Vehicle Consignment in Florida
How consignment works in Florida: typical fees, title handling, contract terms, and how to find a licensed dealer.
Florida consignment fees reflect the competitive dealer market. Standard lots charge 10-12%; specialty lots (luxury, classic, RV) charge 12-15%. Flat fee structures are available from some high-volume consignment dealers.
How Consignment Works in Florida
Florida has a large vehicle consignment market, especially in Miami, Tampa, Orlando, and the Space Coast corridor. Florida law requires consignment dealers to hold a Florida Dealer License. The state's high population of seasonal residents and retirees supports a robust consignment market for RVs, boats, and luxury vehicles.
Consignment vs. Private Sale
| Factor | Consignment | Private Sale |
|---|---|---|
| Time investment | Minimal — dealer handles showings | High — you manage all inquiries, showings, and paperwork |
| Sale price | Market rate, minus 8-15% dealer fee | Full market rate if the deal closes |
| Speed of sale | Typically 2-6 weeks | Days to months depending on pricing and market |
| Paperwork | Dealer handles title transfer, tax | Seller and buyer manage all paperwork |
| Exposure | Multi-platform dealer listings + lot traffic | Single platform (Marketplace, Craigslist, etc.) |
| Scam risk | Low — dealer screens buyers | Moderate — seller must screen directly |
Florida consignment dealers retain the vehicle during the sale period. The title remains in the owner's name on a consignment basis. The dealer handles HSMV 82040 and the county tax collector title transfer upon sale.
Florida consignment agreements must specify the listing period, minimum acceptable sale price, dealer commission, storage fees, liability for accidents during the consignment period, and termination notice requirements.
Florida 6% state sales tax plus local surtax is collected by the county tax collector when the buyer completes the title transfer. The consignment dealer remits their commission from the proceeds.
Florida's strong snowbird and tourist market means consignment lots sell vehicles to out-of-state and international buyers regularly. A consignment dealer with a track record of these transactions can often achieve higher prices than a private Marketplace listing.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you decide to sell privately instead, a Florida-specific bill of sale handles the paperwork in one step.
Get Florida Bill of Sale