Question 1

What is car consignment and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

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 [5-step process](#process) makes it easy to list your vehicle and [compare offers from trusted dealers](#comparison).

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

Selling your car on consignment typically results in a 10–20% higher payout compared to [part exchange or instant cash offers](#comparison). This is because our dealers can advertise your car at full retail value and offer buyers additional services like warranties or finance, which are provided by the dealers themselves.

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

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](#process).

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

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](#process) — simple, secure, and with no fees or deductions to you.

Question 6

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

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

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](#process).

Question 8

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

Accepted Answer

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

Question 9

Is my car safe during the consignment period?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 10

Do you handle DVLA paperwork when my car sells?

Accepted Answer

After the sale, the dealer typically assists or guides you in notifying the DVLA to transfer the registered keeper details. It’s important this is done promptly to avoid future liability. Keep the relevant V5C section for your records after handing the main document to the dealer.

Question 11

Can I consign a car that isn’t ULEZ-compliant?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 12

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

Accepted Answer

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 you on this, but the responsibility lies with you. Once retained, your vehicle will be assigned its original registration number for sale.

Question 13

Where will my car be advertised for sale?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 14

Do you offer a guaranteed minimum payout?

Accepted Answer

Yes. When you consign your car with Apany, you set your desired payout upfront, which acts as your guaranteed minimum amount. If your car sells, you will receive this agreed payout in full, with no deductions.

Question 15

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

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 16

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

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 17

Do I get more money with consignment versus part exchange?

Accepted Answer

Generally, consignment can earn you 10–20% more than part exchange because dealers can market your car at retail value to private buyers. Consignment involves a longer selling process but often delivers a better financial outcome, as you can see in our [selling options comparison](#comparison).

Question 18

What makes Apany different from other consignment services?

Accepted Answer

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](#process).

Question 19

Can I still drive my car during the consignment period?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 20

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

Accepted Answer

'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](#comparison) where ownership transfers immediately, often for less money.

Question 21

Should I sell my car on consignment?

Accepted Answer

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](#process).

About Apany

We’re revolutionising the experience of selling your car through our trusted dealer consignment network, delivering better returns and a hassle-free process.

Why sell your car with Apany?

Access Vetted Dealers

Transparent Dealer Proposals

Secure, Transparent Process

Set Your Payout, No Fees

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is car consignment and how does it work?

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

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

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