Ever dreamed of skipping the dealer and ordering your next car straight from the source? With more car buyers craving transparency, customization, and sometimes a better deal, it’s no wonder many are asking if you can buy directly from the manufacturer.
This article clears up the confusion and walks you through what’s possible—and what’s not. We’ll explain how car ordering works, outline your options, and offer practical tips to help you get the car you want, your way.
Can You Order a Car Directly from the Manufacturer?
If you’ve ever dreamed of configuring your perfect car, you’ve probably wondered: “Can I order a car directly from the manufacturer and skip the dealer altogether?”
The short answer: In most cases, you cannot order a car directly from the manufacturer as a retail consumer in the United States. Instead, you typically place an order through an authorized dealership, even when the vehicle is custom-built to your specifications at the factory. However, factory ordering still gives you a high degree of customization—and can sometimes help you avoid dealer lot markups or unwanted features.
Let’s break down how factory ordering works, explore the pros and cons, and share practical advice to make the process as smooth as possible.
How Does Factory Ordering Work?
Ordering a car from the factory is different from buying what’s on the dealer’s lot. Here’s a simplified overview:
- Factory Order vs. On-the-Lot Purchase
- On-the-Lot Purchase: You buy a vehicle that’s already been manufactured and shipped to the dealership.
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Factory Order: You choose the exact model, color, trim, and options you want. The dealer submits your order to the manufacturer, who then builds the vehicle and ships it to your dealer.
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The Role of the Dealership
- In the U.S., car manufacturers are generally required by law to sell vehicles only through franchised dealerships.
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As the customer, you work with the dealer, but your car is built at the factory based on your order.
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Direct-to-Consumer Exceptions
- Some electric vehicle manufacturers, such as Tesla and a few startups, use a direct-sales model. In these cases, you can order directly, often online, and arrange for pickup or delivery.
Step-by-Step: How to Order a Factory-Built Car
Ordering a car from the factory may sound complicated, but it can be straightforward. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Research and Configure Your Car
- Begin by exploring the manufacturer’s official website.
- Build your dream vehicle using their configurator—select trim, paint, interior, packages, and options.
2. Find a Dealership
- Locate a franchised dealer authorized to sell your desired make.
- Reach out to the dealer and confirm their process for placing factory orders. Some may be more experienced with custom orders than others.
3. Discuss Pricing and Timeline
- Discuss the price, keeping in mind that factory orders don’t always guarantee lower prices.
- Negotiate as you would with any car purchase.
- Ask the dealer for an estimated production and delivery timeline, as wait times can range from several weeks to a few months or longer.
4. Submit Your Order
- Finalize your order details with the dealer.
- You may need to place a deposit, amounting to a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, which is often refundable if you change your mind before the car is built.
5. Monitor Your Order
- The dealership may provide updates as your vehicle moves through production and shipping.
- Stay in touch with your salesperson for progress reports.
6. Take Delivery
- When the car arrives at the dealership, inspect it to ensure it matches your specifications.
- Complete the final paperwork, pay any remaining balance, and drive away in your custom-built vehicle.
Benefits of Ordering a Car from the Factory
Opting for a factory order holds several advantages:
- Customization: Choose the exact paint color, interior materials, technology features, and packages you want—no need to compromise.
- Avoids Dealer Add-Ons: No more unwanted accessories or upgrades that increase the price.
- Potential to Dodge Markups: In times of high demand, some dealers add “market adjustment” fees for in-demand vehicles; a factory order may help you avoid these (though not always).
- Fresh Build: Your car is brand new, usually with minimal mileage from factory to dealership.
Challenges and Considerations
Factory ordering can also come with challenges you should keep in mind:
- Longer Wait Time: Custom orders usually take weeks to months, especially during supply chain disruptions or high demand.
- Limited Negotiation on Some Models: For very popular or limited-edition models, dealers may limit discounts on factory orders.
- Possible Price Changes: If production or delivery is delayed, the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) and incentives may change between order and delivery.
- Not Always Eligible for All Incentives: Special finance deals or rebates may not be available at delivery if they’ve expired.
- No Test Drive of Your Exact Car: You’re buying based on specs, not firsthand experience with your specific vehicle (though you can test-drive a similar unit at the dealer).
Practical Tips for a Smooth Ordering Experience
Ordering a car from the factory is exciting, but a few practical tips can help you avoid pitfalls:
Before You Order
- Verify Everything in Writing: Have the dealer document agreed-upon price, features, incentives, and timelines. Get a clear, signed buyer’s order.
- Clarify the Deposit Terms: Make sure you know if your deposit is refundable and under what conditions.
- Request Price Protection: Some manufacturers offer protection if new model year pricing or incentives shift before delivery. Ask if this is available.
While Waiting
- Check for Updates: Stay in touch with your salesperson for status updates; production schedules can shift.
- Monitor Incentives: If manufacturer incentives improve before delivery, ask if you’re eligible for the better offer.
On Delivery
- Inspect Your Vehicle Thoroughly: Make sure all features and specs match your original order.
- Confirm No Unwanted Add-Ons: Ensure the dealer hasn’t added accessories or services you didn’t agree to.
Special Note: Direct Sales for Electric Vehicles
The landscape is different for some electric vehicle brands:
- Tesla, Rivian, Lucid, and Polestar: Some brands sell directly to consumers online, bypassing traditional dealerships.
- Regional Variations: Some states restrict or ban direct sales, requiring pickup in another state or working through an agent.
Always check your local regulations and the manufacturer’s ordering process.
Can You Save Money by Ordering from the Factory?
Ordering a factory-built car can help avoid certain dealer markups, especially on high-demand models. However:
- No Automatic Discount: Factory ordering does not automatically grant you a lower price.
- Negotiation Still Applies: You must negotiate the selling price with the dealer, just as you would with an in-stock vehicle.
- Watch for Fees: Some dealers charge special order fees—always ask up front.
Is Factory Ordering Worth It?
It depends on your priorities. Consider factory ordering if you:
- Want control over every aspect of your vehicle’s configuration
- Are willing to wait for your perfect car, rather than settle for what’s in stock
- Wish to avoid dealer-installed features you don’t want
- Are shopping for an in-demand or rare model that’s rarely available on dealer lots
If immediate availability or test-driving the exact car you’ll drive home matters most, choosing from dealer inventory may be better.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I buy a car directly from the manufacturer without going through a dealer?
Most traditional car brands require purchases through authorized dealers by law. However, some electric vehicle brands allow direct orders, depending on your state’s regulations.
2. How long does it take to receive a factory-ordered car?
The wait can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the brand, model, and current supply chain conditions. Your dealer should be able to provide an estimated timeline.
3. Will I pay less by ordering a car from the factory?
Ordering from the factory doesn’t always mean a lower price, but it may help you avoid dealer markups or unwanted features. Negotiation is still key to getting the best deal.
4. Can I customize every detail of my car when ordering from the factory?
You can often choose from a wide list of options, packages, and accessories. However, not every combination is possible—manufacturers may restrict some options or require certain packages.
5. What happens if my car arrives and it’s different from what I ordered?
Inspect your vehicle thoroughly at delivery. If features or specs are missing or incorrect, work with your dealer immediately to resolve any issues before finalizing the deal.
Summary
Ordering a car from the factory is a great option if you value customization, want to avoid unwanted add-ons, or are seeking a rare configuration. While most purchases still flow through dealerships, the process lets you drive away in the car that’s just right for you. Patience and clear communication with your dealer are key to a smooth experience. By understanding the process, negotiating smartly, and keeping tabs on your order, you can make factory ordering work to your advantage.
