More and more buyers choose to send a vehicle transport company to collect cars, vans and motorbikes that they buy privately. As a seller, this can be very convenient, as you do not need to travel or arrange any delivery yourself.

Here is a simple guide for private sellers in the UK on how vehicle transport works and how to prepare for collection day.

Why buyers use transport instead of collecting in person

Buyers choose car transport for many reasons:

• They live far away in another part of the UK
• They do not have time to travel and drive back
• The vehicle is a non runner or has no MOT or tax
• They prefer not to drive an unknown car a long distance

For sellers, this is often good news, because the vehicle is collected from your door at an agreed time.

What information the buyer and transporter need from you

To make the process smooth, the buyer and transport company will need:

• Your full name and mobile number
• Collection address with postcode
• Parking or access details for your street
• Information about the vehicle condition, including if it is a non runner
• Any special points, for example very low ground clearance or body kits

Clear information helps the transporter bring the right truck, ramps and straps.

How to prepare the vehicle before collection

Before the truck arrives, you can save time and avoid problems by:

• Removing your personal belongings from the car or bike
• Checking that there is fuel for short manoeuvres if the vehicle runs
• Making sure the battery is not completely flat if possible
• Moving other cars so that the vehicle is not blocked in
• Having all keys and any remote fobs ready

If the vehicle is a non runner, be open and honest about this so the driver can plan how to load it safely.

Documents and paperwork for the sale

In the UK, when selling a vehicle privately you normally provide:

• The correct part of the V5C logbook or submit the details online
• Any service history and invoices you choose to pass on
• Manuals and spare keys if available

Agree with the buyer in advance how you will handle payment and the V5C transfer, so you are both clear before the transporter arrives.

What happens when the transporter arrives

On collection day, the driver will usually:

• Introduce themselves and confirm the buyer name
• Walk around the vehicle and check its condition
• Take photos of the car or bike before loading
• Load and secure the vehicle on the truck or trailer
• Ask you to sign a collection or handover note

You can also take your own photos for your records. This protects both the seller and the buyer.

How to deal with small issues on the day

If something unexpected happens, for example the car will not start or a tyre is flat, stay calm and explain the situation to the driver. Professional vehicle transport providers are used to dealing with non runners.

In some cases, loading may take longer or require a different method, but with honest communication it is usually still possible.

Benefits of transport for private sellers

Allowing the buyer to use vehicle delivery has several benefits for you:

• You do not need to travel or arrange delivery yourself
• The vehicle leaves your driveway at an agreed time
• The buyer handles the cost and organisation of transport
• The driver documents the condition at collection

This makes the end of the sale simple and stress free.

Selling privately with less hassle

If a buyer suggests using a vehicle transport company in the UK, it is usually a positive sign that they are serious and organised. By preparing the vehicle, documents and access, you can complete the handover quickly and confidently when the truck arrives.