You can buy a car from the manufacturer, but not in the way most people expect.
Many car buyers spend time visiting multiple dealerships, negotiating prices, and still struggle to find a model that fits their preferences without unwanted add-ons. An alternative solution is to place a factory order. This allows buyers to customize their vehicle to their specifications, avoiding unnecessary features and extra costs.
This article explains exactly how the process works, what sets it apart from a typical dealership purchase, and how to determine if it's the right move for you.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide
In this article, you will learn:
Whether it’s possible to buy directly from a manufacturer or if a dealer is still required
Step-by-step instructions for placing a factory order
Pros and cons of custom-ordering a car
Overview
Why Most People Don’t Know They Have a Choice
In an age where we customize everything from sneakers to smartphones, why are most car buyers still choosing from the leftovers? It’s because they don’t know there’s a better option.
Each year, thousands of buyers settle for vehicles "close enough" to what they want, avoiding the wait, or because they believe factory ordering is complicated. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
If you’ve ever walked onto a dealer lot and felt pressured to make a choice that didn’t feel right, this article is for you. Purchasing directly or placing a factory order provides greater control, avoids markups, offers more options, and often results in a better deal.
Can You Buy a New Car from the Manufacturer?
Yes, but the brands from which you can buy directly are limited. Most states require new cars to be sold through licensed car dealerships.
If you’re looking to purchase a vehicle from mainstream brands like Ford and Toyota, you still have the option of directly ordering from the factory, but this involves a dealer.
Buying Directly from the Manufacturer
Buying directly means purchasing from the manufacturer without intermediaries. This approach often includes a streamlined online buying experience with fixed pricing and fewer negotiations. It's designed to give buyers more control and transparency during the purchase process.
Only a few automakers offer this service, including:
Tesla: Sells its vehicles entirely online or through its own network of showrooms, bypassing the traditional dealership model.
Rivian: Lets customers order vehicles through its website and have them delivered directly or picked up at a designated Rivian service center.
Factory Ordering Through a Dealer
Factory ordering through a dealer means you choose your car’s specs and features, place a factory order, and wait while it’s built and delivered to your local dealer. In this case, the dealership acts more like a facilitator than a salesperson.
Car brands that offer factory ordering through dealerships:
Ford: Its Custom Order Program enables customers to design and order vehicles online, then submit their orders through their local Ford dealership. Popular models for factory ordering include the F-150, Mustang, and Bronco.
Toyota: Enables factory ordering through its Build & Price tool, but final orders must be processed through a dealer. Some high-demand vehicles, such as the RAV4 Hybrid or Tacoma, often require a custom factory request due to limited inventory.
Mercedes-Benz: Supports Build-to-Order programs through authorized dealerships. Buyers can select configurations, optional packages, and delivery timelines, particularly for premium models such as the E-Class or GLE.
Why Car Buyers Are Turning to Factory Orders in Today’s Market
Car buyers are seeking more control today, and factory orders are providing it to them.
Over the past few years, the automotive market has undergone significant changes. Most dealerships carry fewer cars on-site due to supply chain issues and production slowdowns. That means you’re less likely to find the exact trim, color, or package you want just sitting there waiting.
Instead of settling, more buyers are placing factory orders to skip the hassle and avoid inflated dealer markups. Today’s buyers are shifting away from impulse buying at many dealerships and toward custom-built cars that cater to their specific needs.
Here’s why it’s becoming a better choice:
Avoid price markups: When you factory-order a car, you're less likely to face surprise add-ons or inflated fees. Many buyers say this route helps them lock in a more predictable final negotiated price.
Get the features you want: Custom ordering lets you select only the features that matter to you, whether you wish heated rear seats, a specific paint color, or a panoramic roof.
Less pressure: You’re not rushed to decide based on what’s left on the lot. You have control over what is built and the timeline for its construction.
How the Factory Order Process Works (Step-by-Step)
Ordering a new car from the factory might sound complicated, but it’s a precise and repeatable process. Here’s how it works from start to finish:
1. Research Your Model and Options
Start by picking the vehicle you want. Visit the manufacturer’s website to explore trims, features, and packages. Consider factors such as fuel efficiency, safety features, tech upgrades, or a specific build-to-order combination.
2. Find a Dealer That Supports Factory Orders
Although you are ordering from the factory, you will still work with a local dealer. Call ahead to see if they assist with orders, as not all dealers offer this service.
3. Submit a Buyer’s Order for the Car
This document outlines the details of your order, including the price and expected timelines. Ask for a written agreement with an out-the-door price, not just the sticker price.
4. Place a Deposit (if Required)
Some dealers may request a refundable deposit to secure your order. Ensure you receive a receipt and written confirmation of what it covers.
5. Receive a Build Sheet and Estimated Delivery Date
Once the order is submitted, you’ll get a build sheet confirming your car’s specifications. Depending on demand, you’ll also receive an estimated delivery date, which ranges from a few weeks to several months.
6. Wait for the Vehicle to Be Built and Shipped
The hard part is waiting. During this time, stay in touch with your sales manager. Some manufacturers let you track your build status online.
7. Finalize the Purchase and Take Delivery
When your vehicle arrives, you’ll go to the dealership to complete the paperwork, arrange financing, and finalize your trade-in, if applicable. Some buyers also arrange for vehicle shipping directly from the dealership.
Pros and Cons of Ordering a Vehicle from a Factory
Ordering a vehicle from the factory has clear benefits, but it’s not perfect for everyone. Here’s how it stacks up.
Pros:
Avoid dealer markups: By ordering directly from the factory, you can avoid unexpected fees or inflated prices often encountered at dealerships.
Choose every feature you desire: Create a vehicle tailored to your preferences, from the trim level to the wheels.
Greater control over the final cost: You can negotiate the final price based on your chosen features, without being swayed by a sales pitch.
Cons:
Dependence on Dealerships: Even if you place an order directly with a manufacturer that permits it, most brands still require all transactions and paperwork to be completed through a local dealership.
Extended Delivery Times: You won’t be able to take your car home immediately; anticipate a waiting period that could span several months for your vehicle to be manufactured and delivered.
Limited Opportunities for Instant Discounts: Unlike vehicles in stock, factory-built cars seldom qualify for quick rebates or last-minute price reductions.
Insider Tips For a Smoother Car Deal
These tips can help your order go smoothly, prevent headaches, and ensure your new vehicle arrives without surprises.
Ask for the out-the-door price in writing.
Don’t settle for a quote based only on the sticker price. Before agreeing, ensure that all costs, fees, taxes, delivery charges, and additional expenses are clearly outlined.Plan financing and trade-in early.
If you’re trading in your old vehicle or applying for a loan, don’t wait until delivery day. Lock in your interest rate and compare offers early so you’re ready when your car arrives.Stay in touch with your sales manager.
After your order is placed, your sales manager is your go-to contact. Ask for regular updates. Some dealerships offer a tracking system or email alerts once your vehicle is built or shipped.
What to Watch Out For When Custom-Ordering
Ordering a car from the manufacturer can be smooth, but only if you know where the trouble spots are. Keep your eyes out for these common issues:
Dealers pushing in-stock models
Some dealers prefer to sell what’s already on their lot, as those vehicles tend to move faster and often come with more dealer-installed options. Don’t let them pressure you. If you want a factory order, stick to your plan.Delays with no updates
Timelines can shift. Sometimes, it’s due to supply chain issues, and at other times, it’s due to production delays. Stay connected with your salesperson and get realistic expectations on your delivery date. If things change, ensure that someone informs you of the reason.Surprise add-ons after the build
Even when you build your car to your exact specs, some dealerships add fees for accessories or services when it arrives. Ask early if any extras will be added to your factory build, and get that in writing.
Why Choose a Factory Order Car Over Dealership Inventory?
When you buy a car from the manufacturer, you skip the limitations of dealership lots. A factory order car lets you customize every detail, from engine type to interior color, ensuring you get exactly what you want without paying for unwanted extras. Unlike picking from in-stock models, a custom car order avoids dealer markups, which can inflate prices by thousands. According to industry data, 68% of car buyers research online before purchasing, and many prefer the control of a direct car purchase to avoid settling for "close enough" vehicles. This approach is ideal for those seeking specific trims or features, like a hybrid Toyota RAV4 or a fully loaded Ford Mustang.
How to Start the Car Factory Order Process Online
The car factory order process begins with research. Visit manufacturer websites like Ford’s Custom Order Program or Toyota’s Build & Price tool to explore options for your factory order car. These platforms let you select trims, colors, and packages for a custom car order. For example, Tesla’s online portal allows a complete direct car purchase without a dealership visit. Use tools like Google Keyword Planner to find popular search terms like “order new car online” to understand what buyers seek. Once you’ve configured your vehicle, contact a dealership that supports factory orders to submit your buy car from manufacturer request. Ensure they provide a detailed buyer’s order with transparent pricing.
Top Benefits of a Direct Car Purchase from Manufacturers
Opting for a direct car purchase or factory order car offers unmatched benefits. First, you avoid dealer-installed add-ons, which can increase costs by up to 20%. Second, a custom car order ensures you get features like advanced safety systems or premium audio without compromise. Third, negotiating a buy car from manufacturer deal often results in a predictable price, as you’re not pressured to buy in-stock models with inflated fees. For brands like Rivian, ordering online streamlines the car factory order process, saving time and reducing stress. This method aligns with the 92% of buyers who research online to find their ideal vehicle.
Common Challenges in the Car Factory Order Process
While a factory order car offers customization, it comes with challenges. Delivery times for a custom car order can range from 6 weeks to 6 months, depending on the manufacturer and model demand. Dealerships may push in-stock vehicles to clear inventory, so stay firm on your buy car from manufacturer plan. Some buyers face surprise fees upon delivery, so request a written out-the-door price early. Supply chain delays can also affect timelines, so regular communication with your dealer is key during the car factory order process. Proactively addressing these issues ensures a smoother order new car online experience.
How to Optimize Your Custom Car Order for Savings
To maximize savings on a custom car order, start by researching incentives. Some manufacturers offer loyalty discounts or seasonal promotions that apply to factory order cars. Compare financing options early to lock in low rates, as this can reduce the total cost of your direct car purchase. Avoid high-pressure upsells by confirming all fees in writing before placing your buy car from manufacturer order. For high-demand models like the Mercedes-Benz GLE, a car factory order process may bypass inflated market adjustments. Use tools like Ahrefs to track keywords like “order new car online” to stay informed on market trends.
Shipping Your Factory Order Car with AmeriFreight
Once your factory order car is built, you may need to transport it from the factory or dealership to your location. AmeriFreight specializes in reliable vehicle shipping, ensuring your custom car order arrives safely. Whether you buy a car from the manufacturer like Tesla or order through a dealer, our services simplify the final step. Get a free quote for your direct car purchase delivery and avoid the hassle of long-distance drives. Our expertise in order new car online shipping makes us the trusted choice for seamless vehicle transport. Learn more at AmeriFreight’s website and plan your delivery today.
Final Thoughts: Build to Order Your Car
Buying a car from the manufacturer doesn’t have to be confusing. Factory ordering is one of the most innovative ways to get the vehicle you want without paying extra for things you don’t want. You can select the features that best meet your needs, without the pressure of high-pressure sales tactics or dealer markups.
Buying direct gives you control of the process and allows you to design a vehicle that aligns with your lifestyle and preferences—rather than settling for a model that doesn’t reflect your needs.
Need to Ship Your Car?
If your car is built in another state, or if you don’t want to drive it off the lot, arrange safe transport. AmeriFreight Car Shipping provides trusted solutions to transport your car from the factory to your doorstep.
Learn more about our services from these guides:
Get your free instant quote now and let us be your partner.
FAQs for Buying a Car from the Manufacturer
What is the 20/4-10 rule for buying a car?
The 20/4-10 rule suggests making a 20% down payment, financing the car for no more than 4 years, and keeping total vehicle expenses under 10% of your monthly income.
How long does it take to order new car online?
The car factory order process typically takes 6-12 weeks, depending on the brand and model. High-demand vehicles may take longer due to production schedules.
Can I negotiate a factory order car price?
Yes, you can negotiate a factory order car price with the dealership. Request a written out-the-door price to avoid surprises during your buy car from manufacturer process.
Which brands allow a direct car purchase?
Tesla and Rivian offer a direct car purchase model, while Ford, Toyota, and Mercedes-Benz support custom car orders through dealerships.
How does AmeriFreight help with factory order car delivery?
AmeriFreight provides trusted shipping for your factory order car, ensuring safe delivery from the factory or dealership to your doorstep. Get your free quote today.
