Buying cars online has become a convenient and increasingly popular option for many buyers. The ease of browsing a vast inventory, comparing prices, and completing most of the transaction from the comfort of your home makes it an appealing choice. However, once you’ve chosen your car, the next question is: how do you get it delivered to you? Thankfully, there are several options for delivery when buying a car online, each offering different levels of convenience, cost, and time.

Home Delivery

Home delivery is one of the most straightforward options when purchasing a car online. Many online car retailers, such as Carvana, Vroom, or Shift, offer home delivery as part of their service. With this option, once you complete your purchase, the seller will arrange for the car to be delivered directly to your doorstep.

The timeline for home delivery can vary depending on your location, but most companies provide an estimated delivery window. Typically, home delivery takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on distance and the specific seller’s logistics.

Flatbed or Tow Truck Delivery

For certain types of cars, especially those that may not be in working condition or need special handling, flatbed or tow truck delivery might be used. This method is commonly employed for classic cars, luxury cars, or cars purchased from an auction or private seller. The vehicle is loaded onto a flatbed or tow truck and safely transported to your location.

Although this option may be more expensive than typical delivery, it provides added protection for vehicles that cannot be driven, ensuring they arrive in the condition they were shipped in.

Driveaway Service

In a driveaway service, a professional driver or transporter is assigned to pick up the car and drive it to your location. This service is typically offered for longer distances, such as when buying a car from a dealership or a private seller that is far from your home.

While the cost of this service can vary, it may be an affordable option if you want to avoid the potential risks and added cost of shipping. Driveaway services also allow you to have the car immediately ready for use, as it’s driven directly to your home.

Third-Party Shipping Companies

In some cases, you may purchase a car from a smaller dealer or a private seller who doesn’t offer their own delivery services. In these instances, third-party car shipping companies are often utilized. These companies specialize in transporting vehicles, and their services include options for open or enclosed transport.

Open transport is the more common and affordable choice, where the car is loaded onto a truck with other vehicles. Enclosed transport, on the other hand, is more expensive but provides better protection, as the car is delivered in an enclosed container, protecting it from the elements. Go to www.shiply.com to obtain quotes for trusted car transportation services.

Pick-Up at a Dealership or Hub

Some online car marketplaces offer the option to have your vehicle delivered to a local dealership or hub, where you can pick it up. This can be a more cost-effective option compared to direct home delivery, and it gives buyers the opportunity to inspect the car before finalizing the purchase. However, it does require you to travel to the pick-up location, which may not be ideal for everyone.