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Understanding The Best Online Auto Auctions

Written by Mike Rupers on . Posted in Auto Mover, Auto Shipper, Auto Transport Tips, Auto Trends, Car Shipping Advice, Car Shipping Cost Calculator, Door To Door Auto Transport, Online Car Buying, Vehicle Information History.

Online auto auctions have revolutionized the way people buy and sell cars. They offer a convenient and hassle-free way of purchasing a vehicle from the comfort of your home. This Direct Express Auto Transport guide will explore the best online auto auction websites for buying cars and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

First Research A Vehicle’s History

Online auto auctions are a convenient way of buying a car. They offer a wide selection of vehicles at competitive prices. However, it is essential to be cautious when purchasing a car from an online auction. Some vehicles may have hidden damages or issues that need to be apparent in the photos or descriptions provided on the website.

It is essential to research the vehicle’s history and condition before placing a bid to avoid any surprises. Most online auto auction websites provide detailed information about each vehicle, including its make, model, year, mileage, and any damages. Some websites even provide a condition report, which outlines the vehicle’s condition in detail.

Know Your Auto Auction Budget Before Bidding

It is also crucial to set a budget before bidding on a vehicle. While it can be tempting to get carried away in the excitement of bidding, it is vital to stay within your budget to avoid overspending. It is also essential to factor in additional costs, such as car shipping or inspection fees.

One of the advantages of buying a car from an online auction is the wide selection of vehicles available. Online auto auctions offer a vast inventory of vehicles from various makes and models. Some online auto auction websites specialize in selling specific types of vehicles, such as salvage cars or luxury cars.

Another advantage of buying a car from an online auction is the ability to participate in the auction from the comfort of your home. You can browse and bid on vehicles from your computer or mobile device without traveling to a physical auction site.

It is also worth noting that online auto auctions are not limited to domestic vehicles. Many online auto auction websites offer international shipping services, which means you can bid on and purchase cars from other countries.

What Are The Different Types of Auto Auctions?

When participating in an online car auction, it is essential to understand the different types of auto auctions. The most common types are open, closed, and sealed bid auctions. In an open auction, the bidding is open to the public, and the highest bidder wins. In a closed auction, only authorized dealers can participate in the bidding. Bidders submit their bids privately in a sealed bid auction, and the highest bidder wins.

In addition to researching the vehicle’s history and condition, exploring the online auto auction website is essential before participating. Some online auto auction websites have a better reputation than others, and it is vital to choose a reputable and trustworthy website.

Why Buy A Car From An Auction?

One of the most significant advantages of online auto auctions is the ability to save money. Cars sold at online auto auctions are often priced lower than the retail value of the exact vehicle. That is because many of the cars sold at online auto auctions have been repossessed, salvaged, or seized by the government. As a result, these cars are often sold at a lower price than they would be at a traditional car dealership.

Another advantage of online auto auctions is the ability to participate in auctions worldwide. With international shipping availability, buyers can bid on and purchase vehicles from other countries. That is particularly useful for buyers looking for a specific make or model that may be available in a different country.

Understand The Auction Bidding Formats

When participating in an online car auction, it is essential to understand the different auction formats. Some online auto auctions use the English auction format, which means that the auctioneer starts the bidding at a low price and gradually increases the price until there are no more bidders. Other auctions use the Dutch auction format, which means that the auctioneer starts the bidding at a high price and gradually decreases the price until a bidder accepts the price.

What Is Your Bidding Strategy?

It is also essential to understand the different bidding strategies. Some bidders prefer to bid early and aggressively, while others prefer to wait until the end of the auction and bid at the last minute. Choosing a bidding strategy that suits your budget and preferences is important.

Another advantage of online auto auctions is the transparency of the bidding process. Online auto auction websites provide detailed information about each vehicle, including its condition, history, and any damages. That allows buyers to make an informed decision before placing a bid.

Additionally, online auto auctions offer a level playing field for all buyers. Unlike traditional car dealerships, where prices can vary depending on negotiation skills or relationships with the dealer, online auto auctions offer a fair and transparent bidding process. All buyers have an equal opportunity to bid on a vehicle, and the highest bidder wins.

Do Auto Auctions Offer Financing?

Online auto auctions may also offer financing options, making buying a car more affordable. Some online auto auction websites have partnerships with financing companies that provide loans to qualified buyers. That can be a valuable option for buyers who need more cash to purchase a car outright.

When participating in an online car auction, it is essential to read the terms and conditions carefully. Each online auto auction website has its rules and regulations, and it is important to understand them before bidding. It is also essential to factor in additional costs, such as car shipping fees, inspection fees, or buyer’s premiums.

How Do You “Kick The Tires” At An Auction?

One of the challenges of buying a car from an online auction is the inability to inspect the vehicle physically. While online auto auction websites provide detailed information and photos of each vehicle, it can be challenging to assess the vehicle’s condition and quality without a physical inspection. However, some online auto auction websites offer virtual reviews or live video streams of the auction, which can help buyers better understand the vehicle’s condition.

The Difference Between A Clean or Salvage Title

It is also essential to understand the different types of vehicle titles. Some vehicles may have a salvage title, which means the vehicle has been damaged and repaired. Other cars may have a clean title, which means that the vehicle has not been in a severe accident or sustained significant damage. Understanding the vehicle’s title before placing a bid is essential, as salvage vehicles may have limited resale value.

Here Are Five Of The Best Online Auto Auctions

Copart

Copart is one of the leading online auto auction websites, with a vast inventory of vehicles from various makes and models. The website is user-friendly and it is easy to navigate. Copart has a bidding system where you can bid on a car of your choice and track your bidding history. The website also provides detailed information about each vehicle, including its condition, mileage, and damages.

Manheim

Manheim is another top online auto auction website selling used cars. It has a wide selection of vehicles and is easy to use. The website offers various tools and resources to help you make an informed decision, including vehicle history and condition reports.

IAA

IAA is a premier online auto auction website that provides a platform for buying and selling cars. It has a large inventory of vehicles from different makes and models, and it is easy to search for the car of your choice. IAA also provides detailed information about each vehicle, including its condition and any damages.

Auto Auction Mall

Auto Auction Mall is an online auto auction website offering buyers a unique service. It allows you to bid on a car from different auction houses, all in one place. The website also provides a vehicle history report and a condition report, which can help you make an informed decision.

Auction Export

Auction Export is an online auto auction website selling cars to international buyers. It has a vast inventory of vehicles and is easy to navigate. The website provides detailed information about each vehicle, including its condition and any damages. Auction Export also offers shipping services to international buyers.

Use A Licensed and Bonded Car Shipping Company

In addition to the advantages and challenges of online car auctions, it is also worth considering the benefits of working with a licensed and bonded car shipping company, such as Direct Express Auto Transport. Car transport companies can provide door-to-door shipping services, which can be a convenient option for buyers far from the auction site. Auto transport companies can also offer insurance coverage for the vehicle during transport, which can give buyers peace of mind.

When working with an auto transport company, choosing a company that is licensed and bonded and has a good reputation in the industry is vital. It is also essential to get a written quote from the auto transport company, which outlines the cost of the car shipping service and any additional fees or charges.

Our Take

Online auto auctions offer many advantages, including a wide selection of vehicles, competitive pricing, and a convenient and hassle-free buying process. However, it is crucial to understand the challenges of buying a car from an online auction, such as the inability to inspect the vehicle physically. The benefits of working with a licensed and bonded auto transport company are also worth considering. We hope this guide has been helpful and informative, and we wish you all the best in your car-buying journey.

The Original Car Shipping Quote Calculator

Direct Express Auto Transport originated the instant car shipping quote calculator in 2004. It is still the best, most sophisticated, reliable tool available anywhere online. We offer three options that we call tiers of car shipping estimates. The standard rate is the cheapest car shipping quote, but it may take longer. Use it if you are patient. The expedited car shipping rate is most recommended, and we have countless satisfied customers because the shipping process tends to go quicker. The rush rate is our highest level of car shipping service, and we have many customers who are glad they went with that method. If you are buying a car from an auto auction, shipping it with us is a smart move.

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The Longest-Lasting Cars In 2021

Written by Mike Rupers on . Posted in Auto Trends, Car Shipping Advice, Car Shipping Cost Calculator, Online Car Buying, Vehicle Information History, Vehicle Shipping Cost.

What cars last the longest? There are so many myriad ways to answer that question. Almost all vehicles are built to last 100,000 miles. Cars that last 200,000 miles are what separates the reliable from the unreliable. That has become the industry standard benchmark, 200,000 miles, to measure the durability of vehicles. That’s because so few ever make it to an almost unobtainable 300,000 miles, which becomes a pointless discussion. So it’s 200,000 miles where we at Direct Express Auto Transport draw the line, and why we are still shipping those vehicles so many years later.

It matters in any discussion of cars that last the longest to compare the same type of vehicles against one another. Because according to a 2021 iSeeCars study, it is not cars per se that last the longest but rather SUVs and Pickup Trucks that do. Now isn’t that surprising? Those vehicles are more extensive and heavier, and they are the ones that last the longest. It makes sense because SUVs and Pickup Trucks are built to take a beating. And that’s just what they do. Some reach 200,000 miles and beyond at a higher rate than the top 5 long-lasting cars.

SUVs Dominate The Longest-Lasting Cars

In 2021, the top eight longest-lasting vehicles reaching 200,000 miles were all SUVs. Let’s take a look at those winners and the respective percentages that last that long:

Longest-Lasting Cars, SUVs, and Trucks to Reach 200k Miles – iSeeCars Study
RankVehicle% of Cars Over 200k Miles
1Toyota Land Cruiser18.2%
2Toyota Sequoia14.2%
3Chevrolet Suburban6.6%
4GMC Yukon XL5.2%
5Toyota 4Runner4.6%
6Ford Expedition4.5%
7Chevrolet Tahoe4.4%
8Toyota Tundra4.0%
9Toyota Avalon3.9%
10Toyota Prius3.9%
11Toyota Highlander Hybrid3.8%
12GMC Yukon3.7%
13Honda Ridgeline3.7%
14Honda Odyssey3.2%
15Toyota Sienna3.2%
Average for All Vehicles1.2%

Most of the longest-lasting vehicles are big SUV’s that are manufactured on a pickup truck platform and share many of the same parts. That gives the more prominent SUV’s a distinct durability advantage over most sedans.

The only real downside to larger SUV’s is that they typically have poor gas mileage, and consumers are becoming more aware of their carbon footprint. You don’t need to be among the 97% of scientists who think climate change is real. Just look at the melting glaciers and crazy dangerous weather patterns of the past few years. Hurricanes are becoming more frequent and ferocious. Floods are destroying towns and farmlands. So while at first glance, these large SUV’s that are so long-lasting appear to be a prudent investment, we urge you to reconsider and look at these statistics as actually alarming.

Pickup Trucks That Last Longest

In 2021, the top seven longest-lasting light-duty pickup trucks reaching 200,000 miles didn’t fare as well as the big SUVs. However, the top three pickup trucks in this category are among the top ten for all makes and models, which is very impressive. Let’s take a look.

Longest-Lasting Light-Duty Pickup Trucks- iSeeCars Study
RankPickup Truck% of Cars Over 200k Miles
1Toyota Tundra4.0%
2Honda Ridgeline3.7%
3Toyota Tacoma2.8%
4Nissan Titan2.6%
5Ford F-1502.4%
6Chevrolet Silverado 15002.3%
Pickup Truck Average2.2%
7GMC Sierra 15002.0%
8Nissan Frontier1.8%
9Ram Pickup 15001.4%
10Chevrolet Colorado0.9%
11GMC Canyon0.8%

The Japanese pickup trucks Toyota Tundra, Honda Ridgeline, and Toyota Tacoma run away with the awards in this section. The American makes Chevrolet, Ford, and GMC fare nearly as well. Remember, there is very little difference between 2% and 3%. Put another way, are you much more impressed when saying 3/100 Honda Ridgeline pickup trucks last 200,000 miles, whereas only 2/100 Chevrolet Silverado 1500s do? You’re not. Will more people rush to buy a Ridgeline based solely on that?

What Make Of Car Lasts The Longest?

Something stands out regarding which car makes last the longest. Two manufacturers in particular shine. You guessed it, Honda and Toyota are both Japanese car makers. Look for one of them when searching for the longest-lasting cars. From a carbon emissions standpoint, it isn’t reassuring to see that big SUVs and Pickup Trucks last longer than the more fuel-efficient passenger vehicles. The average for all makes and models reaching 200,000 miles is 1.2%, or less than 1/100. A tip of the cap to the manufacturers of the well-built vehicles that so clearly beat 1/100. Now we only ask that they do it with greater fuel efficiency.

Longest-Lasting Car Manufacturers

iSeeCars determined the brands of vehicles that are most likely to reach the 200,000 mile threshold.

Longest-Lasting Car Brands to Reach 200,000 Miles- iSeeCars Study
RankModel% of Cars Over 200k Miles
1Toyota2.3%
2Honda1.9%
3GMC1.8%
4Chevrolet1.6%
5Ford1.5%
Average for All Brands1.2%

Our Conclusion

It’s essential to remember that the “longest lasting” cars will vary based on many factors, including the make and model, driving habits, maintenance, and even geographical location. In general, however, vehicles from brands such as Toyota, Honda, and Subaru have a reputation for reliability and longevity.

If you’re considering purchasing a new car and want to choose one that is likely to last a long time, research the specific make and model you’re interested in. That might include reading reviews from reputable automotive websites, checking the car’s safety ratings, and consulting with a mechanic or trusted friend who has experience with that vehicle. Additionally, you can look at reliability ratings from organizations such as J.D. Power and Consumer Reports to understand how different cars perform over time.

Another factor to consider when choosing a long-lasting car is the type of vehicle. For example, trucks and SUVs have a longer lifespan than sedans or sports cars due to their heavier construction and ability to handle more wear and tear. Additionally, cars made for commercial use, such as delivery trucks or taxis, are often built to be more durable and long-lasting due to the demands of their intended use.

Regular maintenance is also a crucial factor in the lifespan of a car. Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and fixing any problems as soon as they arise can help extend the life of your vehicle and prevent more severe and costly issues from developing down the line.

It’s also worth mentioning that some cars are built better than others, with higher-quality materials and better engineering. While these cars may cost more upfront, they can often save you money in the long run by lasting longer and requiring fewer repairs.

In conclusion, choosing the longest-lasting car will depend on factors such as make and model, driving habits, maintenance, and geographical location. Doing your research, following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, and opting for higher-quality vehicles can help you find a car that will last for many years.

photo of Girl Happy To buy her used car online

Top 20 Best Used Car Websites

Written by Mike Rupers on . Posted in Auto Mover, Auto Transport Reviews, Auto Trends, car shipment, Car Shipping Advice, Car Shipping Service, Car Transport Calculator, Online Car Buying, Vehicle Information History.

When buying a used car, the internet has made the process easier and more convenient than ever. With so many websites claiming to offer the best deals on used cars, it can be overwhelming to determine which ones are worth your time and trust. Direct Express Auto Transport has shipped over 300,000 used cars over the past twenty years. This article has compiled our favorite 20 online used car buying websites.

1. CarGurus

CarGurus is a popular website that helps you find great deals on used cars. This website provides you with a comprehensive list of used cars for sale near you, along with detailed information about each vehicle, including photos, specs, and customer reviews. Additionally, CarGurus uses a proprietary algorithm to calculate the fair market price of each vehicle based on recent sales, so you can be sure you’re getting a fair deal.

2. Autotrader

Autotrader is another popular website for finding used cars. This site allows you to search for cars based on a wide range of criteria, including make, model, year, and price. You can also refine your search based on specific features, such as the car’s color, transmission type, and fuel efficiency. Autotrader also provides detailed information about each vehicle, as well as customer reviews, to help you make an informed decision.

3. Cars.com

Cars.com is a comprehensive resource for finding used cars. This site offers a large selection of used cars for sale, along with detailed information about each vehicle, including photos, specs, and customer reviews. Additionally, Cars.com provides you with a wealth of information and resources to help you make the best decision, including articles and guides on buying used cars and financing options.

4. Craigslist

Craigslist is a well-known online marketplace where you can buy and sell a wide range of goods, including used cars. While this site may not have the same level of polish as some of the other websites on this list, it’s still a great place to find a used car. Just be sure to exercise caution when using Craigslist, as there are some scams and fraudulent listings to be aware of.

5. TrueCar

TrueCar is a website that helps you find the best deal on a used car. This site provides you with a comprehensive list of used cars for sale, along with detailed information about each vehicle, including photos, specs, and customer reviews. Additionally, TrueCar provides you with a fair market price for each vehicle, so you can be sure you’re getting a good deal.

6. Edmunds

Edmunds is another great resource for finding used cars. This website offers a wide selection of used cars for sale, along with detailed information about each vehicle, including photos, specs, and customer reviews. Additionally, Edmunds provides you with valuable resources and tools to help you make an informed decision, including articles on financing and buying used cars, as well as a car loan calculator.

7. Kelly Blue Book (KBB)

Kelly Blue Book, or KBB, is a trusted source for used car information and pricing. This website provides you with a comprehensive list of used cars for sale, along with detailed information about each vehicle, including photos, specs, and customer reviews. Additionally, KBB provides you with a fair market price for each vehicle, as well as expert reviews and ratings, to help you make an informed decision.

8. NADAguides

NADAguides is another great resource for finding used cars. This website offers a wide selection of used cars for sale, along with detailed information about each vehicle, including photos, specs, and customer reviews. Additionally, NADAguides provides you with a wealth of information and resources to help you make an informed decision, including articles on financing and buying used cars, as well as a car loan calculator.

9. Carfax

Carfax is a website that provides you with a detailed history of any used car you’re considering purchasing. This site allows you to run a background check on a vehicle, giving you valuable information about its past, including accidents, service history, and ownership history. This information can help you make an informed decision about the condition and value of a used car.

10. Carsforsale.com

Carsforsale.com is a comprehensive resource for finding used cars. This website offers a large selection of used cars for sale, along with detailed information about each vehicle, including photos, specs, and customer reviews. Additionally, Carsforsale.com provides you with a wealth of information and resources to help you make an informed decision, including articles on financing and buying used cars, as well as a car loan calculator.

11. Carsdirect

Carsdirect is a website that makes it easy for you to find the perfect used car. This site offers a wide selection of used cars for sale, along with detailed information about each vehicle, including photos, specs, and customer reviews. Additionally, Carsdirect provides you with a car loan calculator, as well as articles and guides on financing and buying used cars, to help you make an informed decision.

12. CarSoup

CarSoup is a website that helps you find the best deals on used cars. This site offers a wide selection of used cars for sale, along with detailed information about each vehicle, including photos, specs, and customer reviews. Additionally, CarSoup provides you with a car loan calculator, as well as articles and guides on financing and buying used cars, to help you make an informed decision.

13. CarWow

CarWow is a website that makes it easy for you to buy a used car. This site offers a wide selection of used cars for sale, along with detailed information about each vehicle, including photos, specs, and customer reviews. Additionally, CarWoo provides you with a car loan calculator, as well as articles and guides on financing and buying used cars, to help you make an informed decision.

14. Carvana

Carvana is a website that offers a unique and convenient way to buy a used car. This site allows you to shop for used cars online, with a wide selection of vehicles available for purchase. Carvana also provides you with detailed information about each vehicle, including photos, specs, and customer reviews, to help you make an informed decision. Additionally, Carvana offers a 7-day return policy, so you can be sure you’re happy with your purchase.

15. Vroom

Vroom is a website that offers a convenient way to buy a used car. This site allows you to shop for used cars online, with a wide selection of vehicles available for purchase. Vroom also provides you with detailed information about each vehicle, including photos, specs, and customer reviews, to help you make an informed decision. Additionally, Vroom offers a 7-day return policy, so you can be sure you’re happy with your purchase.

16. LeaseTrader

LeaseTrader is a website that offers a unique way to buy a used car. This site allows you to take over the lease of a used car, rather than buying it outright. This can be a great option for those who want a new car every few years without having to go through the process of selling their current vehicle. LeaseTrader provides you with a comprehensive list of used cars available for lease transfer, along with detailed information about each vehicle, including photos, specs, and customer reviews.

17. Swapalease

Swapalease is another website that offers a unique way to buy a used car. This site allows you to take over the lease of a used car, rather than buying it outright. This can be a great option for those who want a new car every few years without having to go through the process of selling their current vehicle. Swapalease provides you with a comprehensive list of used cars available for lease transfer, along with detailed information about each vehicle, including photos, specs, and customer reviews.

18. Leasehackr

Leasehackr is a website that provides you with the tools and resources you need to find the best lease deals on used cars. This site offers a comprehensive list of used cars available for lease, along with detailed information about each vehicle, including photos, specs, and customer reviews. Additionally, Leasehackr provides you with articles and guides on leasing and buying used cars, as well as a lease calculator, to help you make an informed decision.

19. Automotive.com

Automotive.com is a comprehensive resource for buying a used car. This site offers a wide selection of used cars for sale, along with detailed information about each vehicle, including photos, specs, and customer reviews. Additionally, Automotive.com provides you with a wealth of information and resources to help you make an informed decision, including articles on financing and buying used cars, as well as a car loan calculator.

20. MotorTrend

MotorTrend is a website that provides you with comprehensive coverage of the automotive industry. This site offers a wide selection of used cars for sale, along with detailed information about each vehicle, including photos, specs, and customer reviews. Additionally, MotorTrend provides you with expert reviews and ratings, as well as articles and guides on financing and buying used cars, to help you make an informed decision.

Conclusion

There are many great used car websites out there that can help you find the perfect car for you, no matter what your needs and preferences may be. Whether you’re looking for a traditional online marketplace, a unique leasing option, or a comprehensive resource for buying a used car, there’s a website out there that will meet your needs. By doing your research and comparing your options, you’ll be able to find the right website to help you find your next used car.

In conclusion, these are the top 20 used car websites that you should consider when shopping for your next car. With their comprehensive selection of used cars, detailed vehicle information, and valuable resources and tools, these sites will help you find the right car for you and make the process as easy and stress-free as possible.

The Original Car Shipping Quote Calculator

Direct Express Auto Transport originated the instant car shipping quote calculator in 2004. It is still the best, most sophisticated, reliable tool available anywhere online. We offer three options that we call tiers of car shipping estimates. The standard rate is the cheapest car shipping quote, but it may take longer. Use it if you are patient. The expedited car shipping rate is most recommended, and we have countless satisfied customers because the shipping process tends to go quicker. The rush rate is our highest level of car shipping service, and we have many customers who are glad they went with that method.

Photo of pretty woman online buying a car with laptop

New Car Buying Experience During COVID-19

Written by Mike Rupers on . Posted in Auto Transport Tips, Online Car Buying.

After decades of doing things the same way, car buying is changing right before our eyes in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. People want to avoid dealerships out of an abundance of caution. But they still need to buy cars because their last one broke down, and want to take advantage of low-interest rates. Or simply because they find something they like. Some might even argue that this is the best time in ages to shop for something new. Fortunately, there are ways to do that safely.

That starts by buying a car online instead of in person. Car shopping online has been possible for years, but only recently has it become accessible – and not a moment too soon. In this article, we will show you tips for buying new cars online and getting them to your location without risking yourself.

Do Your Homework

There are many makes and models to choose from, new and used options to consider, and endless features and accessories to mull over. The dealership makes it easy to pick and choose since you have everything right in front of you. Car shopping online might seem to make things more complex, but it does the opposite, thanks to the abundant online resources. 

With a few clicks, you can find endless information reviewing, rating, comparing, and recommending various vehicles. Not only is this information more in-depth than you will get from many dealerships, but it’s also not accompanied by manipulative sales tactics. Online during the COVID-19 pandemic, you can fully explore the options that fit your criteria – price, size, efficiency, features etc. – and select something that checks all the boxes. Take your time. Car shopping online can feel overwhelming initially since you have so many options at your disposal – but that only means the perfect one is waiting for you to find it.

Take a Virtual Tour

When you buy a car online, you can’t take a test drive (at least not initially), but that doesn’t mean you have to buy something sight unseen. Many dealerships have started offering virtual tours where a salesperson walks you through the vehicle while video conferencing. That is an excellent opportunity to ask questions, investigate how things work, and get a feel for what you do and don’t like about a model – just like you would at the dealership. Don’t feel like shopping for new cars online obligates you to buy something you’re not entirely confident about buying.

Search for Deals

Car sales have declined significantly since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic for many different reasons. In response, automakers and dealerships have started offering desirable pricing and compelling incentive offers – like free maintenance or roadside assistance. 

You may be able to pay far less now than you would have paid for the exact vehicle just six months ago, but it can take some careful searching to find the best deals out there. See what’s available from your local dealerships, but remember that you’re not limited by geography since anything you decide to drive will be shipped to your location. Don’t be afraid to contact a dealership to explore in-depth. 

Don’t be discouraged from haggling, either. Dealerships hurting for sales want to work with interested buyers, and those dealerships are happy to negotiate over the phone, email, or messenger app.

Consider CPO – Certified Pre-Owned

Buying a used vehicle during the COVID-19 pandemic in a safe, distanced way can be a lot harder than shopping for one in person. With used cars, you have more diverse options to choose from, requiring careful consideration of each. More importantly, you’re focused on finding a reliable make/model that you can trust despite having miles already on the odometer. 

Many people take a used vehicle to an independent mechanic for a second opinion before buying, but that may be risky or impossible right now. One way to get the benefits of buying used – lower price, more variety, etc. – is to select a certified pre-owned option. These models undergo a thorough inspection to verify they’re in excellent working order. They also come backed with extended warranties in case hidden problems arise. 

There are always unknowns when buying something used, but there are the fewest possible unknowns with a CPO vehicle. Plus, dealerships are just as eager to move these cars and trucks as newer models, meaning there may be generous deals and offers available.

Arrange Car Shipping During COVID-19

Arranging car shipping is the hardest part about car shopping online. Dealerships have done an admirable job of adapting the auto buying experience to meet the public health requirements of the moment. However, the most challenging part of car shopping remotely – before, during, and after the pandemic – is getting a vehicle from point A to point B. That applies to whatever you buy and potentially to your trade-in as well. 

Some dealerships and online outlets during the COVID-19 pandemic include shipping as part of the sales experience. In other cases, however, buyers have to arrange to ship on their own – especially if you buy from a private seller. If you need help shipping a car or truck from any part of the country to your location (or vice versa), rely on Direct Express Auto Transport to make the arrangements easy. Auto-shipping shouldn’t stop you from trying to buy a car online.

Prepare for Contact-less Delivery

The riskiest part of this whole process is when you take delivery of your vehicle. There will be paperwork to sign, features to go over, and possibly terms still to negotiate. Every source for buying new cars online has its process for completing the sale and transferring ownership of the vehicle. Prepare to wear a mask throughout. Consider bringing your pen and some wipes on surfaces like the steering wheel. Most importantly, ask the seller exactly what the contact-less delivery process will involve so you know in advance how to safely prepare.

Be Choosy during the COVID-19 pandemic

You may be able to return a vehicle you don’t like depending on the sales agreement terms. Make sure to know what you’re entitled to before receiving the vehicle, and don’t hesitate to exercise those rights if you’re unhappy with your new car in any way. Despite everyone’s best efforts to make remote vehicle sales run smoothly, there are still some kinks to work out. Not to mention that you can’t decide whether you like a vehicle until you spend some time behind the wheel. Remember that some sales will be final and that going through the pickup/drop-off process again raises the risk of exposure. Keep in mind, also, that you shouldn’t drive anything you don’t love.

Direct Express Auto Transport – Keeping Vehicle Transport Safe

There’s no reason to avoid buying a vehicle during a pandemic. As long as you and the people you work with take risks seriously, limiting exposure is possible. And on a more positive note, many people discovered they prefer car shopping online compared to the dealership experience. 

They also discover the world of cars available online, from rare models to incredible deals. The internet connects you with sellers across the country, but you still need to get whatever you find and buy into your own driveway. That’s where Direct Express Auto Transport comes in. 

The Original Car Shipping Quote Calculator

Direct Express Auto Transport originated the instant car shipping quote calculator in 2004. It is still the best, most sophisticated, reliable tool available anywhere online. We offer three options that we call tiers of car shipping estimates. The standard rate is the cheapest car shipping quote, but it may take longer. Use it if you are patient. We recommend the expedited car shipping rate and have countless satisfied customers because the shipping process tends to go quicker. The rush rate is our highest level of car shipping service, and many customers are glad they went with that method.