What's the cost of selling a car?

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The cost of selling a car
Sell Salvaged Vehicle
By
Laurie Matthews
Laurie Matthews
National Automotive Buyer
June 14, 2023
5
minute read

Factors to consider when selling a car online and at auction

Are you looking to sell a car online or at auction? Selling a vehicle can be an intimidating process, but with the proper research and preparation it doesn’t have to be. How much money you can make depends on several factors including which websites you use, the condition of your car, what extras are included in the sale – such as warranties and service histories – and how quickly you need the cash. 

To ensure that selling your car is an easy transaction, let's explore all of these considerations one by one so that you feel confident when selling your old car.

Car inspection costs

Before selling a car, it is important to invest in an inspection to ensure the safety and functionality of the vehicle. A professional car inspection can identify any potential issues and provide an accurate estimate of the resale value of the car. 

Depending on the type of vehicle and the inspections required, costs can range from $50 - $200. Investing in a thorough inspection before selling a vehicle can help ensure that you get a fair sell price for it, as well as helping protect a potential buyer from unknowingly buying a lemon. Providing as many car details as possible is important when selling a vehicle online. 

Repairs and improvement costs

Before selling a vehicle, it’s important to consider any necessary repairs and improvements. Repairing existing damages can increase the value of a car before putting it on the market. It is also important to make sure that all safety-related components are in working order. 

Depending on what repairs are needed, costs can start from a few hundred dollars for minor repairs, up to several thousand for major repairs such as replacing an engine or transmission. Making small improvements, like waxing and buffing the exterior, can also go a long way in increasing resale value.

Car advertising fees

Selling a car online comes with its own set of advertising fee amounts. Online listings can range from free to hundreds of dollars, depending on what type of service you use. Many websites offer pay-per-click services, which charge for every time someone clicks through to your listing page. Social media advertising is another cost-effective option that can reach potential buyers quickly and easily. 

Additionally, some websites may require a monthly subscription or commission fee in order to list your vehicle on their website. Although these fees can be costly, they are necessary in order to find the right buyer and have a successful sale.

Ownership transfer costs

Transferring car ownership requires paperwork, fees and considerable time. Vehicle owners must submit a title transfer application, complete all the necessary paperwork with an approved and licensed signatory, provide proof of insurance coverage, and pay the applicable registration fee to complete the process. 

The actual cost of transferring car ownership depends on many factors including jurisdiction or state laws and regulations, type of vehicle being transferred, taxes or stamp duty associated in certain areas and any potential extra administration costs. Typical transfer costs range from $25 to $100 per vehicle in Australia, though this number can vary between states.

Costs of selling a car at auction 

Selling a car at auction is an effective and relatively inexpensive way to get the most value for your vehicle. Depending on the type of car you own and its condition, you may be able to make a decent profit from it, especially if you're able to find a reputable auction house in your area. However, there are certain costs associated with using auction services that should be taken into consideration before making any commitments.

On average, auction fees range from around $50 to $200 depending on the location and size of the auction. 

Other fees that may factor in include:

  • Transportation costs
  • Advertising fees
  • Commission charged by the auction house
  • Crossing state line taxes
  • Final value fee

Since these fees can quickly add up, it's important to consider them when assessing your overall bottom line.

Comparing online car-selling marketplaces

When it comes to selling your car online, it's important to be aware of the selling vehicles fee on each marketplace.

Carsales

Carsales selling fees typically include a listing fee, a success fee once the car has been sold, and additional optional fees like premium placement or extra photos. 

AutoTrader 

The cost of these advertisements can vary depending on a number of factors including the type of ad you choose, the region you wish to target, and the duration of your campaign.

Ebay Fees

Ebay Motors offers a pricing system for their advertisement packages, allowing you to choose from a variety of option depending on what works best for you.

Sell your used car to 1800 Salvage now

With our hassle-free approach, we take care of all the paperwork and towing for you, making the selling process a breeze. Plus, we offer competitive prices for your vehicle, so you can rest assured that you're getting a fair deal. Don't waste your time and energy trying to sell your car on your own, let 1800 Salvage handle it for you.

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