Used Car Inventory Basics

Optimal inventory levels are critical in any retail business and the used car industry is no different

. Used vehicle inventory management, however, is not without its challenges. Although new car sales have recently started to improve, lower sales over the last couple years, an uncertain national economy and price-conscious consumers have changed the dynamics of finding and maintaining used car inventory. Used cars sales managers have a variety of options to locate the best inventory in this competitive market. Put a combination of tactics to work for you.

Shop Locally

As soon as a car or truck leaves your lot, there should be another ready to take its place. Where did that buyer find you? Was it through your print or online advertising? Were they drawn in by your inventory display and signage? Those are also important places for you to visit to help restock your used car inventory. As long as newspapers and magazines are printed, there will be used car listings available. With a little time and some negotiating skills, good used cars can be purchased directly from owners. Widen your search by scanning classified ads in papers from neighboring cities or states. Keep your eyes open wherever you go.

Many owners will advertise their vehicle for sale with just a sign in the window and a telephone number to call. Some park their cars in front of their home or place of business. All you have to do is spot them.

Shop Auto Auctions

Previously, consumer lease returns, fleet and rental cars, and new car trade-ins have provided a steady supply of pre-owned vehicles to recycle on the dealer's used car lots. This changed a few years ago with the economy; making used car inventory harder to find. Fortunately, auto auctions are easily found.

Some auto auctions specialize in specific types of vehicles, such as repossessions, government or police seizures. Others may specialize in vehicles abandoned at impound lots or charity donation. Some even post their pre-auction inventory online or promote dealer only sales. Make note of the auto auctions in your local area and shop them regularly. You never know when just the right car or truck for a customer will come along.

Shop Online

Over the last couple years as the competition increased for late model used cars and trucks more dealers and remarketers are using the Internet to expand their trading zone. They are purchasing premium inventory from auto auctions thousands of miles outside their normal trading radius. West Coast, Arizona and Nevada auto auctions, in particular, have become especially attractive to Midwest and Texas dealers looking for well-equipped late model vehicles, as well as hybrid SUVs and crossovers now entering the used car market for the first time. Once a used car sales manager purchases vehicles online, they are taking advantage of progressive auto transport companies who are making it easier to transport cars cross country. A new generation of car haulers are using the power and speed of the Internet to make transporting vehicles from auto auction easier and more economical than ever before. By offering a mix of speedy truck and economical rail service options, the best auto transport companies can quickly and economically move vehicles wherever they need to go. Dealers can also receive instant 24/7 online price quotes and estimated transit time for door-to-door pickup and delivery anywhere in the country.

Maintaining optimal inventory levels of quality, affordable late-model cars and trucks can be challenging. Sales can suffer without the right cars on the lot. Shop local, visit auto auctions and use the Internet to secure and maintain optimal levels for your used car inventory.

by: Wally Koster

POST COMMENT

PROFESSIONAL AND AFFORDABLE POSTAGE USING THE SMART STAMP LABLES Three Mobile Broadband Deals Major Network That Provide Broadband With High Speeds Rob Ward Is A Professional In Field Of Accounting And Auditing 7 Tips For A Safe Latin America Vacation Top Beach Vacations On Christmas Stencils: Getting The Larger Picture On Traffic And Parking Signs How To Reinforce Your Garage Door This Season, Plan Your Ski Vacation With Online Vendors Use Excel To Make Sure You'll Be Warm On Your Vacation Determine If A Car Title Loan Is Right For You Affordable and Well-liked Food as Christmas Gifts Tf Green Parking - Why Providence Airport Is A Great Alternative To Boston Airport Aftermarket Exhaust Parts: Increase The Appeal And Performance Of Your Vehicle