How to Sell Your Car Quickly on Tradeza (Step-by-Step)

Whether you're upgrading, downsizing, or just need the cash, selling a used car in South Africa can be quick and painless when you know what you're doing. Here's the exact process we recommend to Tradeza sellers.

1. Get your paperwork in order first

Before you even take a photo, gather:

• Vehicle registration papers (NATIS/eNaTIS document) — proves you're the owner
• Service history — photocopy or scan every service book page
• Any warranty documents still valid
• A valid licence disk and proof of recent roadworthy if required

Buyers will ask for these. Having them ready signals you're a serious, organised seller.

2. Research a realistic price

Price it too high and it sits for weeks. Too low and you leave money on the table. Check:

• Similar models, years, and mileage on Tradeza
• AutoTrader and Cars.co.za for the same vehicle
• TransUnion Auto Dealers' Guide (your dealer can quote you)

Set your price about 5–10% above your minimum acceptable offer to leave room for negotiation.

3. Clean it properly — inside and out

A full valet costs R300–R600 and adds significantly more to your sale price. Pay special attention to:

• Engine bay (buyers look here)
• Boot and under the seats
• The dashboard and all plastic trim

4. Take great photos

This is where most sellers lose out. Good photos triple your enquiries. Follow these rules:

• Shoot in natural light, early morning or late afternoon
• Photograph from the front, back, both sides, and three-quarter angles
• Show the interior (driver seat, back seat, boot)
• Include the odometer reading and service book page
• Be honest about any damage — show it clearly

5. Write a clear, detailed description

List the year, make, model, mileage, service history, extras (aircon, sunroof, leather), and any known issues. Honesty saves you from wasted time with tyre-kickers.

6. Screen buyers before meeting

Use Tradeza's built-in messaging to filter out serious buyers from time-wasters. Ask:

• Are they the end buyer, or an agent?
• When can they view?
• Are they paying cash, bank transfer, or financing?

7. Meet safely and complete the sale

Always meet at a public place — a busy mall parking lot during the day is ideal. For final payment and signing, some sellers prefer meeting at a bank or the buyer's finance house so funds clear before handing over keys.

Read our full safety guide before your first meeting.

8. Final paperwork

Complete the Notice of Change of Ownership (NCO) at your local licensing office within 21 days. Both buyer and seller need to sign. Failing to do this means you remain liable for traffic fines the new owner racks up — don't skip it.

Bonus: Use a boost

If your ad isn't getting attention after 3–4 days, consider boosting it. Boosted ads appear at the top of search results and typically get 3–5× more views.

Ready to list? Post your car ad now — your first 5 listings are free.