The global automotive e-commerce sector is expanding rapidly, with an expected compound annual growth rate of around 17.5% by the end of the decade. Increasingly, consumers are turning to online platforms to shop for a new vehicle. That is probably why nearly 40% of dealers allow buyers to complete purchases through their website.
While finding that luxury sedan with seat warmers and a specialized infotainment system is fun, getting the car from inventory storage to the buyer’s doorstep can be a challenge.
That is why buyers must learn more about transport carriers and the best options to select, so that the new or used vehicle arriving meets what was purchased online. Here are some quick considerations to help consumers get started.
Understand Buying Budget: Financial Planning for a Big Auto Purchase
It is far too easy to fall in love with the latest model of an SUV or a vehicle brand that sparks nostalgic ideas of the top down on the open road.
Seeing the pristine modifications of a custom car and high-tech features would make anyone second-guess the price tag. However, not knowing the final purchase price will lead to financial troubles.
Buyers need to fully understand the “total cost of ownership,” including any purchase quote or estimate, taxes, registration fees, emissions tests, and domestic transportation costs. The average price of a new car in the US is over $48K, meaning a budget is required to make this purchase for most buyers.
Looking first at what you can realistically afford is always best. Speaking to a lender first and getting pre-approved for your loan, really helps narrow your options for cars, trucks, SUVs, and whether or not you want to add a sunroof or tow package.
This gives users an amount they are trying to save up to and creates leverage to negotiate for the down payment and deal terms.
Research Everything About the Vehicle Like a Professional
One terrific advantage for a buyer today is in the information age. Through a sound research plan, a buyer can avoid information overload, and have an easy flow of information based on only the specs of a vehicle on their list. The research might consist of:
- Listing out the needs for the vehicle first, before going shopping (how many seats, fuel economy, new or used, etc.)
- Using online resources like KBB, Edmunds, Consumer Reports, and Autotrader that compare options.
- Discovering the average resale of a used vehicle of that model, and also remember checking on safety recalls, and repair notices.
- Searching further than the local dealership market, including social media or online far away options, that will use the best auto transport services for delivery.
A wider “location search” area provides buyers with a greater variety of cars and features, but requires a bit more logistical work upfront. As long as the buyer is working with top-rated auto transport companies, that stress and information overload should be much more manageable.
Inspect, Negotiate, and Verify Everything
Once a buyer has selected a vehicle that is ready for shipment, the consumer should do their due diligence.
A pre-purchase inspection by a certified mechanic or scout by a trusted friend or third-party can go a long distance in avoiding mechanical and/or previous accident safety issues, especially in private sales.
The buyer should always run a car history report using the vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), on sites including Carfax.
This information can be given to the purchaser’s insurance company to explain maintenance issues, or variations in coverage. The insurance company can provide a precise estimate of how the policy will be affected and if it will go up or down.
Also, throughout the negotiation and post-purchase phase make sure to keep copies or original receipts of all of the title transfer documentation, all of the car registration information, communications with the insurance company, and any other vehicle documentation before and after shipping.
Many states have strict regulations regarding interstate transport, so best to plan accordingly.
Decoding Car Shipping: What Every Buyer Should Know
Finally, getting a vehicle home using the best car shipping company is the final stage of owning a new or used vehicle. That might include something as quick as city-to-city or a longer timeframe for pickup and delivery via cross-country car shipping.
Knowing what the different shipping methods available to a buyer are speeds up the overall process and ensures consumers get a fair deal. Some good tips to follow are:
- Have a flexible delivery timeframe outside of peak moving times such as the beginning and end of school, or during peak travel seasons.
- Make sure you have the contact information for the transport driver, so if delays happen due to traffic, construction, weather or another unforeseen instance, the buyer is updated.
- Deciding on an enclosed (fully covered) or open (uncovered) transport option.
- Be sure the fleet management company is FMCSA, (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) registered, has the right insurance, has licenses, and is bonded.
It’s also important to obtain a straight quote, should not be any hidden fees, or at the very least no, surprises when the car is delivered at the buyer’s house.
Look for past reviews and experience of the car shipping company, to verify that they can offer safe, accurate, and timely service that a buyer can trust.
The right company will guide a buyer through the steps of documentation, from obtaining a bill of sale/lading to confirming the vehicle title with the actual car in question.
Logistics Matter: Coordinating Pickup, Delivery & Storage Across States
Getting an online car purchase shipped requires some coordination with the seller to determine the shipping day and avoid scheduling conflicts. Some buyers use a trusted proxy to receive the vehicle or a local mechanic who can conduct a post-delivery inspection (usually for antique or collectible cars).
Before the car leaves inventory or if the buyer is working with a private seller, the preparation details must be communicated. The vehicle’s interior should be clean and free from any personal items. All alarms should be disabled, and if possible, fluids topped off, the battery checked, and tire pressure adjusted.
Most reliable car transport services will include real-time tracking or email notifications to help mitigate any delays or unexpected issues, especially during peak delivery months (May to August). No matter what, the buyer should always document everything, including photos of the car’s current condition.
Protecting the Investment: Insurance & Documentation
Even with all the preparation in the world, accidents can happen. That is why working with only the best car transport companies, utilizing a national network of trusted drivers and logistical experts, is highly recommended.
Contact the company to confirm any shipping insurance coverage. Be sure to determine if this is separate from the delivery quote and if it includes a deductible. Some policies only cover damage during transit, not theft or loss, so those details matter.
According to the FMCSA, all interstate auto transporters are required to carry some form of liability insurance. The trick is that different states have varying coverage levels.
That is why retaining proof of insurance coverage, vehicle inspection reports (both with pickup and delivery), and a full copy of the shipping contract is essential. It can help avoid expensive repairs or unforeseen damage.
Get a Smooth Purchase and Delivery Experience
Buying a new or used car online is a fantastic way to bring home a fun and exciting vehicle. It can mean finally getting to ride in a coupe that a buyer has dreamed of their whole life. Without the right pre- and post-steps for purchasing and shipping that car, that dream can become a nightmare.
Always work through steps like the ones listed above to get more peace of mind when shopping for a car and then shipping it to a different destination. From financial preparation to in-depth research and documentation, a little consideration plays a significant role in protecting the vehicle investment.