Selling guide

How to sell a car on Car buying services

Instant cash without waiting for a buyer — ideal when you want certainty.

Best for

Sellers who value speed and certainty over the highest possible price — typically when buying a new car and needing cash straight away.

Fees

Free — the buyer makes you an offer and covers all transfer costs.

Reach

A nationwide network of buying centres in the Czech Republic (AutoESA, AAA Auto, We Buy Any Car and dozens of local buyers).

Pros

  • Paid on the day of handover — no waiting for a buyer
  • The buyer handles all the paperwork (registration transfer, green card)
  • No roadworthiness test (STK) or repairs needed — they take cars in any condition
  • No stress over viewings and arranging appointments

Cons

  • The buy-out price is typically 10–25% below market value
  • Car buyers are experienced traders — valuations of older cars can be very low
  • Some buying platforms charge fees for valuations or reservations

How it works

Step by step

  1. 1

    Get several offers at once

    Don't settle for a single buyer. Enter your VIN and mileage on at least 3 platforms: autoesa.cz, aaaauto.cz/vykup and webuyanycar.cz. It takes 15 minutes and could earn you tens of thousands of crowns more.

  2. 2

    Know the market price before you negotiate

    Look up similar cars on Sauto or Carnado and note the price range. The market price is your anchor in negotiations — without it you'll always be at a disadvantage.

  3. 3

    Get your documents ready

    Buyers usually ask for: the large and small Czech registration documents (technický průkaz and registration certificate), a valid roadworthiness test (STK — otherwise they'll knock it off the price) and proof of servicing.

  4. 4

    Bring the car in for an inspection

    An online valuation is only ever a guide. The buyer will put the car on a lift (rust, bodywork repairs) and run a diagnostic check (fault codes). Be prepared for the price to be adjusted — or turn the offer down and go elsewhere.

  5. 5

    Negotiate — the first offer isn't final

    Buyers build in a margin. If you have a higher offer from a competitor, show it — they will often match or beat it. Also factor in the admin advantage: you pay nothing for the registration transfer.

  6. 6

    Sign the contract and get paid

    Before signing, check that the contract has no clauses allowing the price to be reduced retrospectively. Payment should arrive by bank transfer the same day or in cash on the spot.

  7. 7

    Cancel your insurance

    After the handover, return the green card to your insurer and ask them to end the policy. You're entitled to a pro-rata refund of any unused premium.

Rather not deal with it?

We'll sell it for you.

We take the photos, list the car on several platforms, talk to buyers and handle the paperwork. You just hand over the keys.

How to sell a car on Car buying services — Carnado