The fast-evolving and tech-driven world has led to significant changes in the automotive industry, especially in how consumers purchase vehicles. Buying cars directly from the factory is trending since it allows you to bypass traditional classic dealerships.
Can you buy a car directly from the manufacturer? This approach is preferred as it has proven beneficial in terms of cost reduction, increased customization options, and building close ties with manufacturers.
Still, buyers wonder if they can buy car direct from manufacturer by bypassing the dealership. This guide explores the ins and outs of buying a car directly from the manufacturer, including where to order a car and tips for negotiating your purchase.
Key Highlights
- Growing Trend: Buying a car directly from the manufacturer is becoming increasingly popular primarily due to benefits like reduced costs and greater customization.
- Customization Options: Bypassing dealerships allows buyers to specify features, colors, and other details, ensuring they get the exact vehicle they want.
- Manufacturer-Dealer Partnership: While the car may be ordered directly from the manufacturer, dealerships handle logistics, financing, and final delivery.
- Negotiation Tips: Buyers are advised to research, be prepared to walk away, and consider purchasing during sales events for better deals.
- Shipping with Sherpa: Sherpa Auto Transport can facilitate smooth and secure vehicle shipping once the car is ready for delivery.
In This Guide:
- Buying a Car Direct From the Manufacturer
- Can You Buy a Car Directly From the Manufacturer?
- Where to Order a Car From the Manufacturer?
- How to Buy a Car From the Factory?
- Tips to Negotiate on Price When Buying a Car From a Manufacturer
Buying a Car Direct From the Manufacturer
Car dealerships have lots full of cars that people are looking to buy. It is a viable option for a simple buy-and-sell process. The problem arises when you’re looking for something more customized than what the dealership has to offer.
Dealerships place their orders according to the expected demand and what the manufacturer can easily supply. You might be out of luck if you’re searching for a car with a specific color, special features, and interior designed to your liking.
At this point, you have the option to settle, shop around at other dealerships (with no guarantee that they have what you want), or get the car built just for you.
There’s a third option: buy car direct from manufacturer according to your specifications. This is becoming a more popular course of action for car buyers.
The customers get the exact vehicle they’re looking for while reducing unnecessary inventory from dealership lots. It also prevents manufacturers from building too many cars that might not sell.
Can You Buy a Car Directly From the Manufacturer?
Yes, you can buy car direct from manufacturer. The process may require working closely with a dealership.
Some manufacturers offer programs that allow customers to customize their vehicles and order directly, especially for specific models or configurations.
However, most consumers typically complete the transaction through authorized dealerships, which act as intermediaries.
Where to Order a Car From the Manufacturer?
From a Dealership
The most traditional route for buying a car is through a dealership. They often have the latest inventory and can facilitate the ordering process directly from the manufacturer. Dealerships also provide the benefit of handling any paperwork and logistics, making the overall experience smoother for buyers.
Additionally, knowledgeable sales staff can provide insights into different vehicles, answer your questions, and help you find the perfect car that meets your needs.
Many dealerships also offer test drives, allowing you to experience a vehicle’s performance firsthand before committing.
Furthermore, dealerships typically handle all the financing options, trade-in valuations, and necessary paperwork, streamlining the purchasing process and ensuring you leave with your new vehicle ready to hit the road.
This convenience can be particularly beneficial for first-time buyers or those unfamiliar with purchasing.
Online From a Manufacturer
Many manufacturers have embraced digital solutions. You can often customize and order a vehicle through their official websites. This option allows you to choose specific features, colors, and upgrades directly, and it may offer exclusive deals unavailable at dealerships.
Even when you order directly from the manufacturer, dealerships are still heavily involved. The automaker you buy from will still need you to select a dealership where your vehicle will be delivered.
It will also act as your main point of contact for product and shipment updates and handle the paperwork required to process your order.
After you choose your new ride and complete the necessary documentation, the manufacturer will get to work. If the car is being built by a domestic automaker, it will typically take around eight weeks without delays to build and deliver your new car.
Delivery times are closer to three months if your car comes from overseas. You can avail Sherpa Auto Transport’s Car Buyer Auto Transport Services, we offer efficient, reliable, and secure transportation solutions.
Sherpa bridges the gap between online car purchases and physical delivery, providing a smooth transportation experience for buyers.
How to Buy a Car From the Factory?
You should now have a better idea that purchasing a car at the factory can be relatively different from involving a dealer. Look at the steps required to buy a car directly from the manufacturer.
Step 1: Research Decide on a Manufacturer
Research various manufacturers to find one that meets your needs, budget, and preferences. A proper manufacturer can determine how smooth the car purchase process is, so you should do your due diligence comprehensively.
It’s best to look for the manufacturer of your choice based on its brand reputation, the range of vehicles, and the ease of sourcing them directly from the factory. Consider factors such as vehicle reliability, customer service, and overall reputation.
Find out their policies on vehicle customization, pricing, and delivery duration to meet your expectations.
Step 2: Design Your Vehicle
Once you’ve chosen a worthy manufacturer, you can usually customize your vehicle online. A web configurator or a direct negotiation with an individual representing the factory can help you through this process. Select your desired features, color options, and upgrades.
Your ideal configuration can include everything from the color choice or wheel design to the car’s performance pack type and ultra-modern technological features.
During the customization process, you must consider your needs and preferences. For instance, if you go for a hybrid or electric-powered engine, you will think much about the fuel consumption rate.
Step 3: Visit Dealership
After customizing your vehicle, visit a nearby dealership to discuss your order. They can provide additional information about availability and estimated delivery times.
Step 4: Finalize Pricing and Financing Options
Negotiate the price of your car. Ensure you understand the full costs, including any potential sales tax, registration fees, and other charges.
Some manufacturers will offer financing directly, which can be more convenient and effortless. Otherwise, you’ll need to secure funding from some independent source, such as a bank loan.
If the manufacturer does finance, compare their terms with other lenders to ensure you get the best deal.
Step 5: Place Order
After configuring your vehicle, you can place an order with the manufacturer, preferably through the factory or online.
Go through the order details and make your request as precise as possible. You need your vehicle configured correctly; a mistake in the ordering process would be your responsibility.
It’s equally essential to understand the terms of the sale, estimated delivery timeline, and any other ancillary costs accompanying the sale.
Protip: If you want to cancel an order later, it’s important to inquire about the manufacturer’s cancellation policy.
Step 6: Track Order
Ask the dealership how you can track the status of your order. Many manufacturers provide an online tracking system for this purpose.
Step 7: Receive Car & Finish Paperwork
Usually, manufacturers provide standard warranties, but different companies have different terms and conditions. Therefore, its important to review the warranty documents and inquire about other available service packages.
When your vehicle arrives, you will be notified. Please make an appointment to pick it up, make transportation arrangements and finalize all necessary paperwork.
Step 8: Get Your Car Shipped
Once you’ve carefully reviewed the purchase documents, you should get your car shipped. The selected manufacturer may deliver the vehicle to a specified location or your residence, as per your preference.
If you’re using Sherpa Auto Transport, now is the time to arrange for vehicle shipping. Our reliable car shipping services ensure your new vehicle reaches your doorstep safely and efficiently. Learn more about our shipping services here.
Tips to Negotiate on Price When Buying a Car From a Manufacturer
- Do Your Research: Conduct thorough research about the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP), ongoing promotions or incentives.
- Be Prepared to Walk Away: If negotiations aren’t working your way, you can always explore other options in the market.
- Consider Timing: Purchasing at the end of the month or during sales events can result in better pricing.
- Clear Communication: Be open about your budget and what you need from the deal upfront to ensure understanding.
You can check our guides on buying a car online and when to buy a new car for more tips and related services. Once you understand the car buying process from the manufacturer, you can make informed decisions that lead to a satisfying purchase experience.