How can I buy a used car from out of state and ship it?

Jun 30, 2023

Buying a Car Across State Lines: Your Complete Guide

Would you like to buy a car from another state? You're in good company.

According to research, 2% of new automobile transactions in the United States occurred before the COVID epidemic, whereas 30% were conducted virtually after it.

Is it possible to purchase an automobile outside of your state? If so, how can you purchase used automobiles outside of your state? Buying a secondhand automobile from out of state and having it transported safely? Here's everything you need to know.

Why Buy a Car Out of State?

The easiest option to purchase a car is online if you have found a unique or antique model that is located several states away. The same is true for online car auctions selling vehicles from other states, where purchasers may get fantastic savings.

You should be aware that some of the greatest online car-selling resources are Cars.com and Autotrader. In addition, eBay Motors and CarMax are among the top websites for used automobile purchases.

Before Purchasing A Car From Outside Of Your State, Review The Vehicle History Report

Getting a current copy of the history report for the used automobile you want to purchase is one of the first steps when doing so outside of your home state. This report will include details on repairs, recalls, and mishaps. Additionally, you could learn whether the automobile has any title problems, such as a rebuilt title.

You may identify potential issues that can make you decide against buying the car or affect your negotiations by using the information in the history report.

Let's use an example where the automobile report discloses that the title of the vehicle has some liens on it. You must wait until these liens are paid off before attempting to move this automobile to your state. If you do, you can wind up being held legally accountable for these liens.

Before Purchasing A Car From Outside The State, Get It Inspected

Get the automobile examined, if at all feasible, before deciding to purchase a car from another state.

You might be able to persuade the car's seller to take it for a thorough check to a local repair. If so, you should request that the mechanic examine both the vehicle's primary systems and individual pieces. They consist of the following:

Steering system
Tires
Brakes
Suspension
Transmission
Engine

You can use this information as leverage to negotiate a reduced automobile price if the examination identifies a fault. As an alternative, you can renege on the agreement.

Before Purchasing A Used Car From Outside Of The State, Research Required Emissions & Safety Tests

Finding out about the emissions and safety test regulations in your state is yet another crucial step in purchasing a secondhand automobile from another state.

You should get in touch with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to do this. As an alternative, you may check the department's website to learn more about the inspections your car needs to pass.

Your new car might need to go through safety, odometer, and/or emissions testing, depending on the requirements in your state. Before registering the vehicle (more on this procedure later), you'll need to complete any necessary repairs if the vehicle ends up failing the inspection.

When Purchasing A Used Vehicle From A Different State, Have The Vehicle Insured

Once you've decided to purchase a car out of state, you'll need to have it insured, either with your existing auto insurance provider or a different one. You won't be allowed to drive it lawfully till after that.

Before the automobile is shipped to you, complete this step (more on this will follow).

Cost of Moving a Car to a Different State

You'll also need to account for shipping charges if you want to purchase an automobile outside of your state. Numerous things will affect these expenses.

For instance, if your automobile is within 500 miles of your house and you utilize an open carrier, cross-country car transportation may run you a few hundred bucks. Consider using a closed carrier when your automobile is more than 2,500 miles away. You could spend more than a few thousand dollars.

You may estimate your shipping expenses with a car shipping calculator.

Register Your New Car ASAP When You Buy a Vehicle Out of State

The following documents must be brought to the Department of Motor Vehicles once you have acquired your vehicle in order to register it: shall be.

Inspection certification
Your driver's license
The bill of sale
Proof of your address

Paperwork certifying the identification number of your car may also be required. You may easily register your automobile in your name and address with all of this paperwork.

Remember that you typically have 30 days or less to finish the registration procedure in many states. You should prepare to face fines if you miss the deadline.

When You Buy A Car In Another State, You Must Pay The Sales Tax

When purchasing a car in another state, it's important to be prepared for the sales tax that may apply. The sales tax is a mandatory fee that is typically imposed by the state government and is calculated based on the purchase price of the vehicle. It is important to note that not all states levy a sales tax on vehicle purchases.

If you are buying a car in a state that does have a sales tax, you will be required to pay the applicable tax when you register the vehicle in your home state. The registration process usually involves providing documentation of the vehicle purchase, including the sales receipt or bill of sale.

However, if you live in a state that does not impose a sales tax on vehicle purchases, you may be exempt from paying any additional fees. It's essential to familiarize yourself with the tax laws of both the state where you are buying the car and your home state to understand your obligations regarding sales tax.

Before finalizing your car purchase, it's recommended to consult with the dealership or a tax professional to determine the exact amount of sales tax you will need to pay. They can provide you with accurate information based on the specific tax rates and exemptions applicable to your situation.

Remember, staying informed about the sales tax requirements when buying a car in another state will ensure that you are prepared to fulfill your financial obligations and avoid any surprises during the registration process.

How Can We Help With a "Can You Buy a Car Out of State?

The good news is that buying a used automobile from outside of your state is simple if you're wondering "Can you buy a car out of state?"

Be ready to get the automobile inspected and look through its history report after speaking with many car dealers and locating the ideal vehicle. You'll also need to have the automobile delivered to you and insured. Following that, you may register it with your state and pay the applicable sales tax.

Those looking to export an automobile to another state can get assistance from Budget Auto Transporter. To plan a shipment or to learn more about our services, get in touch with us right now.