Do you remember going on your first date? After finally getting the courage to walk up to that person and ask them out, they say “Yes” and life is good. But now that you have the date set, you have to prepare for that date. This is similar to the steps dealers take after buying a new vehicle from an auto auction.
While Big Valley Auto Auction doesn't help dealers with dating advice, we’ve helped guide thousands of dealers take the next steps after purchasing a new vehicle, since 2008.
In this article, you’re going to learn the necessary, and optional, steps involved in the post-purchase auction process.
After reading this article, you’ll have the information needed to help you prepare to take your new inventory to your lot.
What Steps Should I Take After Purchasing a Vehicle At An Auto Auction?
Having a date scheduled is like purchasing a vehicle. You have it, but now you need to follow up. But before you take your new vehicle to your lot, there are 3 steps you can take after finalizing your purchase.
Step 1: Post Sale Inspection (Optional)
Buyers in town and out-of-town (7 day)
- $3,001-$9,999 = $115.00 inspection price
- $10,000-$29,999 = $140.00 inspection price
- $30,000-$74,999 = $200.00 inspection price
Only available to out-of-town buyers (14 day)
- $350.00 inspection price
Step 2: Reconditioning Work (Optional)
When you’re about to go on a date, it’s up to you to decide if you want to brush your teeth and comb your hair. These steps are not necessary, but they could definitely have some rewards. Just like cleaning up for a date, reconditioning work prepares your vehicle for the right person to see. There are 6 different reconditioning services Big Valley Auto Auction offers, so you can spend less time worrying about your vehicle’s appearance and more time on other parts of your business.
Exterior Wash: $25.00 per vehicle
Our Exterior Wash service is like a shower for your vehicle. It completely washes and applies Armor All to the exterior, which may be all your vehicle needs to look brand new.
Wash, Vacuum, and Tire Dressing: $35.00 per vehicle
Sometimes a shower isn’t enough to get the job done. If your vehicle needs a little more help, this service includes an exterior wash, plus removing all trash from the inside, vacuuming the interior of the vehicle, and applying Armor All to the wheels.
Standard Detail: $115.00 per vehicle
A standard detail removes all trash from inside the vehicle, carpet upholstery, wipes down and dresses rims and wheel wells, and completely rinses and dries the vehicle.
Premium Detail: $200.00 per vehicle
This service consists of everything a standard detail offers, but also includes a complete buff of the vehicle, leaving your car’s exterior looking brand new.
De-Identification: Prices start at $115.00 per vehicle
De-Identification is like a tattoo removal. This removes any company logos, vehicle wraps, decals or stickers from the vehicle. In cases of ghosting or shadows, paint can be used upon request. (We do not recommend you get a tattoo removed for a date unless you absolutely want to surprise the heck out of them).
Headlight Restoration: $40.00 per vehicle
If you want to impress your date with a shiny, white smile, you’ll have to brush and floss your teeth. Likewise, our headlight restoration service brings your headlights back to life by repairing sun and fog damage. However, just like brushing doesn’t repair chipped or damaged teeth, headlight restoration does not fix cracks or broken bulbs.
(Did you know that 94% of people say that the first thing they notice about a person is their smile? Imagine how many dealers judge a vehicle by its headlights. It’s always best to play it safe than sorry.)
Step 3: Arrange Transportation
Once you’re done preparing for your date, you have to go pick them up. However, you might not have your own form of transportation, so you’ll take an Uber or ask someone for a ride. If you’re unable to transport the vehicle to your lot yourself, Big Valley Auto Auction offers transportation services to all of our registered dealers. Our services include dolly, trailers, and transports.
However, in order for the vehicle to leave the premises, it requires a gate pass. No matter who is taking it, a gate pass is necessary. You can contact Big Valley Auto Auction at 956-461-9000 for information on our transportation services.
Do I Know What to Do After Purchasing a Vehicle at an Auto Auction?
In the same way being told “Yes” to a date can be an exciting experience, so is purchasing a vehicle at an auto auction. However, knowing how to follow up, such as transportation and optional services like inspections and reconditioning work, helps make the process smoother.
If this is your first time purchasing a vehicle at an auto auction, you can use this article as a guide to help you prepare for your next successful auction day.
Now that you know what to do after purchasing a vehicle at an auto auction, learn how to market that vehicle once it’s on your lot and ready to sell.
