can you sell a car during lockdown

[Taylor]

Yes, you can absolutely sell a car during a lockdown. The process has evolved significantly, moving primarily online. While traditional in-person elements like test drives require careful planning, digital tools for valuation, listing, and even financing have made remote selling not just possible, but often more efficient. The key is leveraging online car-buying services, private sale platforms with contactless protocols, and understanding the specific steps for a safe transaction.

The most straightforward method is using an online car buyer like CarMax, Carvana, or Vroom. You enter your car's details on their website, receive a firm, binding offer online, and then schedule a contactless pickup where they pick up the car and handle the paperwork, often with payment via direct deposit. This is ideal for a quick, hassle-free sale, though the offer may be slightly lower than a private sale.

For maximizing profit, a private sale is still viable. Use sites like Facebook Marketplace, Autotrader, or Craigslist. Be transparent in your listing: use high-quality photos and a detailed description to minimize unnecessary questions. The critical step is the test drive. Always insist on a signed proof of insurance and a valid driver's license before any test drive. To minimize contact, you can ride in the back seat or have the potential buyer drive while you follow in another vehicle. For paperwork, electronic signing services (like DocuSign) or contactless drop-off/pickup can be used for the title and bill of sale.

Consideration	Online Buyer (e.g., Carvana)	Private Sale (e.g., Facebook Marketplace)
Speed of Sale	Very fast (often 1-3 days)	Slower (can take weeks)
Final Sale Price	Typically lower, wholesale value	Higher, retail value
Convenience & Safety	High, fully contactless process	Lower, requires personal interaction
Paperwork Handling	Handled by the buyer	Handled by you (seller)
Best For	Sellers prioritizing speed and safety	Sellers prioritizing maximum profit

Before selling, gather your vehicle's title, maintenance records, and a recent vehicle history report (like from Carfax) to build buyer confidence. Check your local DMV website for any specific lockdown-related procedures for title transfers.

[FrankAnn]

I sold my SUV last year when things were tight. It's totally doable. I just took a bunch of clear photos in my driveway and listed it on a couple of apps. I talked to buyers through messages first, and when it came time for a test drive, we met in a big, empty grocery store parking lot. I checked their license through the window and let them take a quick spin alone. It felt safe, and I got a way better price than the dealership offered.

[SanChristopher]

Focus on the digital tools. The entire valuation and listing process can be handled from your phone. Use online estimators from Kelley Blue Book (KBB) or Edmunds to get a baseline value. Then, create a comprehensive listing on a platform like Autotrader. High-quality photos from every angle, including the interior and any flaws, are crucial. This detailed approach pre-qualifies serious buyers and reduces the need for prolonged back-and-forth messaging, making the entire process more efficient and less personal.

[LukasAnn]

Safety is the number one priority. If you proceed with a private sale, establish clear rules. Communicate primarily through the platform's messaging system. For any physical meeting, choose a very public place, like a police station parking lot, which often have designated "safe exchange" zones. Have a friend or family member accompany you. Handle all paperwork—the title transfer and bill of sale—through the window of your car or on the trunk lid to maintain distance. A little planning makes it secure.

[GraceLee]

Don't forget the emotional side. A lockdown is a stressful time, and selling a car can add to that. Be patient. You might get a lot of lowball offers or people who aren't serious. It’s okay to be firm on your price and your safety rules. A clean, well-maintained car is always in demand. Presenting it honestly and being clear about your contactless process will attract the right kind of buyer and make the experience smoother for everyone involved.