Use towing services to scrape the old camper trailer

When learning how to scrape an old camper trailer it is ideal to make use of the Google search, simply search for “RV towing services near me” online. Many professionals provide towing services, even if the RV is in severe condition.

You will definitely find reliable towing services in your locality, from abandoned RVs to trash-filled camper trailers.

For instance, you can try GoJunkFree, which charges towing services. But if your old RV is still running, then you will save some money in return.

In most cases, RV towing charges are about $1900 for large motorhomes and as low as $500 for small trailers.

You can also decide to dismantle it and then ship it to the RV junkyard. You will undoubtedly reap significant profits when you recycle the various scrap metals and RV parts.

Simply search online for “RV scrappers” or “Junk Metal Recycling.” You will find several metal junkyards that will explain to you the benefits of dismantling your RV for cash. 

What’s more, they will also explain to you the kinds of metals that will fetch you more money, as well as the safety precautions to follow as you dismantle the RV.

However, remember that neighborhood rules and landfill regulations about rusty old RVs now make it harder to dispose of unwanted rigs.

Fortunately, you can utilize any of the above options to save time and money.

Wrapping Up

Ultimately, scrapping an old camper trailer can be a daunting task, but it’s definitely worth the effort in the end. By following the steps mentioned in this article, you can make the process a lot easier and less stressful.

Just be sure to exercise some patience, take your time, and you will be able to dismantle and scrap your old camper trailer like a pro and make some extra money in the process.

While you may think your old RV is worthless, you are mistaken. Many DIYers are looking to lay their hands on that old camper trailer and convert it to practical use.

Think of RV house fans and vintage trailer enthusiasts. 

Your old rusty RV is definitely a prize for DIYers, after all. And thanks to the internet, there is always a market for almost anything online.

Simply head to the Google search box and type “Vintage RV enthusiasts” and “Tiny homes” experts. Make sure to have all the necessary paperwork ready, and take your time when scrapping it.

Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to getting rid of that old camper trailer in no time!