When and how do I get paid after my car sells?

Once your car is sold and the sale is confirmed, payment is typically processed within 48 hours. The dealer securely handles the transfer, and everything is tracked through Apany. This is a key part of our secure consignment process � simple, secure, and with no fees or deductions to you.

What happens if my car doesn't sell within the agreed consignment period?

If your car doesn�t sell within the agreed period, you can extend the consignment with the dealer, possibly revising the sales approach or your desired payout. Alternatively, you may choose to have your car returned to you. The dealer will provide feedback to help guide your decision.

Can I consign a car that still has outstanding finance (e.g. HP or PCP)?

Yes, you can. The dealer will work with you to settle the finance with the lender directly from the sale proceeds. You will then receive any remaining balance. If the finance owed exceeds your payout, you will need to cover the difference. The dealer will guide you through this as part of the consignment agreement.

Do I need to prepare my car extensively before handing it over for consignment?

It�s helpful if your car is clean and presentable, but professional detailing or repairs are generally not required. Our dealers handle professional cleaning, highquality photography, and minor cosmetic work as part of their service to maximise your car�s appeal to buyers.

Is my car safe during the consignment period?

Yes, absolutely. Your car is fully protected. All dealers within the Apany network confirm they hold comprehensive motor trade insurance covering consigned vehicles. We verify this as part of our dealer vetting process. You remain the legal owner of the car until the sale is finalised and payment is received.

Do you handle DVLA paperwork when my car sells?

In a consignment sale, you remain the registered keeper until the vehicle is sold. Once a buyer is found, the dealer will usually complete the DVLA keeper change with the new owner and guide you through any remaining steps. It�s important to make sure this is done promptly, and you should always keep the relevant section of the V5C logbook for your records.

Can I consign a car that isn�t ULEZ-compliant?

Yes, you can. However, ULEZ compliance can affect your car�s desirability and market value, especially in London and other cities with clean air zones. Our dealers will provide advice on the best marketing strategy.

Can I keep my private number plate if I consign my car?

Yes. To keep your private (cherished) number plate, you must complete the retention process with the DVLA before your vehicle is sold. Your dealer can advise and help you on this, but the responsibility lies with you. Once retained, your vehicle will be assigned its original registration number for sale.

Where will my car be advertised for sale?

Your car will be advertised across multiple platforms to reach the widest possible audience. This typically includes the dealer�s own website, thirdparty automotive marketplaces such as AutoTrader and Motors, targeted social media campaigns, and sometimes print publications depending on the vehicle type.

Do you offer a guaranteed minimum payout?

Yes. When you consign your car with Apany, you set your desired payout upfront. If your car sells at this amount, you will receive it in full. Before the sale is completed, you and the dealer can agree to amend the payout in the portal. The final payment is confirmed once the sale is completed.

What types of cars do you accept for consignment on Apany?

Apany works with a broad range of vehicles, from nearly new hatchbacks and family SUVs to performance cars, classics, and luxury saloons. Our diverse dealer network ensures you�re matched with the right specialist to maximise your car�s value.

What is the difference between my desired payout, and the dealer's selling price?

Your desired payout is the net amount you receive after the dealer sells the car. The dealer's selling price is set higher to cover their commission, preparation costs, and profit, while still aiming to achieve your target payout.

Do I get more money with consignment versus part exchange?

Consignment may achieve a higher return than part exchange because dealers can advertise your car at a retail price to private buyers. However, consignment usually involves a longer selling process, and the final amount you receive will depend on factors such as your car�s condition, market demand, and how long it takes to sell.

What makes Apany different from other consignment services?

Apany stands out by allowing you to set your desired payout upfront, ensuring you receive exactly the amount you want. Our network of trusted dealers then add their margin on top when marketing your vehicle � meaning you face no hidden fees. Additionally, our platform offers transparent communication and easy online management throughout the entire sale process.

Can I still drive my car during the consignment period?

Usually, once your car is consigned, it remains with the dealer for storage, marketing, and viewings. If you require use of your vehicle during consignment, this can be discussed with the dealer prior to agreement but is generally uncommon.

What is ""Sale or Return"" and how does it compare to consignment?

'Sale or Return' is a term often used interchangeably with consignment. Both mean the dealer sells your car on your behalf while you retain ownership until the sale completes. This contrasts with a part exchange or instant sale where ownership transfers immediately, often for less money.

Should I sell my car on consignment?

Yes � selling on consignment connects you with professional dealers who expertly market your vehicle to a broad audience. Buyers trust dealer listings and are often willing to pay closer to true market value, helping you avoid lowball offers common in private sales. Consignment removes the typical hassles of selling because the dealer handles everything on your behalf with transparency and security throughout the entire process.

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Visual of a successful car sale through Apany's consignment service

*Illustration for demonstration purposes only

Set your payout. Dealers sell it.

A simple 3-step process from listing to payout, to selling your car!

List your car
Enter reg, mileage, condition, and the payout you expect. Upload photos of the car and service history.
Choose a dealer & go live
Dealers send proposals to sell your car. You choose the best one, and the dealer arranges handover and starts marketing.
We sell it & you get paid
Dealer handles enquiries, viewings, negotiation and paperwork. Payout by bank transfer 2–3 business days after sale completion.

Compare Your Options

Find the route that fits your goals. See how selling your car with a dealer on consignment compares with instant offers and private sale.

RECOMMENDED
Sell your car with Apany
Designed for strong value with less effort
- Potentially higher price
  experienced dealers handle marketing, viewings and negotiation
- Free to sell your car
  your car is listed on major car sites at no cost to you
- Payment after sale completion
  funds sent by the dealer by bank transfer
- More buyers can proceed
  FCA‑regulated dealers may offer finance and warranties (availability varies)
Instant Online Sale
Fast payout, price typically lower
- Often lower price
  speed is prioritised over achieving the best price
- Offer may be reduced
  online quotes are indicative and can change after inspection
- Limited negotiation
  take‑it‑or‑leave‑it pricing
- Not all cars accepted
  imported, modified or older vehicles may be declined
Selling Privately
High effort, you handle everything
- Most time and effort
  you handle marketing, enquiries, viewings and paperwork
- You manage safety and payment
  verify identity and handle funds transfer yourself
- No dealer finance or warranty
  can limit who can buy your car immediately
- Pricing and process uncertainty
  negotiation and admin are entirely on you

Finance and warranty availability varies by dealer; finance is subject to status, terms and affordability. Timeframes are indicative and depend on vehicle condition, demand and dealer capacity. Apany is not a lender.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is car consignment and how does it work?

Car consignment is a service where a dealer sells your car on your behalf, handling everything from photography and advertising to enquiries and paperwork. You remain the legal owner until the car sells, at which point you receive an agreed payout. With Apany, our 3-step process makes it easy to list your vehicle and compare offers from trusted dealers.

How much more can I expect to get for my car through consignment?

Selling your car on consignment may result in a higher payout compared with part exchange or instant cash offers. This is because dealers which are FCA regulated can advertise your car at its retail price and may also be able to offer buyers added services such as warranties or finance.

How much does it cost to sell a car on consignment with Apany?

Nothing � it�s completely free for you as the seller. Apany charges a service fee to the dealer only when the car is sold. There are no listing fees, admin charges, or hidden costs for using our consignment platform.

How long does it take to sell my car through consignment?

Most sellers receive consignment proposals from our dealer network within 48 hours of listing. Once your car is with a dealer, selling time can range from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the car's price, condition, and market demand. You can track all progress via your Apany dashboard as part of our transparent process.

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Looking to sell your carfor morewithout the hassle of selling it yourself?

Skip part‑ex, instant buyers, and private sales.Set your payout and let dealers sell your car for you, for free!

Track Your Sale or Return Sale

Set your payout. Dealers sell it.

List your car

Choose a dealer & go live

We sell it & you get paid

Compare Your Options

Sell your car with Apany

Instant Online Sale

Selling Privately