All petrolheads have been there at some point. You find the car of your dreams only to discover that the dealership is in a different city. Once upon a time, that would have been prohibitive, but it’s nowadays much easier to buy cars over long distances without even going to look at them in person.
It’s the new norm
The pandemic has given the remote car buying industry a massive boost. As dealerships closed and people looked to decrease their social interactions, buying over the internet became the favoured, and in some cases only, option. That’s had a big ripple effect on how cars are sold remotely.
There are now websites and apps dedicated solely to remote buying. These offer virtual tours of the cars, photographs, and many even come with inspection checklists and certifications. The additional focus on online sales has weeded out less reliable dealers and ushered in new regulations to protect consumers. Cars sold remotely come at a fixed price, with no haggling or middlemen, so the process is likely to remain popular even after the pandemic.
Independent inspectors are easy to find
If you’ve spoken to the dealer, viewed pictures online, and even taken a virtual tour of the car but still aren’t convinced, there’s another option. An independent inspector will charge you a fairly modest sum (usually around £100-£200) to investigate the vehicle and send you a report. The process is similar to having a surveyor take a look at a property before you sign the deeds.
Getting an inspector involved has a range of benefits. Not only will you get their objective opinion on a vehicle, but you’ll gain a level of insight that wouldn’t have been possible even if you’d visited the dealership yourself. Inspectors know cars inside out. They’ll be able to report on the quality of the engine, identify any faults, and send you a comprehensive report. If you’re new to remote purchases, this is the best way to ensure peace of mind.
Auto transport is economical, safe and reliable
Even if you’ve just purchased your dream vehicle, few people will want to make the trek to collect it. Petrol and time are both considerations, but there is another way. Auto transport services like Guardian Auto Transport will pick up your vehicle and deliver it straight to your door. These services are usually fully customisable and come with the option to have your car delivered enclosed (protecting it from the elements).
Auto transport services really do mean that the automotive world is your oyster. They allow you to broaden your search almost exponentially, ensuring that geographical constraints no longer bind you. Of course, it’s important to factor the cost of transportation into the price of your new vehicle, but that isn’t too much of a problem. Cars sold at a fixed price online are usually cheaper than those bought via face-to-face haggling. If you’re itching to jump behind the wheel of your new car, be sure to check out these tips on getting your old vehicle sold as quickly as possible!
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