When it comes to buying a used car from overseas, especially if you’re targeting the Ghanaian market, two names instantly pop up like the last two standing in a high-stakes auction; Copart and IAA (Insurance Auto Auctions). These two titans dominate the salvage vehicle auction world, and for anyone serious about importing a vehicle to Ghana, one or both have likely played a role in your automotive journey. But here’s the million-cedi question: which one is the better bet?
Truth is, both platforms offer nearly the same thrill, an online battlefield where you bid for anything from mildly bruised sedans to mangled supercars that tell stories of speed, recklessness, or just plain bad luck. Ghana’s streets are flooded with these reborn machines. That sleek Toyota Camry or Honda Accord cruising past you in pristine condition? Odds are, it once sat on a Copart or IAA lot somewhere in the U.S., wearing damage like a war medal before getting a second lease on life here.
Let’s break it down
Copart, for many, is the go-to option. Why? It’s massive, with hundreds of locations across the U.S. and a diverse inventory. From flood-damaged cars to theft recoveries and minor collision cases, it offers a wide range of options. The bidding process feels like a video game—fast-paced, intense, and honestly addictive. The photos are usually detailed, and with tools like AutoCheck or EpicVIN reports, you get some insights into what the car went through. It’s got the name, the trust, and the sheer volume on its side.
IAA, however, isn’t far behind. In fact, some seasoned buyers swear by IAA for one reason: better deals. Because it’s less hyped than Copart, some gems slip under the radar and go for way less. Plus, IAA’s platform has improved over the years with enhanced photo quality, virtual engine-start videos, and bidding tools that give Copart a serious run for its money. IAA also tends to have more vehicles directly from insurance companies, which sometimes means less tampering or third-party flipping.
Now the cons—because it’s not all sunshine and spark plugs
Copart, due to its popularity, attracts a lot of global attention. Meaning? Higher competition and frequent overbidding. What should be a $2,000 car suddenly sells for $4,500, and by the time it lands at the Tema port, you’re already underwater. Also, beware of title scams. Not everything labeled “run & drive” truly runs or drives when it arrives. It’s a gamble, and many have lost.
IAA, while a sleeper pick, has its drawbacks too. Their fees can be unexpectedly high, and the user interface sometimes lacks the clarity Copart provides. Plus, depending on your shipping agent or buyer in the U.S., accessing certain IAA lots might be trickier—especially if you’re not using a licensed broker.
In the end, it boils down to what kind of buyer you are
If you’re new to the game and want volume, familiarity, and easier navigation, Copart might be your safe bet. If you’re a risk-taker looking for a bargain and know how to sniff out hidden treasures, IAA could be your goldmine.
But remember this: most vehicles imported into Ghana from the U.S. are salvaged or accidented, and they don’t come with a fairy tale ending, unless you write it yourself. Whether it’s a cracked chassis, hidden flood damage, or airbags that popped and were never replaced, the devil is always in the details.
So whichever platform you choose, arm yourself with information, a trustworthy agent, and a good mechanic when the car finally lands. After all, you’re not just buying a car, you’re buying a past. And you better make sure it’s one worth rewriting.
