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When you get management system software, one of your choices will be between companies that handle dealerships in one state only and those that offer software that can track transactions and more in multiple states. Because laws change once you cross state lines, you need management software that is programmed to use that state's tax percentages and programmed to request the appropriate paperwork from buyers in each state. There's something to be said for both types, but the real determining issue has to do with your needs and your dealership's setup.

Customer Service and the Laws That Affect You

You'll want good customer service from the software company, right? You'll need customer service that is thoroughly versed in the laws in your state. If you are a multi-state company, you'll want customer service that can address problems in each state. But if you have dealerships in just one state, then a software company that focuses just on that state could be wonderful. The reps would be able to concentrate on learning the laws for just that state alone, and there would be no confusion with reps potentially making a mistake and giving you advice that is not applicable in your state.

Handling Chains That Cross State Lines

If you own more than one dealership, however, and you have dealerships in more than one state, it makes no sense to have several management systems. In this case, you absolutely want to have one management system that handles multiple states. That makes it much easier to create summary reports of overall sales, move cars across state lines between dealerships, and keep track of hours and pay when employees travel from one dealership to another. Using different management systems for each state would be pointless and just make things harder for you.

For example, if you were transferring a vehicle between a dealership in New Mexico and a dealership in Arizona because a customer in Arizona was interested in the car, multi-state software could pull up lists of forms needed to transfer the car between those two states and create a file shared by both dealerships. If both used different software, however, you might not have that convenience.

When you look for software, be aware that some companies also handle multiple states that are in the same time zone or same region only. Start calling around and asking about where the software can be used. When you find the right one, your ability to run your dealerships will see a jump in efficiency.

If you're looking to get started with a software, consider contacting a company like EverLogic to get started.