4 min read
You've got your offer. You've accepted it. Now pickup day is coming and you're wondering, "okay, what actually happens?"
It's a fair question. Selling your car online can feel a little abstract until someone actually shows up to take it. The whole process is pretty low-key, but knowing what to expect makes it even easier. Here's exactly what goes down on pickup day, start to finish.
Before your pickup partner arrives
You'll get a heads-up when your pickup is scheduled. On the day of, your carrier will contact you when they're on their way. Make sure you have these ready before they arrive:
- Your signed title — This is the most important thing. If the title isn't signed and ready to hand over, the pickup can't happen. Double-check that the name on the title matches your ID.
- Your photo ID — A driver's license works.
- Your keys — All of them, if you have more than one set.
- Personal items removed from the car — Check the glovebox, center console, under the seats, and the trunk. Once the car leaves, it's gone.
If your car doesn't run, make sure it's accessible. The carrier needs to be able to load it, so clear any obstructions and let them know in advance if it's in a tight spot.
When your carrier arrives
Your carrier will do a quick inspection of the car to confirm it matches what was described when you got your offer. This isn't a full-blown audit. They're mostly checking that the car is what you said it was, same condition, same major components.
What if there are differences? If the condition of the car is significantly different from what was described (missing parts that weren't disclosed, major damage not mentioned), the offer may be adjusted at pickup. Being upfront when you get your offer saves everyone time.
The inspection is quick. Most sellers say it takes just a few minutes.
Getting paid
Once the inspection is done and the title is signed over, you get paid. Peddle pays by check, right there at pickup. You hand over the keys and the title. Your carrier hands you a check. That's it.
Keep in mind that your carrier doesn't set your payment amount. The check amount matches your accepted offer (adjusted only if the car's condition was different than described).
After the car leaves
File a release of liability with your state DMV after the pickup. This officially removes you from legal responsibility for the car. It's a quick online form in most states and takes just a few minutes. Don't skip this step.
What if something goes wrong on pickup day?
It's rare, but things happen. If your carrier is running late, you'll typically hear from them. If you have any issues or questions on pickup day, Peddle's support team is reachable and will help you sort it out.
The most common issues on pickup day are avoidable: missing title, car that's inaccessible, or a condition mismatch. Handling those things in advance makes for a smooth handoff.
Wrapping it up: pickup day is the easy part
Most sellers are surprised by how fast and low-key pickup day is. Have your title signed, your keys ready, and your stuff out of the car. Your carrier shows up, does a quick look, and pays you on the spot. Start to finish, you're usually done in under 30 minutes.
Get your instant offer from Peddle today and get pickup scheduled on your timeline.