Buying a car interstate

Buying a car interstate can be a bit more challenging than buying a car in the same state. Here are some tips to make sure the purchase goes as smoothly as possible:

  • Make sure you ask the seller all the relevant questions you have about the car and emphasize that you will be travelling interstate. It is important for them to tell you everything about the car, any damage and any issues before you travel. You should understand the possibility of losing any travelling fees if you don't end up buying the vehicle. 

  • Need more confidence when buying a car unseen? RedBook Inspect provides a mobile vehicle inspection and digital report that includes road tests, photos and a CarFacts history report. You can click here for more information or simply click the 'Book Inspection' link on any vehicle you're viewing on carsales.

  • Ask the seller whether they will keep the car registered so you are able to drive it back to your home state. They have every right to cancel the registration and they cannot actually transfer the car in to your name using official state transport documents. 

  • Make sure your insurance company will cover you in an interstate registered vehicle.

 Need further help? Simply give your local transport authority (VIC ROADS, TMR, Service NSW) a call for more information about registering a car interstate. 

Any information on this page is provided as a guide only. It is not professional or expert advice and is not a substitute for such advice. The content may not be appropriate, correct or sufficient for your circumstances and should not be relied on as the only reason you do or don’t do anything.
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