The typical timeline
Step 1 — The initial call (5 to 15 minutes)
You call us with the registration, mileage, postcode and condition. We ask a few questions, check the market and give you an honest initial estimate. If the estimate is in the right area, we arrange a visit.
Step 2 — Arranging the visit (same day or next day)
We visit you at home or an agreed location. In most cases we can visit within 24 hours, and often the same day if you call in the morning. We confirm a time that suits you.
Step 3 — The inspection (30 to 60 minutes)
We carry out a thorough inspection — exterior, interior, mechanicals, electrics and a history check. For straightforward cars in the described condition, this takes around 30 minutes. For more complex cases it may take longer.
Step 4 — The offer and decision (as long as you need)
We present the final offer and explain it clearly. There is no time pressure — you can take as long as you need to decide. Most people decide on the spot. If you want to sleep on it, that is fine too.
Step 5 — Paperwork and payment (15 to 30 minutes)
If you accept, we complete the V5C together, you keep the yellow slip and we initiate the bank transfer. Payment typically arrives in your account within minutes.
How quickly can it happen?
If you call first thing in the morning and everything is straightforward, the car can be sold and paid for the same day. The total process from first call to cleared funds — for a typical vehicle — can be completed in as little as three to four hours.
What can slow things down?
- Outstanding finance that needs to be settled with the lender — allow an extra day for this
- Missing V5C — you may need to apply for a replacement from DVLA
- Vehicles requiring additional research due to unusual specification or history
- Access issues for collection of non-running vehicles
Compared to selling privately
The average private car sale in the UK takes three to six weeks from listing to completion. That includes weeks of enquiries, no-shows, test drives and payment uncertainty. Our process eliminates all of that.