Buying A Used Car Online? Watch Out For Those NON REFUNDABLE Shipping Costs

Shipping details for online used car dealers

Online used car dealers typically offer shipping services to deliver the purchased vehicle to the buyer's location. The specific shipping details may vary depending on the dealer and the location of the buyer. Here are some common shipping details for online used car dealers:

Shipping Costs: Online used car dealers may charge a shipping fee for delivering the vehicle to the buyer's location. The shipping cost can vary based on factors such as the distance of the delivery, the size and weight of the vehicle, and any additional services requested by the buyer.

Delivery Timeframe: The delivery timeframe for the purchased vehicle can vary depending on the dealer and the buyer's location. Some dealers may offer expedited shipping options for an additional fee, while others may have standard delivery times that range from a few days to a few weeks.

Shipping Methods: Online used car dealers may use various shipping methods to transport the vehicle. Common methods include open transport, where the vehicle is transported on an open trailer, and enclosed transport, where the vehicle is transported in an enclosed trailer for added protection. The specific shipping method used may depend on factors such as the value of the vehicle and the buyer's preferences.

Insurance Coverage: Reputable online used car dealers typically provide insurance coverage for the vehicle during transit. This coverage helps protect the buyer in case of any damage or loss that may occur during shipping. It's important to review the dealer's insurance policy and understand the coverage details before making a purchase.

Tracking and Updates: Many online used car dealers provide tracking and updates throughout the shipping process. This allows the buyer to stay informed about the status of their vehicle's delivery and any potential delays or changes.

Pickup Options: In some cases, online used car dealers may also offer the option for buyers to pick up the purchased vehicle from a designated location. This can be convenient for buyers who prefer to personally inspect the vehicle before taking possession.

It's important to note that shipping details may vary between different online used car dealers. It's recommended to carefully review the shipping policies and terms of the specific dealer you are considering purchasing from to ensure you have a clear understanding of the shipping process and any associated costs.

Based on the search results, it seems that the refundability of shipping costs to online used car dealers can vary depending on the specific dealer and their policies. There is no universal answer to this question as it depends on the terms and conditions set by each individual dealer.

When purchasing a car from an online used car dealer, it is important to carefully review their policies regarding shipping costs and returns. Some dealers may offer free shipping and may refund the shipping costs if a return is initiated within a certain timeframe. However, other dealers may have non-refundable shipping fees or may deduct the shipping costs from any refund provided.

To get accurate information about the refundability of shipping costs to online used car dealers, it is recommended to visit their website or contact their customer support directly. They should be able to provide you with detailed information about their shipping policies and any associated costs or refund procedures.

Here is a list of some online digital used car dealers:

Carvana
Vroom
Shift
CarsDirect
TrueCar
AutoTrader
CarMax
Cars.com
CarGurus
eBay Motors

Used Car Buyers

Consumers who purchase a used car for less than $40,000 must be offered a two-day contract cancellation option agreement.

There is no “cooling off” period unless you purchase a contract cancellation option agreement.

EXCEPTION: The contract cancellation option agreement does not apply to used cars priced at $40,000 or more, new cars, private party sales, motorcycles, off-highway vehicles, recreational vehicles, or vehicles sold for business or commercial use (does not include pickup trucks purchased for personal use).

Cancellation Option Specifics
If you choose to purchase the contract cancellation option agreement, expect to pay:

$75 for a vehicle costing $5,000 or less.
$150 for a vehicle costing $5,001–$10,000.
$250 for a vehicle costing $10,001–$30,000.
One percent of the purchase price for a vehicle costing $30,001–39,999.

If you return the vehicle within the time specified, the dealer may charge a maximum restocking fee of:

$175 for a vehicle costing $5,000 or less.
$350 for a vehicle costing $5,001–$10,000.
$500 for a vehicle costing $10,001–39,999.

NOTE: The contract cancellation option agreement fee is nonrefundable. However, if the dealer charges a restocking fee, they must deduct the contract cancellation option agreement fee from the restocking fee. If the dealer did not charge for the contract cancellation option agreement and sold or transferred title of the vehicle the buyer used as a down payment or trade-in, the fair market value or value stated in the sales contract must be refunded, whichever is greater.

Contract Cancellation Option Agreement Vehicle Returns

The buyer must return the vehicle:
To the dealer where purchased by close of business within two days, or within the time-frame allowed by the contract.
Without exceeding the miles permitted by the contract.
With all original receipts for the sale and contract cancellation option agreement.
In the same condition as received, except for reasonable wear and tear and defects or mechanical problems which occurred after the buyer took possession of the vehicle.
Free of all liens and encumbrances, other than those created by the sales contract.

The dealer must provide a full refund of the sales tax, registration fees, and deposit or trade-in vehicle collected from the buyer. If the buyer did not return the vehicle by the standards above, the dealer may refuse the return of the vehicle; however, a written notice must be provided to the buyer.