How does a trade run on Locates.io?
A trade on Locates.io runs in five steps: list, match, agree, sign, then deliver and settle. Dealers stay anonymous until both sign the same agreement, and Locates.io handles the terms, the freight and the money for a transparent $199-per-unit platform fee.
- 1
List
Forward a factory invoice, import your DMS file or use the form. The VIN fills in the vehicle. Price it, mark it open to offers, or keep it private.
- 2
Match
Buyers search blind: vehicle, distance band and an anonymous profile. Your name, city and VINs stay sealed.
- 3
Agree
Locates.io sets the terms with each side. Each dealer sees its own itemized numbers, including freight and the $199 fee, before signing.
- 4
Sign
Both dealers sign the same version, in either order. Names and VINs are released to both sides only then.
- 5
Deliver and settle
Units move at invoice by floor-plan swap or check. Whoever owes pays Locates.io, Locates.io pays whoever is owed, and freight runs door to door.
What stays private until both dealers sign?
Until both dealers sign the same version of the agreement, neither side sees the other's name, address, city, dealer code, VINs or exact distance. Buyers see the vehicle and a distance band. There is no dealer-to-dealer messaging at any point.
How does the money move?
Units transfer at invoice by floor-plan swap or check; Locates.io never holds the invoice amount. The amount over invoice runs through Locates.io. Whoever owes pays Locates.io directly, Locates.io pays whoever is owed, and no payout is made before the incoming funds arrive.
How does freight work?
Every freight number before booking is an estimate range, never a quote. The freight charge on your deal is fixed when the terms are finalized. Buyer pickup means no freight charge. See freight for dealer-to-dealer trades, explained.
Who is it for, and when should you use it?
Franchised new-vehicle dealers. Use it when a unit has aged on your lot, when month-end is close, or when you are missing the exact build a customer wants. See Locates.io for dealers.
How much does it cost?
A transparent $199 per unit platform fee, one time, plus freight when you want delivery. See pricing and the FAQ.