If you plan to import cars from the USA, focus on Copart and IAAI. These are the largest, reliable auction platforms with an enormous selection of vehicles, especially those from insurance companies. You can access the auctions through a licensed broker. Importing via these platforms is a proven and effective way to purchase a car from the other side of the world.
When importing cars from the USA, you need to know two key auction platforms: Copart and IAAI. These are where the vast majority of damaged vehicles, repossessed cars, or cars written off by insurance companies or taken out of leases end up. Both platforms operate online and are also available for buyers outside the USA.
Copart is the largest player in the market for damaged cars. The platform has over 200 locations in the USA and lists tens of thousands of vehicles every day. This is where cars involved in accidents, floods, hail damage, or with mechanical issues are sold.
It’s worth noting that the best cars typically come from insurance companies—these vehicles have documented damage histories, often with minor damages and regular servicing.
IAAI (Insurance Auto Auctions) is the second-largest auction platform in the USA. It also specializes in damaged vehicles but stands out due to greater transparency in listings and often better quality photos and vehicle information.
Like Copart, IAAI focuses on collaborating with large insurance companies. As a result, much of the inventory consists of so-called total loss vehicles—those deemed uneconomical to repair in the USA but still attractive to international buyers.
Apart from Copart and IAAI, there are other auctions, such as Manheim (for dealers) and ACV Auctions, but they are less relevant for importing damaged cars. Their offerings are generally aimed at the domestic market and fleet clients in the USA.
Both Copart and IAAI require a trade license to participate in auctions, which private individuals outside the USA typically don’t have. That’s why most buyers use intermediaries – companies with the necessary licenses in the United States that allow participation in auctions and the purchase of vehicles on their behalf.
Thanks to these intermediaries, it’s possible to search auctions remotely, place bids, buy vehicles, and arrange transport to Europe—all without needing US documents.