How to Sell Your Car to an Online Retailer

It’s astoundingly simple to get an offer from one of these companies with a minimum amount of effort. Each retailer we tested asked for the car’s vehicle identification number (VIN) or license plate number, along with its color and options, both factory and dealer-installed. We also told the system whether the car had been smoked in, if it was involved in a crash, or if it had sustained other damage, such as from flooding. The forms also asked whether there were two keys. Only one—CarMax—asked for photos of the interior and exterior. And if you don’t have the capability to submit photos using your phone, you can bring the car to one of their 250 retail locations for an in-person inspection that, as we verified with one of our vehicles, typically takes less than an hour.

After you’ve submitted your information, you’ll get an offer. We got a number within minutes from all except for CarMax, which still replied the same day. We were then given several days to mull it over, and either accept or decline the offer. If you accept, you’ll have to show proof of ownership and some form of identification. Keep in mind that the laws dictating which paperwork needs to be filled out when you sell (title, bill of sale, etc.) varies from state to state.

In Connecticut, where CR’s Auto Test Center is located, we were asked to provide photos of the car’s current odometer reading, both sides of the title, and the driver’s license from each person listed on the title as an owner.