Selling and trading in are both good options when you need cash for your used car.

When you sell your vehicle to a private party, typically, you'll receive more money than when trading in. But a private sale can be time-consuming and may take weeks or even months before you find a buyer.

When you sell a car, you have to clean it up, fix any mechanical issues, take photos, and post advertisements. Then you'll need to answer calls from prospective buyers, agree on a sales price, and meet with them in a public place for a test drive and pick up. 

Though selling could net you more money, the extra work may not be worth it.

Conversely, trading in your car is simple and easy. All you have to do is field offers, decide on accepting one, then the trade-in value to put toward a new-to-you vehicle. Instead of many hours, days and weeks, you can complete a trade-in the same day, then drive off in the car of your choice.

When you're ready to sell your used car, Shift makes it easy. All you'll have to do is enter the make, model, year, and mileage on Shift's easy-to-use website, and you'll instantly receive a purchase offer that's valid for seven days. You can get a fair offer, better than at the dealership, driven by powerful machine learning algorithms and tons of data. From sports cars to SUVs, Shift has a wide selection of fully-inspected cars located across the country. You can buy any of Shift's cars directly online from the comfort of your home, know it has no hidden issues (from our 150-point inspection) and get a fair, up-front price.

Step 1: Gather your documents

To ensure your sale's above board and meets all rules and regulations, you'll need to collect various paperwork. 

Your car's title shows you're the registered owner and is transferred to the new one when the transaction's complete. 

Information like a previous bill of sale, your car insurance card, and your driver's license can further illustrate that you're a trustworthy seller. 

The original sticker from when you first purchased your vehicle contains detailed information about options and equipment and has the chance to raise its value on the used market. 

To reassure prospective buyers, having a stack of service records shows the vehicle's been well cared for and ready for many more miles of reliable driving. 

And to demonstrate your used car's clean history, a report from trusted online sources like Carfax or Autocheck shows information like previous owners and locations, odometer readings, accidents, or title issues.

Step 2: Do your research

You may believe your car to be an excellent vehicle worthy of good money. But your opinion could be different from the current used car market.

That's why before setting a cost for your used vehicle, it helps to utilize online research tools like Kelley Blue Book or the National Auto Dealers Association (NADA) for accurate car prices. 

You can enter your make, model, VIN, year, mileage, options, and overall condition on either website, then view its automotive market value. 

Having a good idea of your car's value helps set a realistic asking price that potential buyers won't question. 

If you're like most car buyers, you'll want to finance your purchase. But though buying a new vehicle can be fun, financing can sometimes feel like a hassle. Never fear. Shift works with a network of trusted lenders, so you get the best deal on financing. Applying for financing with Shift is quick and simple, with no cost or obligation. And most applicants receive approval within minutes instead of days. Financing with Shift is so convenient that nine out of 10 customers choose us when they need a loan.

Step 3: Wash and tune it up

A vehicle that’s well cared for looks better as it cruises down the road, and it's no different when it comes time to sell. 

Giving your vehicle a nice cleaning, both inside and out, puts it in the best condition for pictures and can help catch serious buyers' attention.

How about under the hood? If any nagging mechanical issues exist, having them taken care of ahead of time assures sales prospects of your car's overall condition.

Step 4: Post ads

You can make your vehicle stand out with clear photos of multiple views of the exterior, interior, and under the hood, and a description detailing its options and condition.

Mentioning popular options can reel in buyers, and touting your car's condition can give them peace of mind that it's reliable transportation. 

Buyers might be curious about why your vehicle's listed for sale, so mentioning this helps them understand the reason. 

You'll also need to state the price and acceptable forms of payment, like a cashier's check, cash offer, or personal check.

Upon completing the transaction, you'll want to obtain a bill of sale form from the DMV and enter the new owner's information. 

After you sell your current car and it's time for your next one, who can you trust for a quality used vehicle that stands the test of time? Whether you're after a Tesla or a Corvette, you'll get a fair price driven by powerful machine learning algorithms and tons of data at Shift. And with Shift's best in industry service contracts, you know your vehicle's good to go mile after mile. With a Shift Vehicle Protection Plan, not only are essential components like the engine and transmission covered, but you also receive roadside assistance. Wherever you happen to be in the continental U.S., Alaska, Hawaii, or Canada, help is just a phone call away, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Though selling your car takes a good amount of work, taking specific steps helps you receive the most funds in return.

Ensuring any mechanical issues are taken care of, giving it a wash and vacuum, and taking many photos helps show buyers your vehicle's a worthy purchase.

Don't feel like going through the extra steps needed to sell your car privately? Remember, trading in is also a sensible option. You can complete the process quickly and drive off in your next vehicle the same day when you trade in.