Running a dealership or service department comes with a lot of moving parts — paperwork, inspections, branding, lot decor, and everything in between. We put together this guide to answer the questions we hear most often from dealers and shop owners, covering everything from FTC compliance forms to the right marker for writing on a windshield. Use the table of contents below to jump straight to the section you need.
Table of Contents
- Dealership Paperwork
- Vehicle Inspection Forms
- Car Window Markers
- License Plate Screws
- Stickers & Decals
- Repair Orders & Service Forms
- Flags, Lot Decoration & Key Management
- Customization & Wholesale
- Air Fresheners & New Car Smell
- Service Department Supplies
- Floor Mats
- Test Drive & Sales Forms
Dealership Paperwork FAQs
What paperwork is required when selling a car at a dealership?
A complete dealership sale involves several documents. For used vehicles, the FTC Buyer's Guide is federally required. Beyond that, standard paperwork includes a purchase agreement or sales contract, odometer disclosure statement, title transfer, bill of sale, financing or lease agreement (if applicable), and any trade-in appraisal forms. Some states have additional requirements. All of this paperwork is typically collected and stored in a deal jacket for the dealership's records.
What is a Buyer's Guide and is it required by law?
FTC Buyer's Guide forms are required for all used vehicles offered for sale. These window stickers must be displayed in the driver-side window and clearly communicate warranty information to customers. This is a federal requirement enforced by the Federal Trade Commission — not optional. US Auto Supplies offers Buyer's Guide forms in both laser-printable and tape-strip formats, including As-Is, Implied Warranty, and Spanish-language versions to support compliance and sales transparency.
What is a dealer addendum sticker?
Dealer addendum stickers are window labels used by car dealerships to clearly explain dealer-installed features, upgrades, and pricing adjustments that were not included by the manufacturer. These stickers help customers understand why similar vehicles may differ in price or equipment, even when those differences are not immediately visible. Unlike the Buyer's Guide, dealer addendum stickers are optional but widely used to improve transparency and support the sales process. They're available in custom window stickers, tape-strip, laser-printable, blank, and pre-printed formats.
What is a due bill (we-owe form) and when is it used?
A due bill — also called a "we-owe" form — is a written commitment from the dealership to the buyer documenting something promised as part of the deal that wasn't completed at the time of sale. This could be a second key, a repair, floor mats, an oil change, or any other item or service. It's signed by both parties and serves as a binding record of that obligation. It's used any time the dealership needs to deliver on a promise after the vehicle has already been delivered to the customer.
What forms do I need to complete a used car sale?
A used car sale typically requires the FTC Buyer's Guide (federally required), a signed purchase agreement, an odometer disclosure statement, the title, a bill of sale, and any financing documents. If the vehicle was traded in, you'll also need an appraisal form and potentially a separate trade-in agreement. A due bill should be completed if any items are owed to the buyer post-sale. All of these documents are organized and stored together in a deal jacket.
What is an odometer disclosure statement?
An odometer disclosure statement is a federally required form for most vehicle sales in which the seller certifies the mileage reading on the odometer at the time of sale. It's intended to protect buyers from odometer fraud. Federal law (the Truth in Mileage Act) requires this disclosure for vehicles under a certain age. Both the seller and buyer sign the form, and it's retained as part of the deal jacket.
What is a deal jacket and what goes in it?
Vehicle deal jackets, also known as car dealer record envelopes, are indispensable for maintaining organization and consistency in dealership sales paperwork. These tools store all vehicle sales records and related documentation for vehicles sold at the dealership, ensuring that everything is systematically archived and easily accessible. A deal jacket typically contains the purchase agreement, Buyer's Guide copy, odometer statement, title documents, financing paperwork, trade-in forms, any due bills, and other deal-related records. Vehicle deal jackets typically feature printed checklists, helping ensure that the car sales process remains consistent and compliant. They're available in multiple colors and styles to help dealerships organize deals by type, department, or category. Learn everything there is to know about deal jackets in our blog "What Are Vehicle Deal Jackets? A Buyers Guide for Dealerships."
Do dealerships need a notice to cosigner form?
Yes, when a vehicle purchase involves a cosigner on a financing agreement, a Notice to Cosigner (also called a Co-Signer Notice) is required under the FTC's Credit Practices Rule. This form informs the cosigner of their obligations and liability before they sign — specifically, that they may be responsible for the full debt if the primary borrower defaults. It must be provided before the cosigner assumes the obligation and should be kept as part of the deal jacket.
Vehicle Inspection Forms FAQs
What is a multi-point vehicle inspection checklist?
A multi-point vehicle inspection checklist is a standardized form used by service technicians to evaluate multiple systems and components of a vehicle during a service visit. It typically covers areas like brakes, tires, fluids, belts, lights, filters, and more — giving the technician a structured way to document the vehicle's condition and communicate findings to both the service advisor and the customer. US Auto Supplies carries a wide selection of multi-point inspection checklist forms for dealerships and independent repair shops alike, including generic versions as well as brand-specific forms for GM, Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Chrysler, KIA, Mazda, and Volkswagen.
What is a 27-point inspection?
A 27-point inspection is a structured vehicle checkup that evaluates 27 specific systems or components in a single service visit. It's a common format used by service departments to provide customers with a thorough overview of their vehicle's condition without requiring a full diagnostic. US Auto Supplies offers a dedicated 27-point inspection checklist designed to make this process quick and consistent for service writers and technicians.
What should be on a vehicle check-in sheet?
A vehicle check-in sheet captures key information at the moment a customer drops off their car — typically including the customer's name and contact info, vehicle year, make, model, and VIN, current mileage, reason for visit, any customer-reported concerns, and notes on existing exterior damage. It serves as a record of the vehicle's condition before service begins, which protects both the customer and the dealership. US Auto Supplies offers a vehicle check-in sheet as well as a pre-service check-in sheet for service departments that prefer a more detailed intake process. Learn everything you need to know about Vehicle Inspection Sheets on our blog.
What's the difference between a multi-point and a standard inspection form?
A standard inspection form typically focuses on a specific service — like an oil change or tire rotation — and documents only what was done. A multi-point inspection form goes broader, systematically checking numerous vehicle systems beyond the immediate service request and rating their condition (often using a color-coded system like green/yellow/red). The multi-point format is designed to surface additional repair or maintenance needs and communicate them clearly to the customer. US Auto Supplies carries both multi-point vehicle inspection forms and vehicle inspection and estimate forms depending on your workflow.
Do I need a separate checklist for pre-owned vehicle inspections?
It's a best practice, yes. Pre-owned vehicle inspections are typically more comprehensive than routine service inspections — they need to assess the overall condition of the vehicle before it's certified or put on the lot. A dedicated checklist ensures nothing gets missed and creates a documented record of the vehicle's condition at acquisition. For thorough pre-owned evaluations, US Auto Supplies offers a 172-point inspection checklist that covers the vehicle in exceptional detail, making it well-suited for used car inspections and certification processes.
What does a service department vehicle inspection sheet look like?
Service department inspection sheets are typically single or multi-part forms that list vehicle systems and components in organized sections — often with checkboxes or condition ratings for each item. Many use a traffic light color system (green for good, yellow for monitor, red for immediate attention) to make findings easy for customers to understand at a glance. They usually include space for technician notes, recommended services, and estimated repair costs. US Auto Supplies offers several formats including the vehicle check-up form, vehicle inspection worksheet, and custom multi-point inspection forms if your service department needs a branded or custom-layout version.
Car Window Markers FAQs
What markers do dealerships use to write on car windows?
Car dealerships typically use paint markers specifically designed for automotive glass — these are sometimes called windshield markers or window paint pens. The most common types used on lots are POSCA markers, Uni Paint markers, and X-treme solid paint markers. Each has its own use case depending on how bold, how permanent, and how weather-resistant you need the writing to be. US Auto Supplies carries a full selection of windshield markers and window paint pens suited for dealership use. Learn all about dealership markers in our blog: Best Markers for Car Windows: A Dealership Guide.
Can you use POSCA markers on car windows?
Yes — POSCA markers are one of the most popular choices for car lot window writing. They produce bright, opaque color on glass and are water-based, making them relatively easy to remove when it's time to update pricing or promotions. US Auto Supplies carries POSCA markers in both a 5/8 inch wide tip for bold lot signage and a 1/4 inch fine tip for more detailed writing.
What is the best marker for writing on car windows?
It depends on your needs. For short-term promotions and easy removal, POSCA water-based paint markers are a great choice — they go on cleanly and wipe off without much effort. For longer-lasting outdoor displays that need to hold up against tougher weather, Uni Paint and X-treme solid paint markers are better suited. US Auto Supplies offers all three types: POSCA markers, Uni Paint window markers, and solid paint markers for a more permanent application.
How do you remove window markers from car glass without damaging tint?
For water-based markers like POSCA, a damp cloth or glass cleaner is usually all you need. For more permanent paint markers, a razor blade held at a low angle on the exterior glass works well — but should only ever be used on the outside of the window. Never use a razor blade on tinted glass or interior window surfaces, as it can scratch or peel the tint film. For tinted windows, use a tint-safe glass cleaner and a soft cloth. It's also worth noting that most dealership window markers are designed to be applied on the exterior glass only, which avoids tint damage altogether.
Are water-based or tempera markers better for outdoor car lots?
Water-based paint markers like POSCA are generally the better choice for car lots over tempera markers. Tempera markers are more prone to running and fading when exposed to rain or humidity, while water-based paint markers offer better adhesion to glass and more weather resistance for short-term outdoor use. For lots that need writing to hold up through changing weather over a longer period, solid or oil-based paint markers like the Uni Paint or X-treme solid markers are the more durable option.
What tip size window marker is best for lot pricing?
For writing large, visible pricing numbers on windshields, a wide tip marker is the way to go. The POSCA 5/8 inch wide tip marker is a popular choice for lot pricing because it creates bold strokes that are easy to read from a distance. The 1/4 inch fine tip POSCA is better suited for smaller details, feature callouts, or writing in tighter spaces. Standard windshield markers are also available in wide tip formats designed specifically for high-visibility lot use.
How long do car window markers last outdoors?
It depends on the marker type and weather conditions. Water-based POSCA markers are designed for short-term use and can hold up through light rain, but heavy weather or direct sun exposure will shorten their lifespan. Uni Paint and X-treme solid paint markers are built for more extended outdoor use and will generally last longer in harsh conditions. For most dealerships, the right approach is to match the marker to the job — POSCA for weekly pricing updates, and more permanent markers for long-running promotions or display vehicles. Learn more on our blog.
License Plate Screws FAQs
What size screws are used for license plates?
License plate screws in the US come in two main sizes depending on the vehicle: American standard (also called imperial) and metric. The most common American size is 1/4-14 x 3/4 inch, while metric sizes are typically M6 x 1.0. Most dealerships keep both sizes on hand since their inventory will include a mix of domestic and imported vehicles. US Auto Supplies carries license plate screws in both American and metric sizes to cover the full range of vehicle makes. Learn more about all things plate screws on our blog License Plate Screws: Common Screw Sizes, Standard/Metric Options, Screw Types & Dealership Solutions.
What is the standard license plate bolt size in the US?
For domestic vehicles, the standard license plate screw size is generally 1/4-14 x 3/4 inch — this fits most American-made cars and trucks. However, many imported vehicles use metric fasteners, so there isn't one universal size that fits every car on the road. Dealerships that handle a variety of makes will want to stock both. US Auto Supplies offers American slotted hex head screws for domestic vehicles and metric hex head screws for imported makes.
Are license plate screws metric or standard?
Both — it depends on the vehicle. Domestic vehicles like those from Ford, GM, and Chrysler typically use American standard screws, while most imported vehicles from brands like Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and Volkswagen use metric screws. This is why dealerships benefit from stocking both types. US Auto Supplies carries a full range including American thumb screws, metric thumb screws, metric hex head, and metric hex flange head options.
What screws do dealerships use for license plates?
Dealerships typically use a combination of screw styles depending on the application. Thumb screws are popular because they can be installed and removed by hand without tools — convenient when plates are being swapped frequently during the sales process. Hex head screws offer a more secure, tool-tightened fit for final vehicle delivery. For installations that include a license plate frame, truss head screws are a common choice because their wider bearing surface sits flush against the frame. US Auto Supplies stocks all of these styles including thumb screws, duo-drive truss head, slotted pan head, slotted hex washer head, and slotted truss head screws. Adding nylon screw inserts is also a smart practice to protect the plate and frame from vibration damage.
Do different car makes use different license plate screw sizes?
Yes. Domestic vehicles — Ford, GM, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, and Ram — generally use American standard screws, while most imported brands — Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, BMW, Mercedes, and Volkswagen — use metric screws. Some vehicles may also have varying hole spacing or depth, which is why having a variety of screw styles on hand is important for any dealership handling multiple makes. Pairing the right screws with your license plate frames or custom plate inserts also ensures a clean, professional installation every time.
Stickers & Decals FAQs
What is an oil change reminder sticker and how does it work?
An oil change reminder sticker is a small label placed on the inside of a vehicle's windshield after a service visit to remind the customer when their next oil change is due. The technician fills in the next service date and/or mileage at the time of the visit, giving the customer a quick visual reference every time they get in the car. It's one of the simplest and most effective tools a service department can use to drive repeat business. US Auto Supplies carries oil change reminder stickers and service reminder stickers in both generic and custom versions, available in static cling and light adhesive formats.
What size are standard oil change stickers?
Most standard oil change reminder stickers are sized to fit in the upper corner of a windshield without obstructing the driver's view — typically around 2" x 2.5" to 2" x 3.5" depending on the style and format. US Auto Supplies offers stickers in several formats including boxed sheet labels and roll labels designed to work with machine printing systems for high-volume service departments.
What is a 'this vehicle is not for sale' sticker used for?
Not For Sale stickers help dealerships clearly identify vehicles that are not yet ready for retail sale. Commonly used on recent trade-ins, auction purchases, service vehicles, and inventory awaiting inspection or reconditioning, these stickers provide an easy way to communicate vehicle status to customers and dealership staff. They also serve an important compliance function — under FTC rules, a used vehicle offered for sale must display a Buyer's Guide, so a Not For Sale sticker signals that the vehicle isn't being offered for sale yet. US Auto Supplies carries Not For Sale stickers in both "Not For Sale" and "Not Ready For Sale" versions, printed in red on bright yellow stock for high visibility.
What are domed decals and where are they used at dealerships?
Domed decals are a type of raised, three-dimensional decal made by applying a clear polyurethane dome over a printed label. The dome gives the decal a glossy, premium look and makes it more durable and resistant to scratching, fading, and weather. At dealerships, domed decals are most commonly used on license plate frames to display the dealership's name and branding in a polished, long-lasting format. They can also appear on key tags, service department items, or promotional materials where a higher-end branded look is desired. For dealership branding on vehicles, they pair well with custom license plate frames and custom plate inserts.
Can I get custom oil change stickers with my shop's logo?
Yes. Custom oil change stickers are a popular way for dealerships and independent shops to reinforce their brand with every service visit. US Auto Supplies offers custom write-on oil change stickers printed with your shop's name, logo, phone number, and contact information, as well as custom machine-printable oil change stickers designed for use with a label printer system. For high-volume shops, two-sided custom oil change stickers are also available, allowing your branding to be visible from both inside and outside the vehicle. Read our blog Custom Oil Change Stickers: A Simple Way to Keep Customers Coming Back
What's the difference between a static cling and an adhesive sticker?
A static cling sticker uses static electricity to adhere to glass — no glue involved — which makes it easy to reposition and remove without leaving any residue. It's a great option for service reminders that may need to be replaced frequently or for customers who prefer a cleaner removal. An adhesive sticker uses a light glue backing to bond to the surface, giving it slightly better staying power, especially in varying temperatures or on vehicles that get washed frequently. US Auto Supplies offers oil change reminder stickers in both static cling and light adhesive formats so you can choose the option that best fits your service department's workflow.
Repair Orders & Service Forms FAQs
What should be on a standard auto repair order form?
A standard auto repair order form should capture all the key details needed to document and complete a service job from start to finish. This typically includes the customer's name, address, and contact information, vehicle year, make, model, VIN, license plate number, and current mileage, along with a description of the customer's complaint or requested service. The form should also have sections for labor operations and technician notes, parts used, labor charges, parts charges, and a total cost breakdown. A customer authorization signature line is essential, as is space for the advisor's name and the date the vehicle was written up. US Auto Supplies carries several auto repair work order forms designed with these fields built in, making it easy to stay organized and consistent across every service visit.
What is an RO (repair order) in an auto shop?
An RO, or repair order, is the primary document that tracks a vehicle through the service process from the moment it's written up to the moment it's invoiced and returned to the customer. It serves as the official record of what work was authorized, what was performed, what parts were used, and what the customer was charged. In most shops the RO also functions as the internal work ticket that travels with the vehicle and communicates job details to the technician. US Auto Supplies offers repair order forms in multiple formats including the popular RO-600-3 three-part form, the RO-664-3 work order form, and the RO-665-4 four-part form for shops that need additional copies.
Do I need a signed repair estimate before starting work?
In most states, yes — shops are legally required to provide a written estimate and obtain customer authorization before beginning repair work. This protects both the customer and the shop by establishing agreed-upon scope and cost upfront. The customer's signature on the estimate or repair order serves as documented authorization and gives the shop a legal basis for billing if disputes arise. US Auto Supplies carries repair estimate forms designed specifically for this purpose, as well as auto repair work orders that include authorization signature fields built into the form.
What is the difference between a repair order and an estimate form?
A repair estimate form is used before work begins — it outlines the anticipated cost of labor and parts for a proposed repair and is presented to the customer for approval. A repair order is the working document that gets created once the customer authorizes the job — it tracks everything that actually happens during the service visit, including technician notes, actual parts used, and final charges. In some shops a single form serves both purposes, while others use separate forms to keep the estimate and the completed work order distinct. US Auto Supplies offers both repair estimate forms and multi-part repair order forms to support whichever workflow fits your operation.
Are there standard repair order form sizes for automotive shops?
The most common repair order form size is 8.5" x 11" — standard letter size — which fits easily into work order holders, racks, and filing systems. US Auto Supplies offers auto repair work order forms in multiple sizes and formats, including 3-part and 4-part versions. Multi-part forms use carbonless paper so that each copy captures the same information simultaneously — one copy stays with the shop, one goes to the technician, and one goes to the customer. Completed repair orders are typically stored in repair order jackets or work order jackets and organized using a repair order rack while jobs are active, then filed for record keeping once complete.
Flags, Lot Decoration & Key Management FAQs
What type of flags do car dealerships use?
Dealerships use several different types of flags depending on the goal. Car window flags clip directly onto vehicle windows and are one of the most common — available in American flag styles, manufacturer brand logos, solid colors, checkered patterns, and sales slogans. Swooper and feather flags mount on poles and are tall, eye-catching options used along the roadside or entrance to draw attention from passing traffic. Antenna pennants attach to car antennas to add color and movement across the lot. Bracket pole flags mount to existing poles or buildings for a more permanent display. Windshield banners span the windshield for bold, vehicle-level messaging. US Auto Supplies carries all of these styles including car window flags, swooper feather flags, bracket pole flags, and American flags. For grand opening ideas that put these to work, check out our blog on 8 Cool and Effective Grand Opening Promotion Ideas for Car Dealerships.
How do dealership antenna flags attach to car antennas?
Antenna flags and pennants are designed with a small sleeve or clip that slides over the tip of a vehicle's antenna, allowing the flag to wave freely in the wind. They're quick to install and remove, making them easy to rotate across inventory as needed. US Auto Supplies carries antenna flag pennants in packs of a dozen, as well as custom car antenna flags for dealerships that want branded or color-specific options.
What are pennant strings and how long do they come?
Pennant strings are continuous strings of triangular flags — typically made from poly or metallic material — that are strung across a car lot, roofline, or fence line to create a colorful, festive display. They're one of the most cost-effective ways to add visual energy to a dealership and help catch the eye of passing traffic. US Auto Supplies offers pennant strings in multiple sizes and lengths, with triangle pennant options in 6" x 18", 9" x 12", and 12" x 18" formats, as well as metallic pennants, patriotic pennants, checkered pennant strings, and custom pennant options for specific branding needs.
What size is a standard car dealership flag?
It depends on the flag type. Car window flags are typically small — designed to fit on or clip to a vehicle window — while swooper and feather flags are tall and narrow, generally ranging from 8 to 15 feet in height when mounted on a pole. Bracket pole flags tend to be wider and rectangular for maximum visibility from a distance. Windshield banners are designed to span the full width of a vehicle's windshield. US Auto Supplies offers swooper flag poles and bases separately so you can choose the right height for your lot setup, and car windshield banners in standard sizes that fit most vehicles.
What's the difference between a feather flag and a standard lot flag?
A feather flag (also called a swooper flag) is a tall, narrow flag on a curved pole that gives it a distinctive wave-like shape — it's designed to move with the wind and grab attention at a distance, making it ideal for roadside placement or dealership entrances. A standard lot flag, like a car window flag or bracket flag, is more stationary and typically used for vehicle-level or building-level signage. Feather flags tend to be more visible from the road, while window and bracket flags work better for communicating specific messages or branding up close. US Auto Supplies carries both swooper feather flag kits and a full range of standard car lot flags to mix and match across your lot.
How do I display a large car bow for a vehicle gifting photo?
For the best gifting photo, place the bow on the roof or hood of the vehicle — the most visible and photogenic spot. Magnetic attachment bows are the easiest to position securely on metal surfaces without sliding. A 30-inch bow is the most popular size for photos as it's large enough to make a statement without overwhelming the vehicle. For an even more dramatic effect, the 43-inch giant velvet bow creates a truly unforgettable reveal moment. US Auto Supplies carries large car bows in 22-inch and 30-inch sizes, a giant 43-inch red velvet bow, and a 34-inch suction cup bow for vehicles where magnets won't attach. Holiday, birthday, and patriotic versions are also available. Learn more about the Power of a Car Bow here.
What are key tags used for at a dealership?
Key tags help dealerships keep vehicle keys organized, labeled, and easy to locate across sales and service departments. On the sales side, key tags are attached to each vehicle's keys and typically display the stock number, year, make, model, and sometimes the price — making it fast to match a key to the right car on the lot. In the service department, key tags help identify customer vehicles, track repair order numbers, and prevent mix-ups when multiple vehicles are in the shop at the same time. US Auto Supplies offers a wide selection including Versa Tags, poly key tags, self-locking key tags, arrow key tags, and blank key tags in a variety of colors and styles.
What is an after-hours key drop box?
An after-hours key drop box is a secure, wall-mounted or post-mounted box that allows service customers to drop off their vehicle keys outside of business hours. The customer fills out a night drop envelope with their vehicle information and service requests, seals their key inside, and drops it through a slot in the box. The service department retrieves the envelopes the next morning and begins processing the appointments. It's an essential tool for any service department looking to improve customer convenience and capture early-morning drop-offs. US Auto Supplies carries both an after-hours key drop box and an early bird key drop box, along with in-ground post and surface mount post options for installation. More on after-hours key drops here.
What size are standard dealership key tags?
Key tag sizes vary by style, but most standard dealership key tags are sized to be easy to handle and read at a glance — typically around 1.75" x 3.5" to 2" x 4" for laminated tags like Versa Tags, and smaller for poly or arrow-style tags. The goal is a tag that's large enough to write or print key vehicle details on, but compact enough not to bulk up a key ring. US Auto Supplies carries key tags in a range of sizes across styles like Versa Tags, color-coded poly tags, and laminated Consecu-Tags.
What information goes on a dealership key tag?
A dealership key tag typically includes the vehicle's stock number, year, make, and model, and often the VIN or last few digits of it for quick reference. Some dealerships also include the asking price, the lot location, and the assigned salesperson's name or initials. In the service department, key tags often display the repair order number and the customer's name instead. Having this information on the tag keeps everything organized at a glance and reduces the time spent hunting for the right key. For tips on using organizational systems to drive repeat business, check out our blog on 8 Proven Auto Body Shop Marketing Tactics to Get More Customers.
What is the best key drop box for a service department?
The best key drop box for a service department depends on your setup and volume. For most shops, the standard after-hours key drop box is a solid wall-mount option that handles everyday after-hours drop-offs reliably. For higher-volume shops or those wanting a more prominent outdoor setup, the early bird key drop box offers a larger capacity, while post-mounted versions — either in-ground or surface mount — are great for drive-through service lane setups. Pair whichever box you choose with night drop envelopes or after-hours key drop envelopes to give customers a place to document their vehicle info and service requests at drop-off.
Customization & Wholesale FAQs
Can I order custom printed dealership forms with my logo?
Yes. Many of the forms dealerships use every day — deal jackets, repair orders, addendum stickers, and more — are available in custom-printed versions with your dealership's name, logo, and contact information. Custom forms help reinforce your branding and give your paperwork a more professional, polished appearance. US Auto Supplies offers custom options across categories including custom vehicle deal jackets, custom dealer record envelopes, and custom multipoint inspection forms.
Do you offer custom oil change stickers with my shop branding?
Yes. Custom oil change stickers are a popular way for service departments to reinforce their brand at every visit. US Auto Supplies offers custom write-on oil change stickers printed with your shop's name, logo, and phone number, as well as custom machine-printable oil change stickers for shops using a label printer system, and two-sided custom oil change stickers for maximum visibility.
Can I get custom paper floor mats with my dealership logo?
Yes. Custom paper floor mats are a simple way to add branding to every vehicle that comes through your service or detail department, giving customers a polished, professional impression every time their car is returned to them. US Auto Supplies offers custom paper floor mats as well as a gloss-back custom version for a more premium finish.
Do you offer wholesale pricing for dealership supplies?
Many of the products US Auto Supplies carries are already priced with bulk dealership use in mind, and pricing improves on several items as order quantity increases. All orders that reach a total of $100.00 also ship free to addresses inside the continental United States. For dealership groups or shops with larger or recurring volume needs, the best step is to reach out directly — US Auto Supplies' team can work with you on quantity-based pricing for your specific order. You can reach them at 888-928-2768 or by email, with normal office hours Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm PST.
Can I get custom license plate frames for my dealership?
Yes. Car dealer license plate frames create lasting on-the-road branding for your auto dealership, allowing you to display your dealership name, phone number, website, or city on vehicles sold to customers so that every trip becomes a rolling advertisement for your business. US Auto Supplies offers several custom frame styles including custom raised letter frames, screen-printed custom frames, chrome-faced custom frames, and custom motorcycle dealer frames for powersport dealers.
What is the minimum order for custom printed forms?
Minimum order quantities vary by product since each custom item is produced differently — some forms are sold by the box, while others like custom license plate frames or floor mats are quoted based on quantity tiers shown directly on the product page. The best way to confirm the minimum for a specific item is to view that product's pricing options on the US Auto Supplies website, or to contact their team directly at 888-928-2768 for a personalized quote on your custom order.
Can I get custom hang tags for my dealership inventory?
Yes, US Auto Supplies offers a range of hang tag options that can be customized for dealership inventory and service use, helping you communicate pricing, features, or status information consistently across your lot. To explore current hang tag styles and customization options, browse the Service Department Hang Tags collection or rear view mirror hang tags, and reach out to the team for custom print options on any style that fits your needs.
Do you offer custom key tags with dealership branding?
Yes. Custom key tags help reinforce your dealership's name on every set of keys that moves through your sales or service process. US Auto Supplies offers custom Versa Tags with your branding, as well as custom-printed plastic key tags and loyalty key tags that double as a small branded giveaway for customers.
What custom antenna flags are available for dealerships?
US Auto Supplies offers custom car antenna flags that can be branded with your dealership's colors or messaging, giving your lot a more cohesive, branded look beyond the standard antenna pennant styles. These pair well with other lot decoration like pennant strings and streamers for dealerships looking to build out a full branded promotional setup — something covered in more detail in our blog on 8 Cool and Effective Grand Opening Promotion Ideas for Car Dealerships.
Can I get a printable buyers guide template?
US Auto Supplies offers laser-printable Buyer's Guide forms designed specifically to be filled out and printed directly from your office computer, rather than handwritten. These are available in As-Is and Implied Warranty versions, along with a Spanish-language option. Browse the full Buyer's Guide Forms collection to find the laser-printable format that fits your dealership's workflow, including the standard laser buyer guide form and the Spanish version.
Air Fresheners & New Car Smell FAQs
What air fresheners do car dealerships use?
Dealerships typically rely on scented air freshener pads during detailing and final vehicle prep to give cars a clean, welcoming scent before delivery. Air freshener pads help maintain a pleasant interior scent, while odor bombs help neutralize stronger or lingering odors in used vehicles. Air freshener pads are available in resealable packs of 60 and come in a variety of popular scents, allowing dealerships to choose a signature scent for their delivery process or rotate between options. US Auto Supplies carries a full lineup of car dealership air fresheners designed specifically for this use.
How do dealerships get that new car smell?
That distinctive "new car smell" customers love comes from a specific scented air freshener pad designed to replicate the scent of factory-fresh upholstery and trim. Dealerships apply these pads to used vehicles during detailing to recreate that fresh, just-off-the-lot feel before a customer takes delivery. US Auto Supplies offers an Air Freshener Pad in New Car Scent, the exact product many dealerships rely on to give pre-owned inventory that signature new car feel. Learn everything you need to know about this on our blog What Air Freshener Do Car Dealerships Use?
What is the best long-lasting car air freshener for dealerships?
For longer-lasting results, air freshener pads tend to outperform standalone air fresheners because they release scent gradually as the vehicle sits and is driven, rather than fading quickly like a hanging freshener. For vehicles that need deeper odor correction rather than just a pleasant scent layered on top, an odor bomb is the better choice since it's designed to neutralize embedded odors at the source. US Auto Supplies offers both options depending on whether you need fragrance or odor elimination.
Can I buy the same air freshener that dealerships use?
Yes. The air freshener pads dealerships use for detailing and vehicle prep are available directly to anyone, not just dealership accounts. US Auto Supplies sells these pads in a wide range of scents including New Car Scent, New Leather Scent, Cherry, Vanilla, Strawberry, Coconut, Bahama Breeze, and several more — the full selection is available on the Car Dealership Air Fresheners collection page.
How do you restore new car smell to a used vehicle?
Restoring that new car smell to a used vehicle generally starts with a thorough interior cleaning — vacuuming, wiping down surfaces, and addressing any lingering odors at the source. Odor bombs help neutralize stronger or lingering odors in used vehicles and are a good first step for vehicles with smoke, pet, or food smells embedded in the upholstery or carpet. Once the vehicle is clean, applying a New Car Scent air freshener pad finishes the job by layering in that familiar fresh scent. Pairing the freshener with a carpet cleaner or multi-purpose foamy cleaner during detailing helps ensure the scent isn't just masking odors but actually starting from a clean base.
Service Department Supplies FAQs
What are technician flag sheets used for?
Mechanic flag sheets, also known as job time tickets or job time stub sheets, provide service departments and body shop operations with a simple and reliable way to track how much time technicians spend on each job. These sheets help improve accountability, accuracy, and workflow in busy repair environments. Each technician records their start and stop time on a specific job, which the shop then uses for labor billing, productivity tracking, and internal reporting. These mechanic flag sheets are designed to be used alongside auto repair work order forms and work order holders, helping keep paperwork organized and protected from grease, grime, and wear in the service and repair area. US Auto Supplies offers flag sheets in several formats including mechanic time sheets, job time tickets, mechanics flag sheets, and a carbonless version for shops that prefer cleaner record keeping without carbon paper.
What type of gloves do auto mechanics use?
Mechanics typically reach for disposable nitrile or latex gloves for most day-to-day repair tasks since they offer good dexterity, chemical resistance, and protection from grease, oil, and solvents without sacrificing feel for handling small parts. Nitrile is generally preferred over latex because it holds up better against petroleum-based products and doesn't carry the latex allergy risk. US Auto Supplies offers premium nitrile gloves as well as latex gloves for shops that prefer that option, both designed specifically for automotive repair environments.
What supplies does a car dealership service department need?
A well-stocked service department needs supplies that span the entire service workflow — from intake through final delivery. This includes repair order forms and mechanic flag sheets for documenting and tracking jobs, multi-point inspection forms for vehicle checkups, paper floor mats and seat covers to protect interiors, gloves and shop towels for technicians, oil change reminder stickers for customer follow-up, and night drop envelopes for after-hours key drop. Safety items like safety glasses, ear protection, and oily rag waste containers round out a fully equipped, OSHA-conscious service bay.
What is a shop rag bin and how is it used?
A shop rag bin — often called an oily rag waste can or oily rag container — is a metal, lidded container used to safely store rags and towels that have been soaked with oil, solvents, or other flammable substances during repair work. Because oil-soaked rags can spontaneously combust if left in a pile, OSHA requires this type of waste to be stored in a self-closing, fire-resistant metal container rather than a standard trash bin. Technicians dispose of used shop rags into the bin throughout the day, and the contents are typically removed and laundered or disposed of according to local regulations. US Auto Supplies offers oily rag containers in a 10-gallon size and a 6-gallon oily rag safety can to fit shops of different sizes.
Floor Mats FAQs
What are disposable paper floor mats used for at dealerships?
Paper floor mats help protect vehicle carpets and flooring from dirt, moisture, and wear during service, detailing, and lot prep, all while showing customers that you take good care of their vehicles. They're placed in the vehicle any time a technician, detailer, or salesperson will be getting in and out of the car repeatedly, preventing shoe scuffs, grease transfer, and general wear on the customer's carpet. Because they're disposable, they get replaced between vehicles rather than cleaned, which keeps the process fast and sanitary. US Auto Supplies offers a full range of paper floor mats designed for exactly this kind of everyday dealership and service department use.
What sizes do dealership paper floor mats come in?
Most dealership paper floor mats are sized to fit standard front floorwells, generally in the range of roughly 17" x 27", though exact dimensions vary slightly by manufacturer and material type. They're typically sold in large rolls or stacks so they can be peeled off and used continuously throughout the day. US Auto Supplies carries several format options including standard paper floor mats, heavy duty coated mats, and waffle paper, a thicker, more absorbent material designed for jobs where extra moisture or debris protection is needed.
Can I get custom printed paper floor mats with my logo?
Yes. Custom paper floor mats let you put your dealership's name or logo directly under the customer's feet every time their vehicle is serviced or detailed, turning a simple protective mat into a small branding touchpoint. US Auto Supplies offers custom paper floor mats as well as a gloss-back custom version for a more polished, higher-end finish.
Are paper floor mats better than rubber mats for service departments?
It depends on the use case. Paper floor mats are disposable, inexpensive, and fast to swap between vehicles, making them ideal for high-volume service departments handling many cars per day — there's no cleaning or storage involved, just toss and replace. For vehicles that will be in service longer, adhesive-style plastic floor mats are a great option, especially when technicians are getting in and out of the car over multiple days, since they stay securely in place better than paper. Reusable rubber mats, by contrast, require cleaning between uses and aren't as practical for fast-paced shops that need a quick turnaround. For most service departments, a mix works best: paper for routine, single-visit jobs, and adhesive plastic mats for longer repairs where the vehicle will be in and out of the bay repeatedly.
Test Drive & Sales Forms FAQs
What is a four-square worksheet in car sales?
A four-square worksheet is a negotiation tool salespeople use to break down a vehicle deal into four key components: trade-in value, down payment, monthly payment, and the price of the vehicle. Each quadrant of the sheet shows one of these figures, allowing the salesperson and customer to see how adjusting one number affects the others as they work toward an agreement. It's a long-standing tool in dealership sales floors for keeping pricing negotiations clear and organized. While not always sold as a standalone product, it pairs naturally with other sales documentation like deal forms and dealer purchase agreement forms once the numbers are finalized.
What should a test drive agreement include?
A test drive agreement should include the customer's name, driver's license number, and contact information, the vehicle's year, make, model, and VIN, the date and time of the test drive, and an acknowledgment that the customer agrees to be responsible for any damage that occurs during the drive. Many dealerships also include liability and insurance language to protect the dealership if an accident happens while the vehicle is off the lot. US Auto Supplies offers test drive agreement forms designed specifically to capture this information before handing over the keys.
What is a credit application form for a car dealership?
A credit application form is the document customers fill out when they want to finance a vehicle purchase through the dealership rather than paying in full upfront. It collects the personal, employment, and financial information lenders need to evaluate creditworthiness — including income, employment history, residence history, and existing debts. This form is typically submitted to the dealership's finance department or directly to a lending partner to begin the approval process. US Auto Supplies offers a universal credit application form designed to work across a variety of dealership financing workflows.
What is an agreement to furnish insurance form?
An agreement to furnish insurance form is a document the buyer signs confirming they will obtain and maintain proper insurance coverage on a financed vehicle, since lenders typically require continuous coverage as a condition of the loan. It protects the dealership and the lender by creating a documented commitment from the buyer, and it often outlines what happens if the buyer fails to maintain coverage, such as the lender placing forced insurance on the loan. This form is commonly bundled with other finance and delivery paperwork as part of the overall deal jacket.
What is a notice to cosigner form?
A notice to cosigner form, also called a co-signer notice, is required under the FTC's Credit Practices Rule any time a vehicle purchase involves a cosigner on the financing agreement. It informs the cosigner of their legal obligations before they sign — specifically, that they may be held responsible for the full debt if the primary borrower defaults on the loan. The form must be provided to the cosigner before they assume the obligation, and a signed copy should be kept as part of the deal jacket for compliance purposes. US Auto Supplies offers a Notice to Cosigner Form designed to meet this requirement.
What is a trade-in appraisal form?
Used vehicle appraisal forms help dealership managers accurately evaluate customer vehicles for trade-in consideration, providing a structured way to record condition, mileage, features, and value. The appraiser walks through the vehicle, documenting everything from exterior condition and mileage to mechanical issues and equipment, which then informs the trade-in offer presented to the customer. Once a vehicle is accepted on trade, it must be properly labeled on the lot until Buyers Guide forms are completed and displayed — typically with a Not For Sale sticker in the interim. US Auto Supplies offers several appraisal form formats including Car Appraisal Forms 298, the Used Vehicle Appraisal Form TC-47, and the more detailed Used Car Appraisal Forms (Form #290).
Comments