OfferUp Cars for Sale: Complete Buying & Selling Guide

Also see our guides to Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist for complete marketplace coverage.

Why OfferUp for Car Shopping?

OfferUp has emerged as the third-largest marketplace for used cars, with over 500,000 active vehicle listings. While smaller than Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, OfferUp offers unique advantages: TruYou seller verification, excellent mobile experience, and less competition for deals.

For car flippers and buyers, OfferUp represents an underutilized opportunity. Many sellers list exclusively on OfferUp, and the platform's verification system helps filter out scammers before you waste time on bad deals.

OfferUp vs Other Platforms

TruYou Verification: OfferUp's Biggest Advantage

OfferUp's TruYou verification system is the platform's standout feature for car buyers. Verified sellers display a blue badge, indicating they've confirmed their identity through multiple methods.

TruYou Verification Levels

• Phone Verified: Basic verification through SMS confirmation
• Email Verified: Email address confirmed and active
• Facebook Connected: Social identity linked to profile
• ID Verified: Government ID scanned and confirmed

How to Buy Cars on OfferUp

Step 1: Set Up Your Search

• Download the OfferUp app (mobile experience is superior to web)
• Set your location and search radius (start with 50 miles)
• Search by make/model or browse the Cars & Trucks category
• Filter by price range, mileage, and seller type

Step 2: Evaluate Listings

• Check seller's TruYou verification status
• Review seller ratings and transaction history
• Look for detailed descriptions with clear photos
• Note how long the listing has been active (older = more negotiable)

Step 3: Make Contact

• Use in-app messaging for documentation
• Ask specific questions about vehicle condition, history, and reason for selling
• Request the VIN for a history check before meeting
• Suggest meeting at a public location or police station

Step 4: Negotiate and Close

• Use the "Make Offer" button for formal offers
• Start 15-20% below asking for negotiation room
• Bring cash or cashier's check for final payment
• Complete title transfer at DMV or notary

OfferUp Scam Prevention

Safe Transaction Practices

• Always meet in person: Never buy a car without inspecting it
• Use public locations: Police station parking lots are ideal
• Verify the VIN: Match it to the title and run a history report
• Check seller identity: Ensure ID matches title owner
• Bring someone: Don't go alone to view vehicles

Selling Cars on OfferUp

OfferUp can be an effective selling platform, especially when combined with Facebook and Craigslist for maximum exposure.

Optimize Your Listing

• Get TruYou verified: Buyers trust verified sellers significantly more
• Take quality photos: 10-15 photos including exterior, interior, engine, and any flaws
• Write detailed descriptions: Include year, make, model, mileage, condition, and maintenance history
• Price competitively: Check other platforms to ensure your price is reasonable
• Respond quickly: Fast responses lead to faster sales

OfferUp Selling Tips

• Boost your listing during peak hours (evenings and weekends)
• Cross-post to Facebook and Craigslist for more exposure
• Be responsive - buyers move on quickly
• Accept reasonable offers - holding out for maximum price costs time

When to Use OfferUp vs Other Platforms

Use OfferUp When:

• You want verified sellers for safety
• You prefer mobile-first shopping experience
• You're looking for less competition on deals
• You want in-app messaging for documentation

Use Facebook Marketplace When:

• You want the largest selection
• You need to find specific rare models
• You want to check seller profiles through mutual connections

Use Craigslist When:

• You want the deepest discounts
• You're willing to do extra verification
• You want more negotiation flexibility