Buying your dream car should not be impossible just because of the pandemic. It’s true that people need to shelter in place during the pandemic as part of various protocols for safety. However, they can also do things as normal — with a few adjustments made.
One of these adjustments is to do things as much as they can online. Companies have been in work-from-home arrangements with their employees while other establishments are trying to complete most of their deals online. In the case of car dealerships, buyers from other places can still get air cargo services to deliver whole vehicles or parts to wherever they might be living.
Of course, there are certain safety protocols to observe for people buying auto-parts or whole cars from other places. Here’s how you can buy those parts while staying as safe as you can:
From the other side: How to Sell a Car
Buyers could’ve heard all kinds of advice on how to buy car parts during a pandemic, from purchasing online to disinfecting their products once it arrives. This one is for the sellers. There are completely different guidelines to follow when you’re selling a car as opposed to buying it.
For example, the company Volvo is using technology to help offset the hurdles being thrown by the pandemic. There is white-glove assistance personnel which is under the Volvo Concierge. This helps buyers pick the best of their inventory without having to actually be present on site.
With this virtual shop in place, it’s believed that this technology will spill over at the conclusion of the pandemic. They’ll also be able to schedule delivery of vehicles and service with home pickup through the use of the concierge.
Some deals are too good to be true
It’s understandable that sellers are at a loss during the pandemic. A year ago, when the pandemic started, people found themselves trying to make sales in a bleak market. The sudden closure of industries and companies made it hard for buyers to pay profit, however.
While some dealerships have been able to offer virtual services, most that didn’t were forced to shut down — for the time being, or for good, no one knew. Some dealerships were forced to sell at a loss, but even then, some deals appear to be too good to be true.
Even during the pandemic, and with a lot of dealerships trying to make back what they lost, the rules still apply when buying a car.
Efficiency and safety are combined
For those buying their first car during this time, it’s a highly efficient experience. From choosing the model to getting it delivered at home, people will find that the process is streamlined. Dealerships are also making sure that they’re helping customers spend less time dealing with paperwork and the tedium of trying to find the right model.
Cars will also be delivered to the buyers’ doorstep, even for a test drive. There’s absolutely no contact between the customer and the dealership. Cars will be delivered through cargo or through valet services, depending on whether you’re buying overseas or locally.
Buyers should also act fast
Even during the pandemic, buyers should always jump the gun. Sellers will often look for the best offer and won’t always wait around for the buyer to finish making up their minds.
Buyers should have a specific idea upfront of the car model and make they are looking for. Dealerships will offer a fair and competitive price, especially during the pandemic. Don’t expect too much, though. Experts say this often leads to their car of choice being sold off before they finish deciding.
There have been instances where the client was encouraged to buy the car, only to take too long shopping around. The original car got sold before any better offers could be found, leaving clients looking for deals that could end up not being the ones they want originally.
Flexibility is the name of the game during the pandemic
Some makes and models are hard to find during normal times. What more during the pandemic? That’s why those in the market for cars should always have flexibility in mind when shopping around. Consider a make and model, but if it’s not available, be open to looking for similar models in other brands. Buyers often end up with a bonus in better prices and significant rebates because of this.
Business goes on, just like life, even during a pandemic. Consider buying online and following safety protocols when shopping around for vehicles or auto parts. The best things to care about these days are your health and safety.