1. Provide information that allows an assessment, not a guess

The make, model and year are only the beginning. It is most useful to give the mileage, engine, gearbox, steering-wheel position, roadworthiness-inspection status, known faults, body damage, document status and current location straight away.

Photos are optional, but we recommend 3–6 images showing the front, rear, both sides, interior and damage. An honest description reduces the risk of the price being revised during inspection because of something that was not previously visible.

2. Separate the initial valuation from the final offer

A remote offer is based on the information you provide. The final amount is confirmed when the description can be compared with the car’s actual condition. Ask what specifically could change the price and whether collection is included.

A reliable agreement should not rely on a claim such as “we pay the most”. A clear amount, payment method, collection arrangements and confirmation that no new undisclosed fees will appear on site matter much more.

3. Use a written contract and enter the actual details

The seller, buyer, car, price and handover time must match in the contract. Record known faults, payment or its deadline, the number of keys and any other items being transferred. Never sign a blank or unexplained document.

Regitra publishes a recommended vehicle sale-contract template and advises including the Owner Declaration Code (SDK).

Official source: Regitra: vehicle sale contract (in Lithuanian)

4. SDK and the ownership-change declaration sequence

Under Regitra’s currently published procedure, for a vehicle already registered in Lithuania the buyer declares the acquisition within five working days, after which the seller confirms the submitted details within five working days. Deadlines and procedures may change, so check current Regitra information before the sale.

Regitra also recommends handing over the keys only after the buyer has declared and the seller has confirmed the ownership change. This is a practical control point, not merely a formality.

Official source: Regitra: vehicle sold to a Lithuanian resident (in Lithuanian)

5. Payment: cash or bank transfer

A bank transfer leaves a clear banking record. If you choose cash, clearly state in the contract or a separate receipt how much was received and when.

VMI states that cash payments under a single transaction are generally limited to €5,000 and a transaction must not be artificially split. A bank transfer is the practical choice for a larger amount. Check the rules in force at the time of the sale.

Official source: VMI: cash payments (in Lithuanian)

6. Checklist before handing over the car

Do not rely on memory when completing the sale. Work through a short checklist and ensure both parties keep a copy of the contract.

  • Both parties’ and the car’s details checked
  • Actual price, condition and SDK entered in the contract
  • Payment amount and method confirmed
  • Declaration steps completed in the agreed sequence
  • Keys, documents and agreed accessories handed over