If you’re interested in buying a new car, you may wonder if you can order it straight from the factory. Not only is it possible, but it’s the way to go right now. Finding the car you want on a dealer lot in 2022 is nearly impossible. Thanks to inventory shortages, the chances of your exact choice being in stock are very low. However, you can custom order a car from the factory. Here’s everything you need to know about ordering a car.

How to order a car from the factory

According to Cars.com, ordering a car is simple and easy. Firstly, go to the automaker’s website of your choosing. For example, if you want a Toyota RAV4, visit the Toyota site. From there, you can build and configure your vehicle of choice. Everything can be found here, from trim level to color to optional accessories, so be sure to add everything you want. Next, the vehicle you’ve built is available to order through a local dealership.

Unfortunately, this process won’t get you out of dealer fees and typically requires a $500-$1,000 deposit. Furthermore, make sure the deposit is refundable and will be applied to the order if you’re unsure about the purchase. The vehicle will arrive at the dealership most of the time, and you’ll have to pick it up from there. However, some automakers have ditched the middle-man completely and allow customers to order their vehicles and ship them to their homes.

How long do I have to wait for the car I ordered?

You can order a car from the factory, but you’ll need to wait a while. Especially in 2022, a vehicle can take some time to enter production. Automakers struggle to make enough specific models to sell, so your custom order could take even longer than regular inventory. Moreover, the timing depends on the availability, model, and demand. Highly in-demand models will likely take a very long time, while others will be much quicker.

As Cars.com so eloquently put it, “the order sheet should contain an estimated delivery date, it will be written in sand, not stone.” Toyota’s Midwest public relations manager, Curt McAllister, told Cars.com that timing depends on the vehicle but on average, customers are waiting around two months or more. One employee from the publication reported receiving their 2022 Subaru Forester nearly seven months after placing the order.

Is it better to order a car or buy from a dealer right now?

You are better off ordering a car from the factory if you’re not strapped for time. Ordering from the factory offers a much better chance of getting the exact vehicle you’re looking for. Alternatively, if you’re not particularly picky about the color, packages, or other model features you want, the dealer might be a better option.

In conclusion, ordering from the factory is possible and provides more flexibility with your car of choice. It can be challenging to purchase a vehicle from the dealership in 2022. Those who choose to do so will have to be very willing to change their preferences for their model of choice. However, finding the perfect car on a dealer lot isn’t impossible.