Buying A Car That Needs To Be Shipped

Dear Miss Mota Mouth,

I am planning on buying a car that I found online but it has to be shipped because it is out of state. What is the process for this?

Eric in Idaho

According to eBay, 70% of the cars sold on that site are sold across state lines so buying cars that are not local to you is increasingly common because buyers are realizing that some cars are cheaper in other parts of the country or have had kinder climates that have kept them in better condition.

First you should get it inspected by a qualified mechanic- http://www.inspectmyride.com has a national network of mechanics who will go do a full inspection on your behalf and you don't have to be there.

For payment, consider using a service like escrow.com which will take care to insure that payment clears and that they car is being sold in stated condition. They will even do the tax, title and license for you and you and the buyer can split the cost because it protects you both.

As for transportation companies- you will have to decide if you want a covered transporter or not and cost will determine what you decide in the end but it is advisable to get good digital pictures of the car before it goes on the truck just protect you. Many transporters can provide additional insurance but make sure that it covers everything that you may worry about.

That pretty much sums it up- good luck!

Stumble It!