8-step checklist to sell cars virtually

By David Toscano, Trade Content Editor, carsales.com.au

Consider how you can adapt your business with the following initiatives and how you can publicise them across your auto-responses, comments, photo gallery, social media channels and website.

1. Your business hours

Are you open for business? Make buyers aware when you have staff available to respond to queries and confirm you’re open for business.

2. Your vehicle hygiene policy

In your policy statement, outline your commitment to maintaining the highest level of hygiene standard for customers and staff at your dealership.

3. Add walk-around/tours of the car video on your listings

Video can be added to your listings at no extra cost. Make sure the car is positioned appropriately and you can film from a range of angles. Vertical format works best to share on social.

4. No-haggle pricing

Today’s buyers are well informed and understand a great deal when they see one. They’re also less likely to engage in lengthy negotiation and back and forth in this period.

5. Prompt (less than 30 minutes) enquiry response time

Aim to contact all buyers as soon as possible. And make sure you use the same communication channel they used — answer an email with an email; a text with text.

6. Offer video chat and tour

Live video gives you the ability to build trust, answer the buyer’s queries or highlight features they are most interested in.

7. Phone deposits

Take sales administrative tasks online where possible.

8.Home test drives, trade-in appraisals and delivery

Mobilising your services can fast track a buyer’s purchase journey in this period.