One of the great features of online car buying is having your car delivered to your driveway. But timelines vary wildly between retailers and platforms. Here's what to actually expect in 2026.
Cazoo: 3–10 Days Typical
Cazoo's standard delivery sits within a 3–10 day window from order. They prep the car, MOT it, photograph it (often before sale), and arrange transport from their nearest hub.
If you're flexible, they sometimes offer slightly faster turnarounds. If you live remote, expect the longer end of the range.
Cinch: 3–7 Days Typical
Cinch is generally a touch faster than Cazoo on delivery. Their inventory is more centrally managed and most cars are delivery-ready within days. 5 days is the most common timeframe in our experience.
Dealer-Listed (AutoTrader, Motors.co.uk): 0–14 Days
Hugely variable. Some dealers offer same-day collection if the car is sale-ready. Others have backlogs of prep work and need 1–2 weeks. Always confirm before you commit.
Most dealers prefer collection but will arrange transport for £100–£500 depending on distance. Some include this for free above a certain price point.
Private Sellers (eBay, Facebook Marketplace): As Long As You Can Get There
Private sellers don't deliver. You arrange your own collection. Most buyers drive to pick up; some use professional transport services (£200–£600 depending on distance).
If you're buying outside your area, factor in your time and travel costs honestly.
What Happens Between Order and Delivery
For online retailers like Cazoo and Cinch, the timeline typically goes:
- Order placed. Deposit taken or full payment, depending on payment method.
- Final inspection and prep. Some checks are completed only after order to ensure the car is ready.
- Documentation. V5C transferred to you, paperwork prepared.
- Transport arranged. Car loaded onto a transporter or driven by a delivery driver.
- Delivery slot agreed. Usually a 2-hour window, sometimes a same-day notification.
- Arrival, handover and 7/14-day return clock starts.
Things That Slow Delivery
- Outstanding finance. Even if the car is sale-ready, finance settlement adds days.
- Bank holidays. UK bank holidays can add 1–2 days.
- Geographic remoteness. Highlands, islands, Northern Ireland and the very far South-West routinely add days.
- Buyer payment delays. Cleared funds are required before transport begins.
Things That Speed Delivery
- Flexibility on collection vs delivery. Collecting is almost always faster.
- Off-peak ordering. Mid-week orders deliver faster than weekend orders.
- Choosing a car already in a hub near you. Some retailers show "fastest delivery" filters.
Insurance on Delivery Day
You must have insurance before the delivery driver hands you the keys. Both Cazoo and Cinch will require proof of insurance before completing handover.
Plan to set up insurance to start on the morning of delivery.
The Bottom Line
Realistically, plan for one week between online purchase and the car appearing on your driveway. Cinch is fastest on average; Cazoo is close behind. For dealer-listed and private cars, plan based on collection logistics rather than delivery promises.