An order-based sales model allows a dealer to find the customer first and then source a vehicle based on their requirements.
This can be useful for small or new dealers, but there are also risks to consider.
Benefits
Less Money Tied Up in Inventory
You don’t need to buy many vehicles before finding customers. This can help a new business manage its capital.
Lower Inventory Risk
Instead of buying vehicles and waiting for them to sell, you source a vehicle based on an actual customer request.
More Vehicle Choices
Customers can request specific:
- Models
- Years
- Engine sizes
- Colours
- Mileage
- Price ranges
The dealer can then search for vehicles that match those requirements.
Easier to Start Small
A dealer does not necessarily need a large showroom or yard. The business can focus on vehicle sourcing, customer service and online sales.
Risks and Disadvantages
Customers Have to Wait
Imported vehicles take time to purchase, prepare and ship. Delivery is not immediate.
The Requested Vehicle May Not Be Available
A specific model, specification and price may be difficult to find. Dealers should avoid promising a vehicle before it is secured.
Exchange Rates Can Change
Japanese vehicles may be purchased in JPY while customers pay in another currency. Exchange-rate changes can affect the final cost.
Quotations should clearly state the currency, price validity and payment conditions.
Cancellation Can Be Complicated
If a dealer purchases a vehicle specifically for a customer and the customer cancels, the dealer may be left with an unwanted vehicle.
Clear deposit, cancellation and refund terms are important.
Trust Is Essential
Customers may pay before seeing the vehicle in person. Dealers should provide clear information about:
- Vehicle condition
- Mileage and specifications
- Inspection information
- Price
- Shipping
- Expected timeline
Good communication helps keep the customer informed.
Is Order-Based Sales Right for Your Business?
This model may suit dealers who:
- Have limited starting capital
- Want to keep inventory small
- Sell through Facebook, Instagram or WhatsApp
- Want to offer more vehicle choices
- Plan to import vehicles from Japan
It can also be combined with a traditional dealership. A dealer could keep a few popular vehicles in stock while sourcing specific vehicles after receiving customer orders.
Final Thoughts
Order-based sales can help a small dealer reduce inventory risk and offer more choices, but clear pricing, payment terms, cancellation conditions and realistic delivery estimates are important.
The basic process is:
Customer request → Vehicle search → Agreement → Vehicle purchase → Export → Shipping → Delivery
For dealers importing from Japan, this can be a flexible way to grow without immediately investing in a large inventory.
Looking for Japanese Used Cars for Your Customers?
JTG Export can help Guyana-based dealers source used vehicles from Japan based on their customers’ preferred models, budgets and specifications.
Contact us to discuss your requirements.
コメント