Starting a used car dealership requires more than finding vehicles to sell. This complete guide explains how to start a successful dealership, including creating a business plan, choosing a business structure, obtaining a motor vehicle dealer license, securing a dealer bond, purchasing garage liability insurance, finding inventory, financing your business, and marketing your dealership for long-term success.

Finding quality inventory is one of the most important parts of running a successful used car dealership. This complete guide explains where car dealers find vehicles, including dealer-only auctions, trade-ins, private sellers, fleet sales, lease returns, wholesale dealers, dealer-to-dealer trades, and online marketplaces. Learn how to evaluate inventory, finance purchases, protect your vehicles, and build a profitable inventory strategy.

Auto dealerships face a variety of risks, including customer injuries, test drive accidents, vehicle theft, hail damage, employee injuries, and property damage. This guide explains the most common auto dealer insurance claims, how they happen, and practical steps to reduce your dealership's risk. Learn how Garage Liability Insurance, Dealer Open Lot Insurance, and other coverages help protect your business from costly losses.