What is the difference between dealer invoice and auto trade invoice?
2 Answers
"Dealer invoice refers to the purchase invoice from a 4S store, while auto trade invoice refers to the purchase invoice from an auto trade company. The difference between the two lies in the vehicle's after-sales service and price. Generally, the price of buying a car from a 4S store is higher than from an auto trade company. This is because auto trade companies source vehicles from 4S stores with the lowest prices nationwide, while 4S stores source directly from manufacturers. Additionally, the operating costs of 4S stores are higher than those of auto trade companies, so the prices on 4S store invoices differ from those on auto trade invoices."
Dealer invoice generally refers to the invoice you receive when purchasing a car from an official 4S dealership. Based on my personal car-buying experience, such invoices are more reliable. The dealership directly represents the manufacturer in selling the vehicles, ensuring a clear and consistent source of the cars. Taxes and license plate registration are hassle-free, and manufacturer warranty services are included, such as a three-year warranty. Although the price may be slightly higher, it offers peace of mind and security. On the other hand, auto trade invoices come from smaller auto trading companies, where prices are much lower. A friend of mine bought a car there to save money but ended up facing numerous maintenance issues later. The car might have been a stock vehicle transferred from another region without manufacturer support, and repair shops could make excuses to avoid responsibility when problems arise. Therefore, when buying a new car, I recommend prioritizing invoices from 4S dealerships. Don’t risk major troubles just to save a few bucks—driving safety should always come first. Spending some time researching the dealership’s background can help you avoid many pitfalls. After all, a car is a significant investment, so don’t create unnecessary headaches for yourself.
