When the time comes to sell your classic car, choosing between private sale and dealer consignment significantly impacts your final proceeds, timeline, and overall experience. Each approach offers distinct advantages depending on your priorities and circumstances.
Private Sale: Maximum Return, Maximum Effort
The Financial Advantage
Selling privately typically nets 10-20% more than dealer transactions. You avoid dealer markup and consignment fees, keeping the full sale price minus minimal advertising costs. For a $50,000 vehicle, that difference easily exceeds $5,000.
What You’ll Handle
- Creating compelling listings with quality photography
- Fielding inquiries from serious buyers and tire-kickers
- Arranging and conducting test drives
- Negotiating price and terms
- Managing payment securely (avoiding scams)
- Handling title transfer and documentation
Time Investment
Expect 4-12 weeks for most private sales, though desirable vehicles in strong markets sell faster. You’ll invest significant time responding to inquiries and showing the car—plan for this commitment before listing.
Best Suited For
- Sellers with time flexibility and patience
- Desirable vehicles that generate strong buyer interest
- Sellers comfortable with negotiation and paperwork
- Cars with complete documentation supporting asking prices
Dealer Consignment: Convenience at a Cost
The Service Package
Dealers handle everything: professional photography, marketing, buyer screening, negotiations, financing arrangements, and paperwork. You drop off the car and wait for a check.
Fee Structures
- Commission-based: Typically 8-15% of sale price
- Flat fee: Some dealers charge fixed amounts regardless of sale price
- Tiered rates: Lower percentages for higher-value vehicles
Additional Considerations
Read consignment agreements carefully. Understand:
- Minimum sale prices and approval requirements
- Timeline expectations and contract length
- Insurance coverage while in dealer possession
- Marketing commitments and expenses
- What happens if the car doesn’t sell
Best Suited For
- Sellers prioritizing convenience over maximum return
- High-value vehicles benefiting from dealer credibility
- Sellers lacking time for buyer interactions
- Cars needing exposure to dealer networks and buyer bases
Hybrid Approaches
Online Auctions
Platforms like Bring a Trailer offer middle-ground solutions—you maintain control while accessing large buyer pools. Fees are lower than traditional dealers but the format handles much of the sales process.
Dealer Purchase
Some dealers buy outright rather than consigning. You’ll receive less than retail value, but transactions complete immediately with guaranteed payment. Useful when speed matters most.
Making Your Decision
Calculate your real costs for each approach:
- Estimate realistic sale prices for private vs. dealer channels
- Subtract all fees, commissions, and advertising costs
- Factor in the value of your time
- Consider risk tolerance—private sales carry more uncertainty
For most collector cars, private sales return more money but require genuine commitment. If your time has significant value or you’re uncomfortable with sales negotiations, dealer consignment earns its fees through convenience and expertise.
