People around the world win vehicles in Copart’s all-online auctions. In fact, about 40% of our transactions in the US come from places like Latin America, Eastern Europe, and Africa.
The buying experience works a bit differently for global Members. Let’s take a look at what international buyers need to know about bidding & winning on Copart, based on some of the most frequent questions we get asked.
How Do International Buyers Register on Copart?
The registration requirements for international buyers and domestic buyers are very similar. Every Member will need to upload some form of personal identification, like a driver’s license, passport, or other secure government-issued ID. This helps cut down on fraudulent buyers and identity thefts.
US states that require a dealer’s license to bid in online auto auctions recognize dealer licenses from other countries like they do licenses from other states. The laws of the state where a vehicle is located determine the requirements to be able to bid.
International buyers need to upload a notarized image of their dealer’s license translated into English to Copart just like buyers in the US.
Who Can Help Me If I Don’t Have All the Required Credentials?
One of the easiest ways for international buyers to get vehicles from the US is through one of our Copart Lounges and Certified Resellers. They can assist with the entire process of registering, searching, bidding, buying, paying, and shipping.
In addition, some Brokers who hold the proper permits and documentation will work with international buyers. Unlicensed international buyers will need to check with individual Brokers to find out which ones can help them buy from the US.
International buyers can also take advantage of our Buy It Now vehicles where they can purchase a vehicle for a set asking price or make a counteroffer and see if the Seller accepts it. Often such sales don’t require a dealer’s license.
How Can International Buyers Pay for Their Vehicles?
Copart recommends using wire transfers to pay for your vehicles, services and fees when you’re buying from outside the US. Paying this way will let you pay faster and enjoy the Secured Funds discount. On the Payments Due page, just select the vehicles you want to pay for, and then choose Wire Transfer as your form of payment. The system will walk you through the process and give you a code number to include on your transfer documents.
International buyers can also use other forms of payment such as credit/debit cards and Global Pay X by Western Union Business Solutions. For more information and the full list of ways to pay, visit Copart.com/Payment.
How Can I Get Vehicles Shipped to Me Internationally?
Our most common question from international buyers is how they get vehicles from the US to their home country.
Copart works with several reputable international shipping companies and freight forwarders who can handle the logistics of delivering vehicles, complying with the laws of the receiving country, and clearing cars through customs.
International buyers can get a general estimate on international shipping by using the tool underneath the photos on all vehicle listing pages. Just select International Shipping and enter the requested information.
You’re also free to find and hire your own company, but be aware some less-than-reputable outfits exist. You may also need to arrange transportation from the Copart location to the shipping company’s business address. A good option is Copart Delivery.
How Do I Get the Titles for My Vehicles I Buy from Copart?
Most countries require title documents to legally import vehicles. You can have your transporter or shipping company pick up the title(s) when they pick up your vehicle(s). You just need to sign, and in some states have notarized, a Limited Power of Attorney. Just remember that Copart charges a $20 service fee when people pick up titles in person.
Some international Members take advantage of Copart’s title mailing services. While we can’t ship titles internationally, some buyers get a PO Box or virtual office address. Then they have the titles forwarded to them through shipping companies like DHL and FedEx.
Parting Thoughts
As a global leader in all-online auto auctions, Copart is the perfect place to find the vehicles that fit your needs, in almost any condition. We want to make it as easy as we can for our valued international Members to bid and win. We hope the answers to these questions help you in your automotive business and adventures.
