The used car industry looks noticeably different today than it did in the past. Operating an independent car dealership used to involve a great deal of manual record-keeping, research, analysis, and face-to-face time with consumers to ensure smooth operations, profitability, and high customer satisfaction.

Nowadays, independent dealerships can utilize powerful software and other digital platforms to automate various parts of the business, streamline operations, and ensure everything runs smoothly, efficiently, and in a cost-effective manner. Today’s used car buyers expect an exceptional experience, and used car dealer software can help your dealership – no matter the size – deliver. 

Independent used car dealerships looking to generate more sales in faster sales cycles are leveraging various software solutions to stay competitive and even beat out the competition.

Used Car Dealer Software Improves The Buying Experience

Dealerships that use software to manage the used car buying experience see improved customer satisfaction. Customers report being more valued and empowered since they feel like they are in control of the buying process.

Providing a better and more empowering experience will only strengthen your dealership’s reputation. Customers will be more likely to repeat, recommend you to family & friends, and even leave positive public reviews for others to read. 

Investing in the right technology improves customer service and will have long-lasting benefits. It ensures your customers are getting the best service possible and will improve your bottom line.

How to Select the Right Used Car Dealership Software

To keep up in a highly competitive industry driven by constant technological advancements and more demanding customers, it’s essential for used car dealerships to utilize different software. 

Car dealer software will help your dealership stay on top of customer engagement, lead generation and lead flow, marketing, administrative operations, inventory, finances, and much more. If there’s a need, there’s likely a software solution for your dealership – all you have to do is use the right software to address your needs, and this Used Car Dealer Software Guide will help you select the right options.

The Used Car Dealer Software Guide

Choosing the right used car dealer software is crucial and it should be based on the unique needs of your dealership and customers. The best place to begin is by identifying the different categories of software that can help your dealership – this guide does that. Once you know the essential software categories, the next step is to dig into the various types of software available within each category, learn more about them, and most importantly, evaluate them.  

To make sure you get the right software, it’s necessary to educate yourself on the different types of software and what advantages they each offer. Remember, when considering the variety of used car dealer software options, it will be helpful to narrow your options down to those that exactly meet your dealership’s needs. 

Let’s get started by learning more about the different types of software available to used car dealerships.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software for Dealerships

Automotive CRM software is an essential tool for any used car dealership – it helps build and maintain relationships with customers, both old and new. A CRM specifically designed for independent car dealers will help you optimize various processes like scheduling, general workflows, and even marketing initiatives. 

One of the best things about CRM software is that it increases the availability and accessibility of information about customers, sales, and schedules – whatever the information may be, a robust CRM platform can allow your small and independent dealership to operate with greater efficiency and communication, which in turn, results in a better customer experience. 

A used car dealer CRM makes it easier to track customer interactions, view your sales pipeline, and provide a better overall experience for your customers and your sales team.

The Essential Features to look for in a used car dealership CRM are: 

1. Lead Management

The ability to track leads that are generated online, over the phone, via affiliates, or as walk-ins.

2. Lead Searching, Sorting, and Filtering

Be able to search, sort, and filter all leads in one screen, with notifications on progress for reps and complete activity records for managers.

3. Lead Nurturing and Automation

The ability to respond automatically and immediately to new leads leveraging automated emails and texts for consistency, thus freeing the sales team to focus on high-probability leads.

4. Improved Communication

The capacity to track all customer communications via phone, text, and email.

5. Accountability

With every task and activity logged in one place, managers can monitor the sales team at a glance and always know which activities are producing the best results.

6. Transparency and Reporting

Following every deal of the sales process from beginning to end and providing meaningful reports that summarize operational performance.

7. Mobile App

Sales reps are rarely at their desk, so they need a CRM on the go that allows them to quickly access their leads on their cell phone to send texts and emails, update notes, schedule appointments, and log sales.

8. Integration

CRM is powerful software, but it can not do everything, nor should it. That is why it’s important for a used car dealership CRM to be able to integrate with other third-party systems like Dealer Management Systems, Inventory Management, Consumer Credit Apps, and Vehicle History systems.

AutoRaptor’s CRM for Used Car Dealerships

The best Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software for used car dealerships is AutoRaptor. It meets all the benefits listed above, has a proven history in the industry, and has unparalleled customer satisfaction. If your used and independent car dealership is looking for a comprehensive CRM solution, we encourage you to try a free demo of AutoRaptor. You will not be disappointed.

Closing Thoughts on a CRM for Your Used Car Dealership

Customers are the lifeblood of any organization, but this is especially true in the used car industry, so providing excellent customer service is one of the best ways to ensure customer loyalty and expand your customer base. 

Used car CRM software provides a wide array of benefits not just for customers but for sales teams and management as well. By employing the right used car CRM, your dealership is investing in customers and operations.

Dealer Management System (DMS)

A Dealer Management System (DMS) helps manage vehicle inventory, process sales, run credit reports, tally accounting records, print paperwork, and integrate with other dealership software like a CRM. Dealer management systems enable a used car dealership to perform all the day-to-day functions your dealership encounters. A good DMS should easily integrate with other software to allow for a streamlined, easy-to-use exchange of information between all the operational areas of your dealership.

A dealer management system helps you achieve goals by creating effective and cooperative systems for departments to communicate, interact, and stay informed with each other. A good DMS will save you money, improve operations efficiency, and also improve the customer experience at your independent dealership.

Dealer Management Systems Features

1. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Integration
2. Inventory Management
3. Integrated Accounting with Tax Software
4. POS & Retail Management
5. Reporting Tools & Analytics
6. Service Scheduling & Productivity Tracker
7. Repair Order & Billing Estimates
8. Deal Structuring, Forms & Contracting
9. Lead Management Quoting
10. Multi-platform Access (laptop/desktop, mobile)

Used car dealer management software can also be utilized to help streamline the numerous administrative tasks involved in running an independent dealership. DMS systems can help dealerships harness the wealth of data at their disposal so that they can to make more informed decisions and improve administrative operations. 

When small, used car dealership personnel can spend more time working with customers and converting leads into sales and less time worrying about menial tasks that DMS handles – that can boost your bottom line significantly.

Inventory Management Software

Inventory Management Software is typically built into most DMS systems, but it can also be purchased as standalone small used car dealer software. Inventory management software is a powerful tool for most independent dealerships that helps you automate the inventory tracking process.

You can efficiently monitor the current cars on the lot and identify vehicles that are in need of replacement. Inventory management software ensures you have accurate counts on the cars you have for sale and track which cars you may be in need of. Lastly, inventory management software can help you syndicate inventory to your website, your DMS, and even your CRM by matching cars with lead interest.

A Website Built for Used Car Dealership

A website is usually the first place leads/customers will interact with you. A website that is modern, responsive, and easy to use is a must for any small independent dealership. The website should easily integrate with your CRM so that inquiries can quickly turn into leads and seamlessly flow through your sales pipeline. The website should also integrate with your DMS and/or inventory management system so that customers can view what vehicles you have available. 

Most buyers begin looking for a car online. According to CDK Global, “90% of car shoppers prefer a dealership where they can start the buying process online.” Even more astounding, an ACERTUS study shows that “80 percent of potential car buyers may consider buying a car sight-unseen if certain conditions are met.” 

Needless to say, consumers expect an easy-to-use online experience at independent car dealerships, and that all starts with your website.

Why Used Car Dealer Software Is Important

Operating a used car dealership can be rather challenging, even in the best of circumstances. Add in a bit of supply chain issues, a pinch of inflation, and soaring gas prices, and suddenly challenging takes on a whole new meaning. There are ways to help streamline the process, though, and keep things better organized by implementing the right used car dealership software.

There are so many potential benefits to implementing the right used car dealer software. While the cars on your lot may be older, that doesn’t mean the software helping you run operations needs to be dated. Independent car dealers that can adapt and find software solutions that work for them will continue to thrive as long as they make the most of the technology that’s available.

The Right Used Car Dealer Software Will Help Your Independent Dealership Thrive

At the end of the day, when a small independent used car dealership has all the tools it needs to run smoothly and efficiently because of car dealer computer software, it’s more likely that sales and morale will increase. Greater efficiency and greater attitudes can only lead to more sales and more customers for your independent used car dealership.

The post The Best Used Car Dealer Software for 2023 appeared first on AutoRaptor CRM.

In today’s competitive used car market, it is essential that car sales professionals have the right tools to maximize their effectiveness. Used car sales software can provide these tools by offering a comprehensive suite of features designed to streamline operations and allow sales professionals to reach their goals. 

Used Car Sales Software Improves Your Customers’ Experience

Customers are now more informed than ever and make their purchasing decisions based on the knowledge they gain before visiting a dealership. In order to meet the demands of their customers, dealers need to be able to provide information that adds to the customer’s knowledge and makes them feel more confident in the deal they have made. With the right used car sales software, dealers can provide this information and ultimately build lasting trust with their customers.

Essential Used Car Dealership Sales Software

Used car sales software offers an array of tools and features that help used car dealers achieve success in a highly competitive environment. These include:

• Inventory Management Capabilities,
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems
• Financial Reporting Options
• Marketing Solutions
• Online Presence Optimization
• Appointment Scheduling Tools
• and more …

With these powerful tools at their fingertips, used car dealers can better manage their business operations while leveraging data-driven insights to improve operational efficiency and profitability.

What To Look For In Used Car Dealership Sales Software

Used car sales software is an important tool for any dealership that deals with used cars. Without the right software, dealerships can have difficulty managing their inventory, tracking customer information, and streamlining their sales process. But with so many different types of used car sales software on the market, how do you know which one to choose?

When selecting a used car sales software system for your dealership, there are several key features to look for. 

First and foremost, you want a solution that includes comprehensive inventory tools so you can easily manage and track what’s available in stock at all times. Additionally, search functions should be included so customers can quickly find models they’re interested in without having to sift through hundreds of vehicles. Furthermore, any suite of used car dealer software. should also include a system for uploading and displaying vehicle specs and details, so customers can get the information they need to make an informed decision.

Another important factor when evaluating sales software for your independent dealership is reliability and customer support. 

Does the sales software you’re looking at have a solid reputation and is there a quick and responsive support team to help you with any questions or needs?

Is the used car sales software mobile?

Most of your customer-facing time at a used car dealership is spent on your feet, in the lot, showing customers the vehicle(s) they are most interested in. To accommodate this, your used car dealership sales software needs to be mobile. You need to be able to access this software from a phone or smart mobile device.

Can the used car sales software integrate with your website for online sales?

According to Carvana data millennials account for a leading 46% of total online sales and Gen X 32%. More and more buyers are feeling comfortable with conducting their used car search and purchase process entirely online. This trend is only expected to grow, so it’s important that your used car sales software is fully integrated with your online experience.

Lastly, does all your used car sales software integrate with other dealership software and third-party tools? 

Rarely can you find a reliable solution that can do it all. The best used car dealer sales software specializes in certain areas of the dealership business and can easily integrate with other sales systems or third-party external tools and apps.

What’s the Most Important Used Car Sales Software to Your Independent Dealership?

All used car sales software is key, but at AutoRaptor, we consider your independent dealership CRM to be central and critical to your sales team’s success. A Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system is essential for any used car dealership. It helps you keep track of leads and customers and then can give you insights into their buying habits, so that you can provide the best possible customer service.

A used car dealer CRM also helps dealerships to better manage their inventory, as it allows them to quickly identify which cars are in high demand and which ones need to be replaced. Additionally, a used auto CRM system can help dealerships build relationships with customers by tracking customer interactions and providing personalized offers and discounts via automated actions and messages. 

With a solid used car dealer CRM system in place and as the focal point of your suite of used car sales software, your used and independent car dealership can ensure that their customers will remain loyal and satisfied for years to come and that your dealership will reach it goals.  

The post Used Car Sales Software Is Essential To Your Dealership appeared first on AutoRaptor CRM.

Choosing the right small used car dealer may seem overwhelming, but AutoRaptor makes it easy.

Most independent used car dealers are used to cold calls and emails from various CRM companies claiming they have all the answers to your dealership’s sales problems. While they may have some useful features, they’re usually overpriced and built for franchised new car dealerships, not smaller, independent used car businesses. Overwhelmed and desperate to increase monthly sales, many dealers try these CRMs, but quickly find they are not budget-friendly, and efficiency and productivity have not changed a bit.

While it can feel scary to make the jump to yet another automotive CRM software, it’s not so bad if you know what you really need. Instead of relying on high-pressure sales pitches and last-minute decisions that lead to regret, make a list of the features that will make a lasting difference in your dealership’s overall success. Think about the tools you’d actually use, and how you would like them to work. You’ll soon discover that it’s all within reach.

The Best Small Used Car Dealer Software Can Make Your Job Easier And Help Profits Accelerate

The best small used car dealer software is easy to use.

Part of the reason some dealerships may be hesitant to switch CRMs is that they have to re-learn new tools and adjust their daily processes for what may seem like the millionth time. It can feel overwhelming and time-consuming with the wrong provider, but AutoRaptor is the most user-friendly CRM on the market, and we focus on the end-user’s daily use and efficiency with every feature.

The best small used car dealer software offers first-class dealer support.

Getting the support you need can sometimes take hours, days, or even weeks, but not with AutoRaptor. The average response time to help tickets is only 4 minutes! Training is included in your subscription, and unlimited, so new and existing users who want a refresher course can easily schedule one on one training sessions without attending expensive conferences.

The best small used car dealer software understands their client’s specific needs.

It’s about more than data collection; it’s about giving independent dealers the tools they need to increase their sales power and decrease unnecessary expenses. AutoRaptor is made by a team that understands the needs of small used car dealerships and sets out to provide a cost-effective and powerful application that you’ll use.

The best small used car dealer software eliminates mundane tasks.

While there are CRMs out there that can help send automated communications, not all of them help organize, filter, and assign leads and tasks like AutoRaptor. Everyone, including managers, knows what has to be done every day and by whom. Daily action plans allow you to set up daily tasks, so nothing is ever overlooked, and automation tools ensure lead prospects receive persuasive communication and marketing efforts every, single day.

The best small used car dealer software provides full mobile accessibility.

Most CRMs want dealers to focus on computers, not customers. There’s no need for your team to be tied to a desk when you have AutoRaptor’s communication and sales features in the palm of your hand. Scan licenses and vehicle VINs, access customer records, and even start a deal from scratch. With the most powerful CRM mobile app on the market, tasks that once required a desktop computer can now be performed anywhere, anytime.

The best small used car dealer software gives independent dealers confidence.

Dealers should never feel unsure about their choice in CRM tools. The best dealer software should make it easy to customize your sales process, set up daily work plans to keep reps organized, and create robust retention campaigns that drive more sales. AutoRaptor does that better than any independent dealer CRM on the market, for one affordable monthly fee so dealers can feel confident about their sales efforts, and their budget.

There is a better way to sell cars, and with AutoRaptor, the sales opportunities are limitless. Independent dealers can instantly improve daily processes that lead to continual sales success and feel confident while doing it. Schedule a demo today!

The post Which Small Used Car Dealer Software Works Best? appeared first on AutoRaptor CRM.

Used car dealerships are an essential part of the automotive industry, but competition is tough not only within the used car market but when you consider new car dealerships and online buying options are also competing for buyers. To stay ahead, small and independent used car dealerships need to provide excellent customer service and build strong relationships with their customers. 

A CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system can help them do this by providing a centralized platform for tracking customer data and interactions. With a CRM, used car dealerships gain valuable insights into customers’ needs, preferences, and buying habits. This information can be used to create targeted campaigns that will help attract more customers and increase sales. 

A used car dealer CRM helps your dealership and its sales teams, qualify leads, and then move them effectively through a pipeline into customers. A used dealership CRM is a great resource for customer service and after-sales engagement. 

Additionally, a CRM system can help streamline the sales process by automating mundane tasks like lead qualification and follow-up emails. By investing in a CRM system, used car dealerships can ensure that their customer service is optimized and meets the needs of demanding customer expectations.

Used Car Dealer CRM Features

Independent car dealers greatly benefit from the capabilities of a CRM system built specifically for the used car market. A qualified used car dealership CRM should offer:

• Sales and customer support automation
• Centralized lead assignments
• Customizable action plans
• Email & text message marketing
• Sales reporting and insights
• Scheduling & appointments
• Lead prioritization
• And much more

Need Help Selecting and Implementing a Used Car Dealer CRM at Your Dealership? 

Implementing any new software, like an auto dealer CRM for your independent dealership, can be stressful so let AutoRaptor guide you in a way that has helped other dealerships succeed. Think about the tools you’ll actually use, and how you would like them to work. You’ll soon discover that it’s all within reach.

Find out how the best small used car CRM makes your job easier and grows profits

The best small used car CRM is easy to use.

Part of the reason some dealerships may be hesitant to switch CRMs is that they have to re-learn new tools and adjust their daily processes. This can be challenging while maintaining daily business demands. 

AutoRaptor is the most intuitive used car dealer CRM on the market. With every new feature, we think about the end users’ daily use and efficiency. We strive to maintain a simple, yet powerful tool to give your dealership results.

The best used car CRM offers customer support you can rely on.

Getting the support you need can sometimes take hours, days, or even weeks, but not with AutoRaptor. Our team is easily accessible, prompt, knowledgeable, and pleasant! The average response time to help tickets is only 4 minutes!

Training is included in your subscription, and unlimited, so new and existing users who want a refresher course can easily schedule one on one training sessions for added value.

The best used car dealer CRM addresses dealerships’ specific needs.

It’s about more than data collection; it’s about giving independent dealers the tools they need to stop missing opportunities and increase their sales power. AutoRaptor is made by a team that understands the needs of small used car dealerships and sets out to provide a cost-effective and powerful application that you’ll use.

The best independent car dealership CRM is reliable and fast.

Quick response times are critical when it comes to used car sales, especially with prospects able to access so much inventory online. AutoRaptor’s uptime is 99%. You can count on AutoRaptor to be accessible and functional to your dealership. Additionally, quick responses are one of the main ways to make your customers feel valued and taken care of, which leads to increased customer satisfaction, referrals, and long-term profits.

The best small used car dealership CRM creates organization and accountability.

While there are dealership CRMs out there that can help send automated communications, not all of them help organize, filter, and assign leads and tasks like AutoRaptor. Everyone, including managers, knows what has to be done every day and by whom. Daily action plans allow you to set up daily tasks, so nothing is ever overlooked, and automation tools ensure lead prospects receive persuasive communication and marketing efforts every, single day.

The best used car dealer CRM provides full mobile accessibility.

There’s no need for your team to be tied to a desk when you have AutoRaptor’s communication and sales features in the palm of your hand. Scan licenses and vehicle VINs, access customer records, and even start a deal from scratch. With the most powerful CRM mobile app on the market, tasks that once required a desktop computer can now be performed anywhere, anytime. The rising use from mobile devices and tablets means that 81% of users are now accessing CRM software from multiple devices, freeing salespeople and managers to remain plugged in and informed while they are out on the lot working with customers.

The best small used car dealership CRM gives independent dealers confidence.

The best CRM dealership software should make it easy to customize your sales process, set up daily work plans to keep reps organized, and create robust retention campaigns that drive more sales. AutoRaptor does that better than any independent dealer CRM on the market, for one affordable monthly fee so dealers can feel confident about their sales efforts, and their budget.

AutoRaptor – The Best Used Car Dealer CRM Software for Small and Independent Dealerships

There is a better way to sell cars, and with AutoRaptor, the sales opportunities are limitless. Independent dealers can instantly improve daily processes that lead to continual sales success and feel confident while doing it. Schedule a demo today!

The post How the Best Used Car Dealer CRM Helps Small and Independent Dealerships Grow appeared first on AutoRaptor CRM.