Prior to the veritable explosion of the internet in the late 1990s and early 2000s, purchasing a car – whether new or used – was a time-consuming process, requiring the buyer to flick through catalogs featuring a variety of cars or physically visit a local car dealership. This led to many car buyers obtaining vehicles within their locality rather than searching further afield, which often prevented even the savviest of customers from scouting a worthwhile deal.
With the ascendance of smartphone and internet-based culture – including social media – the pool from which to search for a suitable vehicle has expanded exponentially. In addition to local and state-wide new and used car dealerships, there are now social media-based marketplaces, online car dealerships, and vehicle trading/scrap companies that are solely internet-based for customers to peruse when attempting to purchase a new car.
Looking Further Afield – Why Purchase from Out of State
With technology gradually reducing the distance between people and places, it has become entirely feasible for the average automobile customer to obtain their chosen vehicle from much further afield than would have been possible thirty years or so ago.
The lack of state-to-state advertising and relative isolation from other parts of the country that was prevalent in the 1980s and early 1990s meant that attempting to search for and purchase a car from elsewhere would be an expensive endeavor for the average customer, creating large transportation fees and uncertainty due to the limited means of communication between the seller and the customer. However, this often meant that customers in affluent, densely-populated cities were paying more for their automobile purchases, remaining unaware of deals available elsewhere in the country. The introduction of various forms of technology – from home computers and laptops to smartphones – has eased customers’ difficulties in locating good deals on new and used cars, helping them to purchase their desired vehicle at the best available price, no matter where from.
Transporting Vehicles from Afar
A result of technological advancements is the consequent development of a plethora of automobile transportation companies, who can be easily located online to compare their services and prices. Guardian Auto Transport – who only work with the top 10% of auto carriers in the country – are one such company, highly valuing excellent customer service and communication, while charging reasonable prices.
Lower Price Equals Limited Service
Although this concept is one that is generally universally correct regardless of the sector, it is one that is often overlooked or ignored. When purchasing a vehicle from a long-distance seller or searching for a transportation company, the lowest price is not always that – the lowest price. Many customers fail to read the small print that outlines additional fees and surcharges, simply impressed by the initial low cost advertised. It is also crucial to note that, often, the higher price band includes consideration of the high-level of service offered: putting gas in the vehicle during transportation, ensuring the cleanliness of the automobile is maintained, and including insurance in the outlined transportation price to prevent customers from being liable for any damage – which, with highly-skilled, experienced drivers, is incredibly rare.
In addition – particularly when consumers are looking to purchase a used car – it is worthwhile for customers to pay more for a car that has been thoroughly assessed, with certificates proving its roadworthiness, than purchasing a cheaper vehicle without the necessary documentation, and having to pay much more than initially expected as a result.
Whether customers are looking to purchase a brand-new vehicle from a reputed car dealership, or locate an independent seller online to obtain a high-quality used automobile, there are now numerous ways to identify the best, most beneficial deal, regardless of a consumer’s financial circumstances and location.
