Buying or selling a used car online has never been easier, and with so many websites to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a car enthusiast, or someone simply looking to get from point A to B, finding the right platform can save you time, stress, and even help streamline auto transport logistics. With the digital landscape shifting how we shop for vehicles, it’s worth exploring which platforms dominate the market today—and why.
The Rise of Online Used Car Shopping
Over the past decade, car shopping has shifted from dealership lots to digital lots. According to Cox Automotive, more than 70% of car shoppers begin their search online, and nearly 60% of the entire car buying process is now completed digitally. That’s a seismic change from just a few years ago, when face-to-face negotiations and test drives were considered essential steps.
This shift is fueled not just by convenience but by access to an ever-expanding pool of vehicles. Users are no longer limited to their city or even state. Many platforms allow you to browse vehicles from across the country, making auto transport services more relevant than ever. In fact, over 15 million cars were transported within the United States in 2023 alone, a testament to how vital logistics has become in the used car market.
Carvana: Changing the Game with a Vending Machine
Carvana has become a household name in the online car-buying world. What makes it one of the most popular used car websites is its complete end-to-end shopping experience. You can search for cars, get financing, trade in your vehicle, and even schedule delivery—all without speaking to a salesperson.
Their famous car vending machines, located in over 30 U.S. cities, are a quirky but surprisingly functional feature. In 2022 alone, Carvana sold more than 420,000 vehicles through its platform. That’s almost double what it managed just three years prior.
What really appeals to buyers is the transparency of listings, complete with 360-degree car views, free CARFAX reports, and a 7-day return policy. For buyers who find their dream car across the country, Carvana also offers nationwide delivery, which folds seamlessly into their auto transport options.
Autotrader: A Veteran Still Going Strong
Before the newer players arrived, Autotrader was the go-to site for used cars. And while newer platforms have added bells and whistles, Autotrader remains one of the most popular used car websites because of its sheer inventory and reach.
Autotrader aggregates listings from dealers and private sellers, giving users access to hundreds of thousands of vehicles at any given time. According to internal data, the site attracts over 40 million visits each month. Its search filters allow you to drill down into details like fuel economy, drivetrain, and accident history, giving you a tailored search experience.
What makes Autotrader especially relevant is its partnership with Kelley Blue Book. This provides trustworthy car valuations and buying advice right on the platform, which helps buyers avoid overpaying or choosing a lemon. Although it doesn’t offer direct auto transport, many of its dealer listings include delivery options or will coordinate transport for you.
CarGurus: Trust Through Data
CarGurus has carved out a niche for itself by focusing on price transparency and seller trust. This site uses a proprietary algorithm to analyze listings and label them as “Great Deal,” “Good Deal,” or “Overpriced,” based on historical data and local market trends.
With over 38 million unique monthly visitors and 5 million listings, CarGurus has grown into one of the most popular used car websites in North America. Their user rating system also adds a layer of accountability, especially for private sellers.
One of CarGurus’ strengths is its Deal Rating system, which helps buyers quickly identify vehicles that are priced competitively. For shoppers browsing from out of state, CarGurus includes information about delivery options, although it typically relies on third-party auto transport services.
Facebook Marketplace: The Wild West of Used Cars
It might come as a surprise, but Facebook Marketplace has exploded in popularity as a used car hub. With over 1 billion users browsing Marketplace every month, a large chunk of that traffic goes toward vehicles. In fact, vehicle listings consistently rank among the most viewed categories on the platform.
What makes Facebook Marketplace unique is its local-first approach. Most listings are from individuals or small dealers within your area, making it easier to schedule in-person inspections or short-distance test drives. However, due diligence is crucial here. Unlike other platforms, Facebook does not offer vehicle history reports or buyer protection, so it’s up to the user to request documentation and verify the car’s condition.
When purchasing from out-of-state sellers, buyers must handle their own auto transport. While that adds a layer of complexity, the savings on private sales often justify the effort.
Edmunds: Trusted Reviews Meet Listings
Edmunds is widely known for its in-depth vehicle reviews and comparisons, but it also offers a robust used car marketplace. This dual purpose makes it one of the most valuable resources for informed buyers.
Edmunds combines expert-written reviews with real-world listings from dealers nationwide. Its unique “Edmunds Suggested Price” helps users gauge whether a listing is a good value based on data and market analysis. While its inventory isn’t as vast as competitors like Autotrader or CarGurus, the quality of listings and additional research tools more than make up for it.
In recent years, Edmunds has also integrated delivery options and third-party auto transport services, allowing users to buy confidently from anywhere in the country.
Cars.com: The Power of Integration
Cars.com is another heavyweight in the used car space. Launched in the late 1990s, the site has evolved into a tech-driven platform that emphasizes dealer transparency and customer reviews.
Cars.com reports over 20 million unique users per month and features listings from over 20,000 dealerships. One standout feature is its “Home Delivery” filter, which lets users search specifically for cars that include auto transport services.
In 2023, Cars.com launched AI-powered tools to assist with vehicle comparisons and pricing insights, giving users a high-tech shopping experience. The platform also offers educational resources for everything from financing to vehicle inspections.
The Growing Role of Auto Transport
As more people buy cars from out-of-state sellers, auto transport has become a vital part of the process. Whether you’re buying from Carvana with included delivery or arranging transport for a Facebook Marketplace find, knowing how to handle vehicle logistics is crucial.
Most major platforms either partner with or allow users to coordinate with third-party auto transport companies. Services range from open transport (more affordable) to enclosed carriers (safer for high-end vehicles). The average vehicle transport covers about 1,200 miles, and with proper planning, delivery can be completed within 7–10 days.
It’s worth noting that while most platforms facilitate the buying experience, the onus often falls on the buyer to manage transport logistics, insurance, and paperwork. That said, the convenience of shopping nationwide far outweighs the minor hassle of organizing shipping.
Matching the Site to Your Needs
So which of the most popular used car websites should you choose? The answer depends on your priorities. If you want a seamless, no-haggle buying experience, Carvana might be your best bet. If you’re after a great deal and want to see how it stacks up against the market, CarGurus offers powerful tools. For the traditionalist who still likes talking to a dealer, Autotrader and Cars.com provide vast inventories and helpful filters.
As used car shopping continues to shift online, being an informed buyer means understanding not just where to shop, but how to manage auto transport, verify listings, and protect yourself from scams. Fortunately, today’s platforms are making that easier than ever—bringing you closer to your next ride with just a few clicks.
