ShipMyCar US
Car Shipping FAQ · Buying & Selling

What are the most popular websites to sell a car online?

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Quick Answer

Short answer: Popular places to sell a car online include Autotrader, Cars.com, CarMax and Carvana (instant offers), Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist (local private sales), and Bring a Trailer and Hemmings for classic and enthusiast cars.

Last updated: October 23, 2026

Where to Sell

Autotrader

A large audience of private buyers; listing fees apply.

Cars.com

A big marketplace for private and dealer listings.

CarMax and Carvana

Instant offers with no listing work, usually below private-sale value.

Facebook Marketplace

Free local listings and a lot of traffic, but screen buyers carefully.

Bring a Trailer

Online auctions for classic, enthusiast and collectible cars.

Hemmings

Listings for classic, collector and high-end vehicles.

Selling to an Out-of-State Buyer

Agree in writing who arranges and pays for shipping, get paid before releasing the car, and have the buyer's carrier sign the Bill of Lading at pickup. We ship cars between private buyers and sellers in all states — see car shipping services.

Preparing a Strong Listing

  • Clean the car inside and out.
  • Take clear photos of every side, the interior, the engine bay and any flaws.
  • Gather service records and the title.
  • Write an honest description, including known issues.
  • Price it using recent sales of similar cars.

Getting Paid Safely

  • Use a secure method such as a bank transfer that has cleared, a cashier's check verified with the issuing bank, or an escrow service.
  • Don't release the car or title until payment has fully cleared.
  • Be cautious of buyers who want to overpay and ask for a refund of the difference.

Shipping the Car to an Out-of-State Buyer

The buyer usually arranges transport, but you may need to release the car to the driver. Make sure you're paid first, be present for the pickup inspection and keep a copy of the Bill of Lading. Remove your plates if your state requires it, and cancel your insurance after pickup. ShipMyCar US can coordinate door-to-door auto transport for either side of the sale.

Quick Answers

Should I release the car before payment clears?

No. Wait until payment has fully cleared.

Who pays for shipping when I sell to an out-of-state buyer?

Usually the buyer, but agree on it in writing.

Should I remove my license plates?

Many states require it. Check your state's rules.

Source: every broker and carrier's operating authority, safety rating, and insurance status is public record — verify any company for free at the FMCSA SAFER System.

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