Buying From Out of State
A lot of my buyers never set foot in Florida. Here’s how it generally works, what to ask, and what I’ll confirm for you in writing before you commit.
Why people buy from me from out of state
Usually it’s because the exact vehicle they want — a specific Corvette color and package, a Silverado with the right trailering setup, a Suburban in a certain trim — is here and not near them. Sometimes it’s because they want to work with one person who answers by text and puts everything in writing. I’m Nick Goglucci, a Broker and Product Specialist at Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet Pompano Beach, 1801 W. Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach, FL 33069. The dealership pays me; there is no broker fee for you.
Step by step
1. Pick the vehicle. Browse Corvettes, Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban or pre-owned, or ask me to find something specific. I’ll send extra photos and a video walk-around if you ask, and for pre-owned vehicles I’ll share what history information is available.
2. Get a written, itemized quote. Price, dealer fees, and how taxes and registration will be handled for your state. Nothing is final until you’ve seen it in writing.
3. Financing or payment. You can finance through the dealership’s lenders, bring your own bank or credit union approval, or pay cash. If you’re using your own lender, have them talk to us early — some lenders have rules about out-of-state purchases.
4. Paperwork. Much of it can usually be handled remotely; some documents may need original signatures or notarization depending on your state and lender. I’ll tell you exactly what’s needed for your deal.
5. Delivery. You can fly in and drive it home, or have it shipped by a transport company. I’ll help you get shipping quotes; open and enclosed carriers are both options, and the cost depends on distance and the carrier. Shipping is arranged and paid separately unless we agree otherwise in writing.
Sales tax and registration — how it generally works
I’m not going to quote you a tax number on a web page, because it depends on your state, sometimes your county or city, and the specifics of the deal. Here’s the general picture:
- You register the vehicle in your home state, not in Florida, if that’s where you live and the car is going.
- Sales tax is generally tied to where the vehicle will be registered. Depending on your state, the dealership may collect some or all of it at signing, or you may pay it to your state when you register. Florida has its own rules and paperwork for vehicles sold to nonresidents, and the dealership’s title office handles those forms.
- Temporary tags. Usually you’ll get a temporary tag so the vehicle can be driven or transported legally until you register it at home.
- Title. If you’re financing, the lender typically holds the title. If you’re paying cash, the title or the paperwork to get one is sent to you or your DMV.
- Emissions and inspections are set by your state. If your state has special requirements, check them before you buy — I’m happy to look at the vehicle’s emissions label for you.
Before you sign, I’ll get you the exact tax and registration handling for your state from our title office, in writing. And you should always double-check with your own state’s DMV or tax office if anything is unclear.
Trading in from out of state
It’s possible, but it takes more coordination: photos, VIN, mileage, payoff information and getting the vehicle here. I’ll give you an honest appraisal based on what I can verify, and I won’t promise a number I can’t stand behind. Sometimes selling locally makes more sense, and I’ll tell you if I think so.
Factory orders
If you want a Corvette or another Chevy built exactly your way, I can help you with a factory order and keep you updated along the way. I can’t promise a build or delivery date, but I’ll pass on what I know as I learn it.
Leasing from out of state
Leases have extra rules because the leasing company owns the vehicle and registers it where you live. Not every lease program works in every state. Tell me your state and I’ll check before we get too far. My lease & loan guide covers the general terms.
Don’t see the one you want?
Tell me the trim, color and must-haves. I’ll search, or help you with a factory order — and send the numbers in writing.