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Hemmings 2026 Review: Pricing, Pros, and Cons
Buying or selling a classic car on Hemmings can be a good experience if you understand how the platform works. Hemmings has been a trusted place for collectors since 1954, but the fees, seller quality, and buyer expectations can vary.
This guide explains Hemmings in a clear and straightforward way. You’ll learn how the platform works, what you’ll pay in fees, and what real users say about their experiences. By the end, you’ll have a better sense of whether Hemmings fits your classic car search or sale.
What You'll Learn
How Hemmings works for buyers and sellers
How much Hemmings charges in listing and auction fees
Common pros and cons from real buyers and sellers
How Hemmings compares to other classic-car platforms
Key Takeaways
Hemmings is the longest-running classic car marketplace, with listings for vintage and collector vehicles across the country. Sellers pay $99.95 for auctions or make-offer listings and $149.95 for classified ads.
Buyers pay a 5% auction fee, with a $500 minimum and $10,000 maximum. Hemmings has an A+ BBB rating, but customer reviews are mixed, with some reporting issues with seller accuracy and limited support after purchases.
What Is Hemmings?
Hemmings is an online marketplace focused on classic and vintage cars. Unlike regular car websites, Hemmings caters specifically to collectors and enthusiasts who want older vehicles. The platform lets you browse thousands of listings, bid in auctions, and sell your own classic cars to serious buyers.
The company started in 1954 when Ernest Hemmings founded Hemmings Motor News in Quincy, Illinois. What began as a printed magazine grew into a major website serving the collector car community. Today, Hemmings attracts buyers and sellers from across the United States who are passionate about vintage vehicles.
How Hemmings Work
Hemmings connects buyers and sellers of classic and vintage vehicles. The platform focuses on collector cars, making it easier to find unique, older vehicles than on general car-selling websites.
Buying on Hemmings
Buyers can choose from three formats:
Classified Listings
You contact the seller directly, negotiate a price, and complete the sale privately.
Auctions
Hemmings hosts seven-day online auctions where buyers bid on vehicles.
Make Offer
Sellers set an asking price and can accept or reject offers.
Buyer Auction Fee
Hemmings charges buyers a 5 percent fee on winning bids.
Minimum: $500
Maximum: $10,000
Selling on Hemmings
Sellers choose one of three listing options:
Auction – $99.95
Your car goes through approval and is featured in a seven-day auction. If bids do not reach your reserve, the listing becomes a free six-month make-offer listing.
Make Offer – $99.95
Your listing stays active for six months. Buyers submit offers, and you respond directly.
Classified Ad – $149.95
Your car appears on the website and in Hemmings Motor News magazine for one month.
Hemmings Pricing & Fees
Here's what you'll pay:
Example: If you buy a classic car for $50,000 in an auction, you pay $2,500 as the buyer's fee (5% of $50,000). The seller paid $99.95 upfront to list the auction.
Hemmings Pros and Cons
Is Hemmings Trustworthy?
Hemmings has a solid reputation in the classic car community. Here's what you should know:
Business History: Hemmings Motor News started in 1954 and has operated for more than 70 years. The company publishes the monthly Hemmings Motor News magazine and owns one of the largest classic car databases online.
BBB Rating: Hemmings holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, though it's not BBB accredited. The company has been in the BBB system since 1997 and maintains 130 employees at its Bennington, Vermont headquarters.
Customer Reviews: Reviews are mixed. On Trustpilot, Hemmings scores 3 out of 5 stars. Some buyers say they had great experiences finding rare cars. Others complain about seller issues, such as cars arriving with hidden problems or misleading descriptions.
According to Consumer Affairs, common complaints include inconsistent seller quality and minimal dispute resolution. One buyer on Reddit reported receiving a car with undisclosed issues despite the listing stating repairs had been completed.
Common Complaints:
Sellers listed items that were misrepresented in photos or descriptions
Difficulty reaching customer service to report problems
No buyer protection if you discover issues after purchase
High fees relative to the vehicle price on cheaper cars
The Bottom Line: Hemmings is trustworthy as a platform and marketplace. However, not all sellers are reliable. You need to do your homework on the specific seller, ask detailed questions, request additional photos or videos, and ideally inspect the car before you buy.
Hemmings vs. Similar Platforms
Who Hemmings Works Best For
Best For:
Shoppers looking for classic or vintage vehicles
Sellers who want a collector-focused audience
Buyers are comfortable with bidding fees
Enthusiasts searching nationwide
Not Best For:
Shoppers on tight budgets
Buyers who want protection or guarantees
First-time classic-car buyers needing guided support
Local-only transactions
Final Thoughts
Hemmings is worth using if you're serious about classic cars. The platform connects you with real enthusiasts and collectors, offering a wide selection of vehicles from affordable project cars to high-end restored classics.
However, success on Hemmings requires careful research. Do your homework on sellers, ask lots of questions, and request videos and extra photos. Consider hiring a third-party inspector for expensive purchases. Understand that fees are part of the deal, and don't expect the same level of buyer protection you'd get on modern car sites.
Once you find the classic car you want, you’ll need a reliable way to bring it home. Classic cars often have delicate finishes, older parts, and valuable interiors that need extra care during transport.
Ship Your Classic Car with AmeriFreight Auto Transport
AmeriFreight Auto Transport offers top-rated car shipping services across the United States. We connect you with licensed and insured carriers to help ensure your vehicle arrives safely.
What We Offer
Nationwide shipping across the continental U.S.
Open and enclosed carrier options for standard and luxury vehicles
Multi-vehicle transport for dealers and wholesale buyers
Flexible pickup scheduling coordinated with auction dates
Licensed and bonded auto transport broker (DOT MC-597401, USDOT-2238770)
Whether you're moving across the country, buying a car from another state, or relocating for work, we make car shipping simple.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Hemmings trustworthy?
Yes. Hemmings has been in business since 1954 and has an A+ BBB rating. Seller quality varies, so buyers should always ask questions, request photos, and consider inspections before completing a sale.
How much does it cost to list a car on Hemmings?
Auction and make-offer listings cost $99.95. Classified ads cost $149.95.
How do Hemmings auctions work?
Auctions last seven days. Buyers place bids, and the highest bidder wins if the reserve is met. The buyer pays a 5 percent fee on the final sale price.
Are buyers protected on Hemmings?
No. Hemmings does not offer buyer guarantees or post-sale protection. All transactions are handled between buyers and sellers.
Does Hemmings verify sellers?
Some listings go through review, but sellers are not fully verified. Buyers should research each seller directly.
Disclaimer: This post is for general information only and does not provide legal, financial, or tax advice. Always consult with a licensed professional before making decisions related to vehicle sales or financing.
