Do used cars sell for more or less here on Oahu vs. the mainland? (to buy)

[born2explore]

We are looking at an upcoming move to the mainland and plan to sell our vehicle. Our vehicle shipping fees will be covered, so I'm wondering whether we should sell before moving or have the vehicle shipped then sell it on the mainland. Are used vehicles from Hawaii valued less on the mainland because they've been driven in harsher conditions? For reference we have a 2008 Toyota Highlander. Mahalo for any advice!

[Sherwoody]

I would check KBB and Craigslist in both areas. Mileage and condition make a big difference.

[hotzcatz]

What's KBB?

[Sherwoody]

Kelly Blue Book. You need to be sure to use the correct zip code.

Kelley Blue Book - New & Used Car Price Values

[whtviper1]

Originally Posted by born2explore

We are looking at an upcoming move to the mainland and plan to sell our vehicle. Our vehicle shipping fees will be covered, so I'm wondering whether we should sell before moving or have the vehicle shipped then sell it on the mainland. Are used vehicles from Hawaii valued less on the mainland because they've been driven in harsher conditions?

I my experience, used cars sell for a higher price in Hawaii than on the mainland, but it all comes down to who wants to buy your car whether that be in Hawaii or the Mainland. You don't get the typical discounting on cars in Hawaii mainly because you don't have as much competition here than on the mainland. For instance, on Oahu - if you want a Toyota, you have 3 options, Servco, Servco, and Servco that is it - no competitors.

The puzzling part of your message is the "driven in harsher conditions" in Hawaii. When I drive around Hawaii, I don't exactly think harsh conditions - I think harsh like Chicago and road salt, Phoenix and 120 degree temperatures, etc......

What kind of harsh conditions are you dealing with?

[pj737]

Originally Posted by born2explore

We are looking at an upcoming move to the mainland and plan to sell our vehicle. Our vehicle shipping fees will be covered, so I'm wondering whether we should sell before moving or have the vehicle shipped then sell it on the mainland. Are used vehicles from Hawaii valued less on the mainland because they've been driven in harsher conditions? For reference we have a 2008 Toyota Highlander. Mahalo for any advice!

As an alternative, can you ask to get the shipping costs reimbursed and allocated towards the purchase of a new/used vehicle on island? If that's the case, I'd sell where you are now. You will be without a vehicle for a couple weeks if you ship and will need alternative transportation during that window.

On the flip side, Toyota's in Hawaii have similar depreciation rates to gold... so selling here will likely net you a larger chunk than where you are.

[ScottStielow]

Originally Posted by born2explore

We are looking at an upcoming move to the mainland and plan to sell our vehicle. Our vehicle shipping fees will be covered, so I'm wondering whether we should sell before moving or have the vehicle shipped then sell it on the mainland. Are used vehicles from Hawaii valued less on the mainland because they've been driven in harsher conditions? For reference we have a 2008 Toyota Highlander. Mahalo for any advice!

Toyota Highlanders are sought after. So if you want to sell in Hawaii you'll get a better price than on the Mainland. Best of luck.

[terracore]

Used cars generally sell for more here than on the mainland. You said shipping was covered, so it sounds like a no-brainer. You might have to get the vehicles "Hawaii Legal" before selling them here at top dollar and that means a valid safety check, registration, and title. Make sure you know what that entails before deciding if the time and stress is worth what you'll make with the higher market values.

[born2explore]

Mahalo for all for your responses. We will definitely look at selling it here before moving to the mainland. By "harsh conditions" I meant salt air exposure, therefore potential rust etc. I agree, probably not the best term to use, as there are much harsher climates than here!!