In today’s market, more and more people are looking to sell their used cars rather than trading them in. Two popular online used car marketplaces, GiveMeTheVin and Carvana, make it easy to get a competitive offer without even leaving your house.
But which one should you choose when it’s time to sell your wheels?
This comprehensive guide examines the key differences between GiveMeTheVin and Carvana to help you decide which will give you the best value for your vehicle.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Category | GiveMeTheVin | Carvana |
| Convenience | Entirely online process | In-person pickup/dropoff required |
| Offer Value | Guaranteed quotes based on market value | Initial quote may change after inspection |
| Vehicle Criteria | Flexible standards, modified cars accepted | Stricter requirements for condition and mileage |
| Payment Timeline | 1-2 days after pickup | Few business days after pickup |
| Additional Perks | None | Large used car inventory, delivery services |
Key Takeaways:
- GiveMeTheVin offers a faster, more convenient process with guaranteed quotes upfront. Better option if you want to sell quickly with minimal effort.
- Carvana provides a robust used car marketplace and white-glove delivery services. Ideal if you need to purchase another vehicle.
- Both platforms tend to offer significantly more money compared to trading in at a dealership.
- Shop around for quotes from multiple buyers to maximize your car’s value. GiveMeTheVin and Carvana are top options.
- Consider factors like payment timeline, vehicle criteria, and convenience based on your needs.
- For the best deal, get quotes from GiveMeTheVin, Carvana, and CarMax to compare.
Overview of GiveMeTheVin
GiveMeTheVin is an online used car buying service that provides guaranteed offers for your vehicle. To get a cash offer, you simply enter your VIN or license plate number on their website.
Within seconds, you’ll receive a real offer based on market demand in your area.
Some key things to know about GiveMeTheVin:
- Convenience: The entire process from offer to payment can be completed online without visiting a store. Offers are valid for 7 days so there’s no high-pressure sales tactics.
- Flexible pickup: GiveMeTheVin handles pickup and title transfer for free. You can schedule based on what suits your schedule.
- Payment options: You’ll receive payment as soon as 1-2 days after pickup. Get paid by direct deposit, paper check, or PayPal.
- Modified vehicles accepted: Lifted, tuned, and customized vehicles are eligible for offers from GiveMeTheVin. They cater to car enthusiasts.
Overview of Carvana
Carvana is one of the largest online used car retailers.
Their website lets you get a quick offer for your car, and even purchase your next vehicle. Here’s an overview:
- Expanded offerings: Carvana has a huge vehicle inventory, so you can easily shop for your next car on their site.
- White glove delivery: Purchased vehicles are delivered with a bow on top! Delivery drivers will show you how to use features and take your old car if you’re trading.
- 7-day return policy: Don’t like your Carvana purchase? Return it hassle-free within 7 days and get a full refund.
- Car Vending Machines: Carvana has auto vending machines in major cities, allowing you to pick up your vehicle 24/7. It’s like a giant vending machine for cars!
Factors To Consider When Selling Your Car
When deciding between Carvana and GiveMeTheVin, keep these key factors in mind:
- Convenience
GiveMeTheVin: The entire sales process can be completed online in a matter of days. No need to visit a physical location.
Carvana: You’ll need to visit a Car Vending Machine for pickup/dropoff, or arrange home delivery.
- Value of Offer
GiveMeTheVin: Guaranteed quote based on real market value. The company says they beat dealership trade-in quotes.
Carvana: Online quotes provided, but final offer determined at pickup. Offers may be higher or lower than initial quote.
- Vehicle Condition
GiveMeTheVin: Has flexible criteria regarding wear, modifications, and mileage. More likely to accept vehicles “as is.”
Carvana: Has stricter requirements for vehicle condition and mileage limits. Cars must pass a 150-point inspection.
- Payment Timeline
GiveMeTheVin: Payment issued 1-2 days after pickup.
Carvana: Payment processed after final inspection, typically within a few business days.
- Additional Perks
GiveMeTheVin: No extra perks offered. Purely a way to sell your car quickly.
Carvana: Offers a huge used car inventory and delivery services. One-stop shop if you need another vehicle.
Also Read: Comparison of Customer Buyout And Dealer Buyout.
Pros of Selling to GiveMeTheVin
Here are some of the biggest advantages of using GiveMeTheVin over Carvana:
- Quick and convenient process. No need to go to a physical location. The entire sales process can be completed online.
- Get paid fast. You’ll receive quick payment via direct deposit, PayPal, or check. Funds issued 1-2 days after pickup.
- Guaranteed quotes. The initial offer is guaranteed as long as nothing changes about your vehicle’s condition. No surprises at pickup time.
- Flexible vehicle criteria. GiveMeTheVin accepts modified, tuned, and customized vehicles. Also flexible for higher mileage.
- No transportation needed. Coordinate free pickup at your location. No need to transport your car to a vending machine or dealer.
Cons of Selling to GiveMeTheVin
While GiveMeTheVin offers many perks, there are some downsides to consider as well:
- No option to buy your next car. GiveMeTheVin focuses solely on buying vehicles from consumers. You’ll need to purchase your replacement separately.
- Strict 7-day quote limit. After 7 days, you’ll need to get a new quote which may change based on market conditions.
- No “white glove” service. The experience is convenient but very hands-off. Don’t expect concierge delivery services.
- Limited locations. GiveMeTheVin currently operates in select locations. Check availability for your area before getting a quote.
- No returns or inspections. The offer is final once your car is picked up. Make sure to disclose any issues ahead of time.
Pros of Selling to Carvana
Carvana has its own set of advantages compared to GiveMeTheVin:
- Huge selection of vehicles. Browse thousands of cars that can be delivered straight to your door. The perfect one-stop shop to replace your current ride.
- Experience car delivery. Carvana offers “white glove” delivery services. Test drive your new car at home for 7 days.
- Delayed payment helps avoid a car loan. Carvana pays off your old car loan. You don’t need a second auto loan before your current one is settled.
- Thorough inspections. Carvana puts every car through a 150-point inspection and extensive reconditioning process before listing. Higher quality cars.
- Nationwide services. Carvana operates in most U.S. states. Very wide service area and selection of pickup/drop-off locations.
Cons of Selling to Carvana
On the other hand, here are the major drawbacks of selling to Carvana instead of GiveMeTheVin:
- Stricter vehicle criteria. Carvana has mileage limits and more stringent requirements for wear and damage. Modifications also not allowed.
- Longer process. It takes more time to get a final offer, complete the inspection, and receive payment from Carvana.
- In-person pickup/dropoff. You’ll need to transport your car to a vending machine location or arrange home pickup. Less convenient than GiveMeTheVin.
- Potentially lower offer. The initial Carvana quote may change after the in-person appraisal and inspection. Some report offers being reduced.
- Delayed payment. It takes a few business days to receive your payment after Carvana takes possession of the car.
Also Read: Comparison of Carvana And ALgo Car Trading Platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
GiveMeTheVin is known for providing highly competitive offers compared to Carvana. Since their quotes are guaranteed upfront, you can be confident you’re getting top dollar without any surprises later in the process. Many reviewers state GiveMeTheVin offered several hundred dollars more for their car than Carvana quoted.
CarMax and Carvana tend to be neck-and-neck when it comes to offer amounts. Both advertise that they beat typical dealership trade-in offers. On average, CarMax may provide slightly higher quotes for very new cars with ultra low mileage, while Carvanacompetes more closely for older, higher mileage vehicles. For the best value, it’s wise to get quotes from both Carvana and CarMax.
Most experts recommend selling to Carvana rather than trading in your car if you want to maximize its value. Dealerships need to make a profit when reselling your trade-in, so they offer less than market value. Carvana and other online buyers can provide quotes closer to the car’s retail value. Only trade-in if you need to lower the sales tax on your next car purchase.
As with any company, Carvana has received some complaints along with praise. Some common issues include: long delays to receive title/registration, challenges arranging pickup, and vehicles arriving with undisclosed mechanical problems or cosmetic damage. However, many more customers report smooth, satisfactory experiences with great customer service.
The Bottom Line
When comparing GiveMeTheVin and Carvana, there are excellent reasons to choose either platform over a dealership trade-in. GiveMeTheVin offers convenience, speed, and the ability to sell modified cars easily. Carvana is the way to go for a seamless transition into your next vehicle.
Evaluate your priorities to pick the best cash offer for your needs. Both services beat trading in to a dealership.
