Uncollected abandoned vehicles

Find out how to move, sell or buy uncollected vehicles.

To report or arrange the removal of an abandoned or stolen vehicle, go to abandoned, towed and impounded vehicles.

Move or sell an uncollected vehicle

You may be able to sell or move a vehicle under the Uncollected Goods Act 2004, if you are:

• the property owner
• the person responsible for works or repairs on the vehicle.

You must follow the uncollected goods process under the Act. You can’t transfer the ownership of an uncollected vehicle into your name.

For information about the process, read the uncollected goods fact sheet on the Northern Territory Consumer Affairs website.

Value of vehicle

If the vehicle is independently valued over $7,000, you must get a court order before moving or selling it.

If the vehicle is valued under $7,000, you can apply to find the previous owner.

Buy an uncollected vehicle

When a vehicle is sold under the Uncollected Goods Act 2004, the seller must prove they have the legal right to dispose of it.

The seller must give you:

• a copy of the R33 receipt under the Uncollected Goods Act 2004
• proof of ownership or authority to sell

After you buy the vehicle, you must apply to register or transfer it into your name.

How to apply

To apply, follow the steps below:

Step 1. Fill in the R11 apply to register a vehicle in the NT or transfer an NT registered vehicle form PDF (741.8 KB).

Step 2. Submit the application and supporting documents at an MVR office.

Supporting documents:

• R33 receipt under the Uncollected Goods Act PDF (380.9 KB)
• evidence of your identity and residency
• roadworthy inspection, if applicable
  • check if your vehicle needs an inspection.

The MVR office may ask for additional documents to support your application.

Step 3. Pay the following:

• transfer of ownership fee
• stamp duty
  • you can estimate this using the NT’s vehicle stamp duty calculator
• number plate fee, if new plates are needed
• registration fee, if the vehicle is unregistered.

You can pay your fees by cash, EFTPOS, BasicsCard, Visa or Mastercard.