Guide to Selling Your Car in Hong Kong
Selling a car in Hong Kong can be a straightforward process if you follow the right steps. Whether you're selling privately, through a dealer, or using an online platform, this guide will walk you through the process.
1. Decide How to Sell Your Car
A. Selling Privately
You can sell directly to a buyer, which may get you a better price but requires more effort.
Pros: Higher selling price, direct negotiation
Cons: Time-consuming, requires paperwork handling
B. Selling to a Dealer
Car dealers will buy your car quickly but at a lower price.
Pros: Fast, hassle-free transaction
Cons: Lower price compared to private sales
C. Selling Through an Online Platform
Websites and marketplaces connect buyers and sellers.
Pros: Wider audience, competitive offers
Cons: Requires handling inquiries and negotiations
Popular platforms in Hong Kong:
Carousell Hong Kong (carousell.hk)
HKCarTrader (hkcartrader.com)
28Car (28car.com)
AutoTrader Hong Kong (autotrader.com.hk)
2. Prepare Your Car for Sale
A. Gather Necessary Documents
Vehicle Registration Document (VRD) (also called the "Blue Card")
Valid Insurance Policy (if applicable)
Road Tax Certificate (if valid)
Service & Maintenance Records (optional but adds value)
Any Loan Release Documents (if the car was under financing)
B. Get Your Car Inspected
Buyers often request a pre-sale inspection. You can get it checked at:
HKAA Vehicle Inspection Centre
Government Vehicle Examination Centre
Independent mechanics or garages
C. Clean and Fix Minor Issues
A clean and well-maintained car sells faster. Consider:
Professional car detailing
Fixing minor scratches or dents
Ensuring tires and brakes are in good condition
3. Set a Competitive Price
Check market rates for similar cars using:
28Car or Carousell for price comparison
Dealer trade-in offers for a benchmark price
Consider depreciation rates (Cars in HK depreciate quickly due to licensing costs)
4. Advertise Your Car
A. Take High-Quality Photos
Capture different angles (front, side, interior, dashboard, engine)
Highlight key features (e.g., leather seats, sunroof, low mileage)
B. Write a Good Listing Description
Include:
Make, Model, Year (e.g., "2019 Toyota Prius Hybrid")
Mileage
Transmission (Automatic/Manual)
Engine Size & Fuel Type
Any Modifications or Special Features
Asking Price (Negotiable or Fixed)
Contact Details (WhatsApp preferred in HK)
5. Handling Inquiries & Negotiations
Be prepared to answer questions about car history, condition, and price.
Allow potential buyers to test drive in a safe location (e.g., a parking lot).
Be firm but flexible in negotiations.
6. Completing the Sale & Ownership Transfer
A. Sign the Transfer of Ownership
Both buyer and seller must complete the "Notice of Transfer of Ownership of a Motor Vehicle" (TD25 Form) from the Transport Department.
Submit the form to the Hong Kong Transport Department in person or by mail.
B. Cancel or Transfer Insurance
Inform your insurer and cancel or transfer the policy to another vehicle.
C. Receive Payment Securely
Preferred methods: Bank transfer or cashier’s check
Avoid: Large cash transactions to prevent fraud
7. De-registering the Vehicle (if exporting or scrapping)
If you're scrapping or exporting the car, notify:
Hong Kong Transport Department
Customs & Excise Department (for deregistration tax refund if eligible)
Scrap yards and car exporters can assist with this process.
Final Tips
✅ Act Quickly: Road tax and insurance costs continue until the sale is finalized.
✅ Beware of Scams: Meet in public places and verify payment before handing over the car.
✅ Keep Records: Keep a copy of the signed TD25 form for reference.
