November 26, 2025
8-10 min(s) to read
Buying a used car online has never been easier. With new car-shopping platforms, upgraded dealership websites, and app-based buying services, drivers can now compare options, secure financing, schedule delivery and complete the entire process from their phone.
Sellers also benefit from this growing online marketplace. Whether you want a fast sale, top-dollar offers, or the widest exposure, there’s a platform made for your needs.
Below are Payless Auto Shipping Services’ top picks for the best websites to buy and sell used cars in 2025, along with insights, pros and cons, and tips to help you choose the right platform.
AutoTempest
AutoTrader
Bring-A-Trailer
Cars.com
CarGurus
CarMax
CarStory
Carvana
Craigslist
eBay Motors
Edmunds
Hemmings
TrueCar
AutoTempest gathers listings from across the internet—Carvana, Cars.com, TrueCar, Craigslist, eBay, and more—into one powerful search engine. Buyers love getting every option in a single search. Sellers appreciate the exposure across many platforms.
AutoTempest is ideal for:
Comparing every option
Avoiding multiple website searches
Finding deals others might miss
Pros
Cons
AutoTrader remains a powerhouse for both buyers and sellers. It offers extensive filters, a strong reputation, and broad listing exposure through Kelley Blue Book.
Sellers benefit from:
Pros
Cons
Bring-A-Trailer is the go-to site for enthusiasts buying or selling unique rides—from classic muscle cars to rare imports and collectibles.
It’s an auction format with a passionate audience, making it perfect for specialty vehicles.
Pros
Cons
Cars.com remains one of the largest platforms for used vehicles. Listings are syndicated to multiple partner sites, helping sellers reach buyers faster.
However, the huge inventory means you’ll need high-quality photos and competitive pricing to stand out.
Pros
Cons
CarGurus attracts huge buyer traffic and offers free listings for private sellers. Each listing gets a “deal rating,” helping buyers quickly spot good prices.
Pros
Cons
CarMax gives buyers a huge used car inventory and sellers a simple appraisal process. You’ll get an instant offer online, followed by in-person verification at a CarMax location.
Pros
Cons
CarStory offers deep market analysis powered by AI. It reviews millions of vehicles across platforms to provide pricing trends, demand insights, and detailed comparisons.
Best for sellers who want data-backed pricing and buyers who want smart comparisons.
Pros
Cons
Carvana lets you browse, finance, and buy a car online with home delivery. Sellers also get home pickup, making the whole process fast and easy.
Pros
Cons
Craigslist is ideal for local buyers and sellers who prefer meeting in person and avoiding shipping. Listings are free, simple, and flexible.
Pros
Cons
eBay Motors gives sellers flexible auction or “buy now” options. Many buyers use it to find vehicles not available locally.
Pros
Cons
Edmunds is a long-standing leader in automotive research. Buyers trust it for side-by-side comparisons, accurate pricing data, and expert reviews.
Pros
Cons
Hemmings is the best platform for antique, vintage, muscle, and collector vehicles. Listings appear both online and in Hemmings Motor News magazine.
Pros
Cons
TrueCar offers nationwide inventory, upfront pricing comparisons, and transparent market data. Sellers can also get instant cash offers from certified dealers.
Pros
Cons
Dealerships have upgraded their online shopping experience significantly. Many now offer:
Virtual walkarounds
Transparent pricing
Paperwork assistance
Home delivery options
If you buy from a dealership out of state, Payless Auto Shipping can deliver the car right to your door.
AutoTrader is one of the largest and most trusted platforms.
AutoTrader, CarGurus, Carvana, Bring-A-Trailer, and Craigslist all serve different needs depending on your vehicle type and price expectations.
Always get a pre-purchase inspection and review service history. Avoid listings without clear photos or documentation.
Craigslist and eBay Motors generally offer the most inexpensive local options.
Some do, some don’t. Always read the listing terms before posting or buying.
Check reviews, BBB ratings, and seller history.
Buying or selling a car online often means shipping it across state lines. That’s where Payless Auto Shipping Services makes your life easier.
With thousands of carriers and nationwide coverage, we help buyers and sellers move vehicles safely and affordably.
Discover the most common car shipping scams and how Payless Auto Shipping keeps you protected with transparent pricing and verified carriers.
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