In franchise dealerships, every department – from fixed ops to F&I to used cars – operates like a small business, with data guiding every decision to keep each department profitable. But what if exporting vehicles to the US could be a natural extension of this approach? Treating exports as another profit center can open new revenue streams and create a significant boost in inventory turnover and profitability. Here’s how Signal can help make it happen.

WHY EXPORTING CAN BE A PROFITABLE DEALERSHIP DEPARTMENT

Exporting can transform your business when it comes to moving inventory, expanding your market reach, and increasing profits. US buyers often pay more for certain models, with demand outpacing what’s seen in Canada. With exporting, you’re tapping into a larger pool of buyers who might be looking for exactly what’s on your lot and willing to pay a premium for it. Signal offers a complete platform that gives you the tools and data to make exports as seamless and strategic as other departments in your dealership.

1. USING THE RIGHT DATA TO GUIDE YOUR EXPORT DECISIONS

Success in exporting is all about picking the right vehicles to move south. Signal’s platform provides the real-time wholesale and retail data you need to buy and price vehicles for the US market, ensuring you’re staying competitive and profitable. Whether you’re new to exporting or already familiar with the process, having reliable data to base your decisions on can be the difference between hitting your profit targets and just getting by.

Pro Tip: Use Signal’s free Market Guide and Marketability Data to see which vehicles are in demand in specific US regions. Use our Canadian Export Opportunity Report (CEO Report) to reveal the cars currently on your lot that are bringing higher profit margins in the US right now. Keep reading below for more info about the CEO Report. Put simply, our data helps you make quick and informed decisions on buying, pricing, and exporting inventory for maximum return.

2. SIMPLIFY EXPORTING WITH A SINGLE SOLUTION

Exporting comes with its own set of regulatory hurdles – Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements, compliance, and customs paperwork – that can turn into big obstacles. Signal has simplified what used to be a complicated process, handling everything from documentation to transport. We’ve been in the export game ourselves, both as exporters and Registered Importers, so we know what’s needed to get your inventory into US buyers’ hands quickly and easily.

Pro Tip: With Signal’s Registered Importer network, you get the benefit of a streamlined, automated process that minimizes paperwork and ensures each vehicle meets every requirement, helping you stay compliant and efficient.

3. FIND EXPORT OPPORTUNITIES IN YOUR INVENTORY WITH THE CEO REPORT

Signal’s Canadian Export Opportunity (CEO) Report is a powerful tool for identifying which vehicles in your current inventory have high profit potential in the US. It analyzes the vehicles sitting on your lot (including aged inventory) and shows you which units could bring higher profits in the US than in Canada. Think of it as your export strategy assistant, providing real-time insights to prioritize which cars to export for maximum profitability.

Pro Tip: The CEO Report helps franchise dealers diversify their inventory exit strategies, turning existing and aged inventory into profitable exports and freeing up space for fresh inventory.

4. GET SPECIALIZED FINANCING AND INSURANCE DESIGNED FOR EXPORT

Quick access to capital is essential for exports, but financing cross-border deals isn’t always easy or straightforward. Signal offers flexible financing options tailored to the needs of vehicle exporters, with features like RateLock to protect your profits from FX rate changes. And if you need it, we also provide specialized insurance to keep your vehicles covered throughout the journey, making sure your investment stays safe every step of the way.

Pro Tip: Use Signal Financing to manage your export capital with confidence. RateLock and export-specific insurance give you the peace of mind that you’re protected and ready to move quickly on new opportunities.  

MAKE EXPORTING PART OF YOUR DEALERSHIP’S SUCCESS

Vehicle exporting is no longer a sideline operation. With Signal’s suite of tools, data, insights and support, your export business can function just like any other profit center in your dealership. By treating exporting as its own department, you’re setting yourself up for a sustainable and profitable new revenue stream that’s easy to operate and manage.

Ready to explore how exporting can drive profits for your dealership? Let Signal help you make exporting as strategic and straightforward as the rest of your business.

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