Buying a car from out of state can be a great way to get a good deal on the vehicle you want. By expanding your search beyond your local dealerships, you can often find a car priced lower than what you would pay at home. In addition, buying out of state can give you access to a broader selection of vehicles.
However, the process can be a little tricky, and there are a few things you need to keep in mind when making this type of purchase. For instance, you must find a reputable dealer who will provide you with all the necessary paperwork and support to make the purchase process as smooth as possible. You also have to consider the car shipping cost when purchasing a vehicle from a different state.
Read on for some valuable tips to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible when you’re buying the car in another state.
Tips for Purchasing a Car From Out of State
1. Make Sure You Can Drive the Car in Your State
If you’re thinking of buying a car in one state and moving it to another, there are a few things you should be aware of. Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as just transferring ownership. You’ll need to make sure the car meets the standards of the state it will be registered in. This includes everything from emissions requirements to safety inspections. In some cases, even if a car can pass an inspection in one state, it may not be able to in another.
So before you buy, be sure to do your research and make sure the car will be able to meet all the state’s requirements it will call home. Otherwise, you might find yourself stuck with a vehicle you can’t register – and that’s no fun for anyone.
2. Acquire a Vehicle History Report
If you’re in the market for a used car, you may be considering looking outside your home state. After all, there are often more options and better prices elsewhere. But before you start shopping, it’s essential to get a vehicle history report (VHR). This report can provide valuable information about a car’s past, including accidents or damage. It can also alert you to any safety recalls issued for the vehicle.
Getting a VHR early in the process can help you avoid making a costly mistake. So if you’re thinking of buying a used car from another state, be sure to request a VHR before you make any decisions.
3. Have Someone Else Check the Car For You
Anyone who has bought a car knows that it can be a significant investment. And whether you’re buying a new car from a dealership or a used car from a private seller, you want to make sure you’re getting a good deal on a quality vehicle. That’s why it’s always a good idea to have someone you trust look at a car before you purchase.
If you’re buying from a reputable dealership, they should have no problem with you bringing in your mechanic to check things out. But if you’re considering a pre-owned vehicle from a private party, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and have someone you know take a look at it first. After all, you don’t want to end up with a lemon.
4. Consider Shipping the Car
While it’s certainly true that you can often find a better deal on a car by shopping out of state, it’s important to remember that there are other costs to consider. For example, if you’re planning to drive to another state to pick up your new car, you’ll need to factor in the cost of gas, lodging, and potentially even airfare.
It may be cheaper to have the car shipped in some cases. Of course, that will add to the vehicle’s overall price, but it’s still something to keep in mind. Just make sure you go with a reliable car shipping company so you can get your money’s worth. Read online reviews of these companies and check the Better Business Bureau website to see if there are any scam reports against them.
The Bottom Line
Purchasing a car out of state doesn’t have to be complicated – as long as you’re prepared. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that you’ll end up with a quality vehicle that meets your home state’s requirements. So if you’re in the market for a new set of wheels, don’t be afraid to look beyond your local dealerships. You might find your perfect car waiting for you in another state.
