60% of US residents prefer buying a car online from a manufacturer rather than from a car dealership or private car seller. It’s a smart play for many car buyers due to the numerous advantages over buying a vehicle from a car dealer.
If you require any specific configurations in your vehicle, like special paint finishes or off-road wheels, the vehicle manufacturer can accommodate these requests. Many of these modifications are covered under your vehicle manufacturer's warranty. After-market additions are often a different story. If you need help with how to order a car from a factory, we're here to help. This how-to guide explores, in detail, how to buy a car directly from the manufacturer.
Is it Possible to Buy a Car Directly From a Manufacturer?
Yes, it is possible to purchase a car directly from the manufacturer in most circumstances. However, there are some major roadblocks to buying a vehicle from manufacturers due to local laws and the particular vehicle brand. Generally speaking, most states have regulations that prevent auto manufacturers from selling cars directly to customers.
However, a notable shift towards direct-sales models has occurred in recent years, especially during vehicle shortages.
Now, many automakers offer unique options for customers to order a car from the factory. These options are commonly referred to as custom ordering or build-to-order models.
Where to Order Car Directly From Manufacturer?
Are you ready to buy a car directly from a manufacturer? There are two ways to do so.
Via a Dealership
You'll need to contact a local car dealership to buy a car directly from the manufacturer. Your local dealer will coordinate the order from purchase through delivery.
It's critical to find an auto dealer you can trust. Transparency and communication are crucial. Use word of mouth and review sites such as BBB and Yelp to find a dealership with a reputation for excellent customer service.
If you're trying to purchase a new model in high demand, the car buying process will likely be challenging and time-consuming. In such scenarios, it’s wise to work with high-volume car dealerships, which typically have a more extensive inventory of much-desired vehicles.
Online Through the Manufacturer
Auto brands like Tesla, Rivian, and Lucid are making it possible for customers to buy a vehicle directly from the manufacturer. To do so, you go online, find your desired model, configure it to your preference, and place an order. It’s extremely convenient and is often the best way to buy a car.
Buying a vehicle from a manufacturer eliminates stressful negotiations with salespeople or dealerships. However, some states still don't allow manufacturers to sell cars without the involvement of a franchise dealership. Consult your local and state laws before ordering a car directly from the manufacturer.
A Step-By-Step Guide to Order a Car From the Factory
Ordering a car straight from the factory gives auto buyers ultimate control. You can customize your vehicle to the smallest details, tailoring your ride exactly how you want it. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you buy a car directly from the manufacturer.
Step 1: Choose A Car Manufacturer
- Research various car manufacturers that offer a custom ordering process.
- Choose an auto manufacturer that suits your preferences and budget.
Step 2: Build Your Vehicle Online
- Visit your auto manufacturer’s website and use their ordering system to customize a vehicle. Car modifications include trim level, paint hue, and interior furnishing.
- Print out the build sheet for future reference.
Step 3: Visit a Dealership or Contact Them Online
- Head to a car dealership that stocks the make and model you want and bring along your build sheet.
- Present your build sheet to the sales associate and explain what you want from the vehicle you order.
- If you want to avoid driving to a dealership, contact them online. Just send a digital copy of the build sheet to your auto dealer.
Step 4: Negotiate & Finalize Pricing
- Get an out-the-door (OTD) quotation for your car and negotiate the price as needed.
- Once you’re happy with the price, sign off on the paperwork.
Step 5: Place the Order
- Get a signed copy of the agreed-upon build sheet from your dealership.
- The car dealership will place the order with the factory on your behalf.
Step 6: Track Your Order
- Contact your dealer for updates about the status of your manufacturer order.
Step 7: Final Preparations
- Get an approved loan (if necessary) to buy a car before delivery.
- Consider additional add-ons like extended warranties and GAP insurance.
Step 8: Receive Your Car:
- Once your car arrives at the dealership, finish your paperwork, and you've got a new car!
Step 9: Getting Your Car Shipped:
- When ordering a car from a factory in a different state, you'll need to coordinate car shipping with the dealership.
- This step may involve additional costs and logistics for the transportation company servicing your order. To estimate costs, you can use a car-shipping calculator.
Which Automakers Allow Customers to Buy a Car from the Manufacturer?
Tesla, Rivian, and Lucid allow online car buyers to purchase a car directly. Volvo and Audi are also at the forefront of the custom ordering trend, particularly with their electric cars. You can order Volvo's C40 Recharge SUV online, although you'll have to receive the delivery in person at a participating dealership.
Toyota has also joined the fray of online car buying sites by introducing SmartPath. The SmartPath platform guides buyers through the entire purchasing process. Once customers hit submit on the order form, dealerships contact them to arrange the car delivery process.
Tips to Negotiate on Price When Buying a Car From a Manufacturer
Feel free to negotiate for your best deal. It's in your rights as a car buyer and can save you hundreds, if not thousands, off the asking price. Here are some negotiation techniques when you buy a car directly from the manufacturer.
- ● Get Multiple Quotes: Contact different manufacturer-authorized dealerships for price quotes. This will enable you to compare costs and find competitive offers.
- ● Timing Is Key: Timing is everything when it comes to negotiating. Dealerships and manufacturers are more inclined to provide discounts or incentives during certain times, such as the end of a month, quarter, or year.
- ● Be Prepared to Walk Away: Say 'no' if something doesn't meet your expectations. Car dealers are often more flexible when you consider other car buying options.
Nexus Auto Transport - The Nation’s Leading Car Shipping Company
Nexus Auto Transport offers multiple secure, cost-effective car shipping options when buying a car directly from a manufacturer online. If you cannot travel to a dealership to pick up your car or drive it home, it pays to have one of the nation's best auto transport companies on your side.
Nexus is a complete vehicle shipping management company trusted by thousands of US customers annually. Our expert dispatch and support staff handles every detail of your car transport order from dealership to doorstep. We only partner with top car haulers vetted for driving history, safety rating, equipment quality, and valid insurance.
When you ship a car with Nexus, we go the extra mile to earn your business. Grab a quote online today or call us at (224) 218-2949 to get started.
