Buying a new truck is a big financial step. The more knowledge about the truck that you can obtain, the easier and more pleasant the buying process can be. Without researching the vehicle and costs first, the buying process can be filled with uncertainties, higher costs and increased stress. One of the important facts to find out about the truck is the invoice price to the dealer. The Internet is full of resources to find out almost anything people want to know about a truck model, including the invoice prices.
Step 1: Determine the model and features wanted in your new truck. The model, color, and accessories can all be explored through vehicle buying research websites (see Resources). Navigate to one of these sites and search for the models and options available.
Step 2: Research the invoice price for the model and features wanted. Each site listed in the article Resources has information on the dealer invoice price. Research this on multiple sites because each may have slightly different numbers because invoice prices to the dealer can vary over the course of a model year. Be aware that the invoice price is not the true dealer price even though dealers will try to claim this.
Step 3: Read about the available incentives for the selected truck on the vehicle buying research websites. Along with rebates to a buyer, hidden rebates or other financial incentives to a dealership affect the true cost of the truck to the dealership. It is important to find any rebates and other incentives to dealers because dealers will seldom admit to a buyer that these incentives exist.
Step 4: Ask the dealer to see the invoice when offering to buy the truck. Some dealers may be hesitant to show this to a buyer, but if the buyer is negotiating in good faith and open to letting the dealership make a profit, many dealers will share this information. Don’t forget that dealerships are a business and are in business to make a profit.
There are dozens of auto insurers – Which one will give you the best rate?
Step 1) Choose your vehicle make below.
Step 2) On the next page, complete the 4 minute questionnaire, and you'll have the opportunity compare the best rates in your area.
Step 3) Keep more money and possibly save hundreds!