eBay streamlines vehicle transactions

Buying and selling a car on eBay just got safer and easier.

The e-commerce giant is debuting a new solution called Secure Purchase that manages payment, financing, registration, ownership transfer, and transport for vehicle transactions in one unified experience. 

Partially inspired by the finding that nearly 80% of vehicle purchases on eBay in 2024 crossed state lines, the retailer designed Secure Purchase to verify both the seller and buyer, automate paperwork and make funds digital and traceable. Here's how it works:  

• Start the checkout: Both the buyer and seller verify their identity and provide basic information about the vehicle being purchased.
• Opt into services: The buyer can select their financing, transportation, protection and insurance preferences in a few clicks.
• Submit key information: The seller uploads photos of the title, vehicle identification number (VIN) and odometer reading, all of which are independently verified through national vehicle title databases to help ensure accuracy.
• Payment and signature: The buyer and seller digitally sign the required documents, then transfer funds through the platform to initiate registration and title transfer.

"Online automotive shopping offers unmatched selection and value, but it can be overwhelming for some buyers," said Jesse Kiefer, GM of vehicles at eBay. "Secure Purchase removes complexity and adds an extra layer of assurance for users on the marketplace. Shoppers can find exactly the vehicle they want at the right price from anywhere in the U.S., while sellers can close deals with complete confidence. And there's no visit to the DMV."