The Best Online Car-Selling Options for U.S. Sellers
While selling your car online can help you reach a broad audience, you may have to deal with tire-kickers, handle negotiations, and ensure a secure transaction. Thankfully, trusted platforms simplify the process by offering several seamless services. Here are some of the top online options you can use in the U.S.
Edmunds
Edmunds began as a vehicle appraisal service but has evolved into a trusted resource for car buyers and sellers. The website’s unique selling point includes numerous expert and user reviews, detailed vehicle comparisons, and a proprietary True Market Value pricing system that helps users understand fair market prices.
eBay Motors
As part of the massive eBay marketplace, eBay Motors lets sellers choose between auction-style listings or fixed-price sales. It’s especially beneficial for those selling rare or high-value vehicles, as it attracts a global audience. The platform’s Vehicle Protection Program enhances trust and makes your car more appealing.
AutoTrader
This industry leader provides sellers access to millions of buyers. The listing packages include premium placement and car history reports to help your vehicle stand out. AutoTrader’s partnership with dealerships allows you to explore trade-in offers if you don’t want to sell directly to individuals.
Carvana
Known for revolutionizing the online car buying and selling process, Carvana offers sellers a straightforward experience. Input your vehicle’s information, receive an instant offer, and schedule a no-contact pickup. They take care of everything, including paperwork, making it a hassle-free solution for anyone prioritizing convenience over profit.
CarMax
CarMax is a leading retailer known for its “no-haggle pricing” model, which simplifies the buying and selling process by eliminating the stress of negotiations. Offering a seven-day money-back guarantee and allowing sellers to receive an appraisal and immediate cash offer at their locations facilitates the transaction process.
Facebook Marketplace
With over a billion users, Facebook Marketplace allows sellers to easily list their cars for free while tapping into a vast audience. Sellers can create detailed listings with multiple photos and communicate with buyers through Facebook Messenger. The platform is best for local deliveries that exclude shipping logistics.
Craigslist
This remains a go-to for local car sales. It allows sellers to post listings cheaply and without much red tape. The platform also supports direct communication between buyers and sellers. However, be cautious of schemers, as Craigslist lacks some necessary security features found on some platforms.
TrueCar
On TrueCar, sellers have two primary options: listing their car on the platform or getting an instant trade-in offer from participating dealerships. Transparency is TrueCar’s key advantage, as it shows you real-time data on what similar vehicles are selling for. This will help you price your car fairly and competitively.
Cars.com
As one of the largest user bases for car sales, Cars.com welcomes millions of visitors monthly. Sellers can create comprehensive listings with photos, detailed descriptions, and pricing suggestions based on market trends. Additionally, Cars.com offers optional premium packages that can give your listing more visibility.
CarGurus
Founded in 2006 by Langley Steinert, CarGurus is a leading online automotive marketplace that distinguishes itself through its powerful data analytics and user-centric features. The platform utilizes proprietary algorithms to analyze millions of car listings daily, providing users with transparent pricing information and fair market values for vehicles.
AutoNation
AutoNation is distinguished by its extensive network of dealerships and comprehensive services. Its online vehicle appraisal tool offers instant cash based on real-time market data. This website also provides transparent pricing, vast inventory, and the option for sellers to trade in their vehicles directly at any of its locations.
KBB Instant Cash Offer (Kelley Blue Book)
As a trusted vehicle valuation service, it offers the Instant Cash Offer service, which allows you to receive a firm offer from a local dealer based on your car’s market value. Sellers can redeem the offer within a few days, providing a fast, transparent, and dealer-backed transaction, especially for those looking to avoid private buyers.
OfferUp
OfferUp’s mobile-centric marketplace makes it incredibly easy to list and sell cars locally. You can create listings quickly, viewable by the platform’s large audience. The platform also features in-app messaging and, for enhanced safety, includes buyer and seller ratings, which helps build trust.
Copart
Since 1982, this leading online vehicle auction platform, headquartered in Dallas, has transformed how vehicles are bought and sold. The platform employs innovative virtual bidding technology, allowing users to take part in live auctions from anywhere. Users who sell their cars through Copart receive free towing and instant payment.