Louisiana MVD bond

May 31, 2016, Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards signed House Bill 271 in regards to Louisiana motor vehicle dealers.  The changes  include a increase of the $20,000 and $35,000 bond to $50,000 and the removal of the differentiation in number of vehicles sold. The new required amount will take effect on August 1, 2016.




What does the new bond amount mean for you?

The current $20,000 & $35,000 bond requirement is effective until July 31, 2016.  On or after August 1, 2016, any new dealers should purchase the bond in the new amount of $50,000.  If you are already bonded, your current bond amount will be valid until December 31, 2016 but at that time you will need to have an increase rider in place.

Dealers who are needing to renew may find that the renewal rate is higher than previous years even if there has been no change to their credit.  It is important to remember that premiums are a percentage of the total bond amount.



Let Ashton help with your Louisiana MVD bond!

With one simple application, Ashton Agency will shop around for the best rate possible.  Our in-house underwriters are able to look at many personal variables on your application and can offer some of the most competitive rates! We also have programs for challenged credit if you are needing a used car dealer bond.

Ashton Agency offers an experienced insurance department that can help with your garage liability insurance.  We are your one-stop shop for all of your auto dealer needs!

Start saving time and money immediately!  Call us today at (800) 452-2663 to speak with one of our helpful customer service representatives (hablamos español). 

Or visit online:

Website:  https://ashtonagency.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashtonagency

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AshtonAgency

Iowa Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond Increase

This past April, Iowa Governor Terry Branstad signed Senate File 2228 in regards to both new and wholesale Iowa motor vehicle dealers.  One of the big changes to new and wholesale dealers is a significant increase in the bond amount.  The new required amount will take effect on July 1, 2016 for new applications.  Dealer licenses issued prior to July 1, 2016 with a $50,000 bond in effect will remain valid until December 31, 2016, but will not be renewed until the bond has been increased to $75,000.  The State of Iowa DOT states they will accept a bond increase rider from your insurance agent or an Iowa licensed bonding company.



What does the new bond amount mean for you?

The current $50,000 bond requirement is effective until June 30, 2016.  On or after July 1, 2016, any new dealers should purchase the bond in the new amount of $75,000.  If you are already bonded, your current bond amount will be valid until December 31, 2016 but at that time you will need to have an increase rider in place.

Dealers who are needing to renew may find that the renewal rate is higher than previous years even if there has been no change to their credit.  It is important to remember that premiums are a percentage of the total bond amount.



Let Ashton help with your Iowa MVD bond!

With one simple application, Ashton Agency will shop around for the best rate possible.  Our in-house underwriters are able to look at many personal variables on your application and can offer some of the most competitive rates! We also have programs for challenged credit if you are needing a used car dealer bond.

Ashton Agency offers an experienced insurance department that can help with your garage liability insurance.  We are your one-stop shop for all of your auto dealer needs!

Start saving time and money immediately!  Call us today at (800) 452-2663 to speak with one of our helpful customer service representatives (hablamos español). 

Or visit online:

Website:  https://ashtonagency.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashtonagency

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AshtonAgency

Florida Motor Vehicle Dealer Bonds

All Florida motor vehicle dealer bonds have a common expiration date of April 30th.  Auto dealers are required to obtain a $25,000 Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond to be in compliance with Section 320.27 of the Florida Statutes.

With one simple application Ashton Agency will shop around for the best rate possible and will get you a quote back in 1-2 business days.  Our in-house underwriters are able to look at many personal variables on your application and can offer the Florida Auto Dealer Bond as low as $200!

In addition to the bond, the State of Florida requires that you carry garage liability insurance.   Ashton Agency offers an experienced insurance department that can write your liability coverage also. We are your one-stop shop for all your auto dealer needs!

Start saving time and money immediately!  Call us today at (800) 451-4854 to speak with one of our helpful customer service representatives (hablamos español). 

Or visit online:

Website:  https://ashtonagency.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashtonagency

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AshtonAgency

Motor Vehicle Dealer Overview

In this post you’ll find a general overview of dealer bonds, also known as MVD bonds & license bonds.  For specific information on what type of bond and documentation you'll need to submit to satisfy the surety bond requirement of your dealership licensing process, please contact the appropriate motor vehicle agency in your state.

Auto dealers, used, new, and wholesalers in most states must file a surety bond with the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles before they can receive their dealer license.  Surety bonds are designed to protect the customers of the auto dealer.  A surety bond will help ensure that your dealership will follow the rules and regulations in the state where the dealership is located.

Typically, dealers obtain their motor vehicle dealer bond by applying with a surety bond company.  As part of the application process the dealer will fill out an application and agree to a credit check and may have to submit financial documentation, so that the bond company can be sure they are credit worthy and financially stable. 

Credit challenged clients may have a harder time acquiring a bond.  Some bond companies will not even help the dealer.  At Ashton Agency we are able to help almost all credit situations.  We have many programs available to help the clients with less than perfect credit.  Ashton Agency has been helping dealers all across the US get bonded quickly and easily for over 40 years.

Call (800) 452-2663 / (800) 451-4854 to speak with one of our bond specialist, or visit our website at http://ashtonagency.com.

New Mexico MVD bond renewal is fast approaching.

All New Mexico motor vehicle dealer bonds have a common expiration date of March 31st.  Auto dealers are required to obtain a $50,000 Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond to be in compliance with New Mexico Statutes.

With one simple application, Ashton Agency will shop around for the best rate possible and will get you a quote back in 1-2 business days.  Our in-house underwriters are able to look at many personal variables on your application and can offer The New Mexico Auto Dealer Bond as low as $250! We also have programs for bad credit if you are needing a used car dealer bond.

Ashton Agency offers an experienced insurance department that can write your liability coverage also.  Ashton Agency also has the $30,000 VIN Verifier bond as low as $228.  We are your one-stop shop for all your auto dealer needs!

Start saving time and money immediately!  Call us today at (800) 452-2663 to speak with one of our helpful customer service representatives (hablamos español). 

You can also visit our website at http://ashtonagency.com

Oklahoma MVD and other bond changes.

Oklahoma used motor vehicle dealers, auctions, non-auction consignments, wholesale dealers, used motor vehicle rebuilders, and manufactured housing dealers will be required by the State of Oklahoma to carry a two year term bond for all licenses expiring 12/31/2015.   Ashton Agency is here to help you with this newly mandated change.  We have updated bond forms ready and have also been informed that the State of Oklahoma will accept a Continuation Certificate for renewal dates extended out to 12/31/17.  We are ready and prepared for this change.

If you have any questions about your upcoming Oklahoma used motor vehicle dealer bond renewal or require any of the other bonds stated above, please reach out to our team at Ashton Agency.

Visit Ashton Agency’s website at www.ashtonagency.com or call (800) 451-4854

2015 is looking to be a great year for motor vehicle dealers.

According to Black Book data, the average price for the average used vehicle for model years 2009-2013 fell 12.1% in 2014.  A much smaller decline than the 12.8% for 2013 and less than Black Book’s prediction of 13.5%.  For the year, domestic trucks finished with the lowest depreciation at 9.1%, while domestic cars topped out at 15.9% depreciation.

“The used-vehicle market finished another solid year,” said Manheim Chief Economist Tom Webb. “Consumers continue to see great value in purchasing used vehicles, even at higher price points. Dealers continue to see used vehicles as an important and profitable part of their business.”

2015 is looking to be an even better year for sales of used cars and trucks.  Before going into the business of selling cars, check with your state for their requirements.  Most states have an extensive list of things you must obtain before you can open your doors to the public.  Things like site approval, business license, dealer courses, insurance and surety bonds are just the basic, but mandatory requirements in most states.

There are many costs with opening a business that are set in stone.  Business license and dealer license are just a couple.  Things like insurance and surety bonds can be shopped to find a competitive price.  Finding the best price for these means you might have to do some extra work to find a company like Ashton Agency.  Ashton Agency does the work for you and gets you the lowest price from multiple markets.  Let Ashton Agency’s 40 plus years of experience help save you time and money.

Please visit Ashton Agency’s website at www.ashtonagency.com or call (800) 451-4854 (East Coast) or (800) 452-2663 (West Coast) to obtain your MVD bond and garage insurance.

Florida Passes Laws on Liens, Registration Fees

On May 3, Florida passed a bill that will result in a drop in vehicle registration fees in an effort to reduce taxes and fees. Auto dealers will have an additional resource to recover vehicles under lien. The Department of Transportation bill added the amendment after Governor Rick Scott signed. The bill would go into effect on October 1st.

The new passage will follow a bill that cuts about $400 million in vehicle registration fees, which will go into effect September 1st.

Scott says that these efforts are part of his "It's Your Money Tax Cut Budget" plan and reduces fees between $5 and $11.50 per registration on cars, trucks, motorcycles, mopeds, and antique vehicles.

This is great news for Florida motor vehicle dealers. Cutting costs will certainly provide more room for expenses. Florida auto dealers should already be renewed for their surety bond. However, Ashton Agency can also help your shop with several options, including garage liability insurance, garage keeper, floorplanning and warranties.

Call the Ashton Agency today to speak with one of our representative at 1 (800) 451-4854 or visit us on our website www.ashtonagency.com. Feel free to fill out our easy-to-use applications for a FREE quote within ONE business day!

Alabama Used Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond Amount To Be Increased

The Alabama legislature has passed a bill that will increase the used car dealer bond requirement from $10,000 to $25,000, effective August 1st, 2014.  The bill also requires new car dealers, dismantlers, and designated agents to provide the same $25,000 bond.  The bill is currently awaiting the signature of the governor.

New car dealers in Alabama have always been required to provide a $25,000 bond.

Additionally, any Alabama car dealer that was previously “grandfathered” or exempt from providing a dealer bond will now be required to provide the $25,000 bond.

Related: Miscellaneous Auto Related Bonds

Once the bill is fully enacted by the governor’s signature, the Department of Revenue will provide the new bond form required.

Since most Alabama used car dealers licenses renew in September, this will affect a majority of the auto dealers, designated agents, and dismantlers when they renew their bond this Fall.

The good news is that Ashton Agency will be ready to serve the dealers in Alabama with the new bond, just as we have for over 45 years.

As soon as the new bond form is released, we will be in touch with dealers so they can renew their bond with the new requirements!

Please call toll free (800) 451-4854, or click www.ashtonagency.com for further information.
[You can find the latest copy of the bill here: http://alisondb.legislature.state.al.us/acas/searchableinstruments/2014rs/PrintFiles/HB400-enr.pdf ]

New Sales Records in the First Quarter of Used Car Market

Both the wholesale and retail used car markets have set new records in the first quarter.

Certified pre-owned sales started with 551,707, marking the highest first quarter ever for certified sales. In March, dealers sold 206,409 certified units, reaching an all-time high.

At the top was Toyota, leading all brands with 31,687 in certified sales. Lexus also set a March record with 6,896 certified units sold.

The next quarter looks very promising for used car dealers. CarMax Auto Finance reports that income increased 6 percent to $80.8 million in the latest quarter.

To read the full article on UsedCarNews.com, click here!

Are you a used car dealer or wholesale auto dealer? Have you obtained or renewed your surety bond? Find out today how we can help save you time and money!

Call us at (800) 451-4854 for our East Coast office in Florida, or (800) 452-2663 for our West Coast office in Oregon and we can help you with your bond over the phone. Or visit our website at http://ashtonagency.com and complete our easy-to-use online application.

Mazda SUVs Recalled for Steering Issues

Over 100,000 model year 2001-04 Tribute Mazda SUVs have been recalled by Mazda North American Operations. Mazda's number for this recall is 7514D.

Usedcarnews.com reports that the SUVs "may experience excessive corrosion at the forward attachment of the lower control arm. A separation of the lower control arm can result in a significant loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash."

Mazda will repair and install the new reinforcement parts, free of charge, on the recalled vehicles. Owners are also welcome to bring their vehicles to a dealer before the parts are available to be inspected and deemed whether it's safe to drive.

Related: Used Car Sales To Rise in 2014

Tribute vehicles manufactured from May 22, 2000 to December 19, 2003 were recalled in the following states:

• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Missouri
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New York
• Ohio
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• Vermont
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin
• and the District of Columbia

Read the full article here

For bonding and garage keeper/garage insurance needs, visit our website at http://ashtonagency.com. We can provide you with a free quote within one business day!

What Are the Differences Between License & Permit and Fidelity Bonds?

Sheila from Ohio asks, “What is the difference between a license & permit bond and a fidelity bond?”

Sheila, 

Thanks for the great question.  The best way to answer your question is to describe what both types of bonds are.

The most common type of bond is a license and permit bond--sometimes referred to as a commercial surety bond.  This type of bond is usually required by a city, county, or state government, and required to obtain or maintain a license or permit-- thus the name license and permit bond.  A few types of industries that are likely to require a license and permit bond include:

• Used car dealers
• Pawnbrokers
• Public adjusters
• General contractors
• Specialty contractors  

A fidelity bond is a form of insurance that helps to protect an employer from loss due to negligence or dishonesty.  A fidelity bond is written in either first-party or third-party.  First-party fidelity bonds protect businesses from dishonesty and/or negligence that may be committed by direct employees of that business. Third-party fidelity bonds protect businesses from dishonestly and/or negligence by people working for the business on a contract basis.  A few examples where a first-party fidelity bond may be required are:

• An employee with a checkered past.  
• Notary
• Public Official

Examples of businesses that may require a third-party fidelity bond include:

• Security firms
• Janitorial services
• Consultants 

The main purpose of both license and permit bonds and fidelity bonds is to give an extra layer of protection for the entity requiring them, whether it be a governing body or a business.  At the Ashton Agency, we specialize in both license and permit bonds and fidelity bonds.  Visit our website http://ashtonagency.com to see all our bond and insurance programs!

Are you an auto dealer, public adjuster, contractor or another profession looking to renew your surety bond? Ashton Agency has been building relationships nationwide for over 45 years at the best rates! Call us today at (800) 451-4854 (East Coast) or (800) 452-2663 (West Coast) to speak with one of our helpful customer service representatives (hablamos español)!

Florida Auto Dealer Bonds Expire on April 30th--Get Started On Your Renewal Today!

ATTN: FLORIDA AUTO DEALERS

All Florida motor vehicle dealer bonds have a common expiration date of April 30th! Auto dealers are required to obtain a $25,000 Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond to be in compliance with Section 320.27 of the Florida Statutes.

With the Ashton Agency, we guarantee to shop around for the best rates possible for you. We offer the Florida Auto Dealer Bond as low as $206!

You can also find our press release on FL motor vehicle dealer bonds via 8,500 media outlets! Click here to read our official press release in regards to your auto dealer bond!

In addition to the bond, the State of Florida requires that you carry garage liability insurance. Ashton Agency can write your liability coverage too. We can write your bond for up to three years, with discounts available on the second and third years’ premiums. We are your one-stop shop for all your auto dealer needs!

Start saving time and money immediately and call us today at (800) 451-4854 to speak with one of our helpful customer service representatives (hablamos español). You can also visit our website at http://ashtonagency.com or fax us toll free (888) 507-8661.

Miscellaneous Auto Related Bonds

There are quite a few auto related bonds separate from auto dealership bonds.  These are required bonds by businesses for repairing autos, sales of auto parts, auto dismantlers, auto parts recyclers, designated agents, vehicle inspection businesses, etc.  All of these bonds are regulated by the Department of Motor Vehicles in individual states.

Some of these are akin to what we would call “auto junk yards”, whose businesses provide a valuable service as a secondary market for used auto parts and to do-it-yourself workers who repair autos and can bypass the retail auto parts store and find parts less expensively at a recycler.

Designated Agents, after being certified by their states "licensed and bonded", can handle auto title paperwork for their various states.

Others, such as VIN inspection stations, verify vehicle inspection numbers for possible tampering or theft.

A sample of some actual bonds required are:

• Dismantler and Parts Recycler bond in Alabama
• Auto Repairers/Rebuilders bond in Connecticut, Oklahoma and Utah
• Designated Agent bond in Alabama
• Motor Vehicle Inspection Station bond in Louisiana
• Auto Salvage bond in Florida
• VIN (Vehicle Inspection Number) bond in California and New Mexico.

Check with your individual states’ MVD agency for more state specific information.

If your business has need for any of these miscellaneous bonds, we here at the Ashton Agency can help! We have been selling bonds for over 45 years throughout the country.

Call (800) 451-4854 (East Coast) or (800) 452-2663 (West Coast) for assistance with one of our friendly customer service representatives or visit our website at www.ashtonagency.com for your bond at the best rates!

Weather Causes Fall of Auto Sales for Third Consecutive Month

According to ABC News, General Motors and Ford reported declines in U.S. auto sales as harsh weather conditions reigned over the auto industry. Auto sales have steadily increased over the past four years until this year's rough winter weather--and, earlier in the year, predicted to rise.

Since December 2013, sales have remained stagnant while vehicle inventories continue to increase. Industry analysts do predict a slight rise of about 1 percent for the month, but still slow compared to 8 percent from last year.

GM and Ford predict sales to continue to trend low in February. Volatile winter weather remained in many parts of the nation which kept several people in major metropolitan areas out of dealerships for long periods of time.

It's reasonable to blame the weather conditions for the lack of sales, but executives are looking for solutions to pick up sales. Stock market fluctuations can also play a role in the drop. However, automakers are confident sales will pick up in the next months. All automakers were due to report February sales yesterday, Monday, March 3.

Are you an auto dealer looking to renew your dealers bond? Ashton Agency has helped thousands of auto dealers nationwide to get their auto dealer bond and garage liability insurance at the best rates! Call us today at (800) 451-4854 (East of the Mississippi) or (800) 452-2663 (West) to speak with one of our helpful customer service representatives (hablamos español).

Ashton Agency now offers $100,000 Florida Prescription Drug Wholesale Distributor Bond

The Ashton Agency has been approved to underwrite $100,000 Florida Prescription Drug Wholesale Distributor Bonds.

Florida requires any prescription drug manufacturer, repackager or wholesale distributor to provide a $100,000 prescription bond. The purpose of this surety bond is to ensure compliance with the requirements of and for wholesale distribution of prescription drugs as set forth in the Florida Drug and Cosmetic Act, Chapter 499, Florida Statutes, and to ensure payments for penalties. The statutes also require the same bond to wholesale distributors of veterinary drugs.

Are you a prescription drug distributor looking for a surety bond? We offer the quickest turnaround time at the most competitive prices. Call us today at (800) 451-4854 for assistance with one of our helpful customer service representatives (hablamos español).

Visit our website to apply online or explore our other bond and insurance programs.

How to Boost SEO for Your Used Car Lot

Before the digital era, newspaper postings and traditional print was enough to get exposure for your used car lot. Not anymore. Used Motor Vehicle Dealers do not have the luxury of corporate backing in their marketing and promotions.

In today's online world, digital marketing is a must for almost any business. What is SEO? SEO is an abbreviation for Search Engine Optimization that businesses are constantly trying to improve. Why SEO? Improving your online presence is not to just simply be on the Internet. Being ranked high on search pages such as Google, Yahoo, Bing and more can make or break your business. Sure, you can have paid ads that will push your website up to the top, but 70-80% of users ignore the paid ads. Readers want organic links, which is generated through SEO and quality content.

We want to help you boost your used car lot and company's SEO. Here are some simple and easy tips to improving your Google search page ranking and online presence.

1) Content Is King

Getting readers and future clients to your website is the first step. The next step is retention. You want to have your readers come back to your site rather than a one-stop click. Simply, your website needs to have information that readers will either benefit them or interest them to read it. Blogs are a great way to keep your readers interested on new and fresh content. It's also a great way to create "How To's" for reading pleasure. For example, we wrote on How To Obtain A FL Motor Vehicle Dealer License, and is still one of our most clicked on article posts. Used car shoppers usually have many questions--your website may be able to address them and, as a result, be the shop they choose to shop with.

2) Use Strategic Keyword Phrases

When you search something on Google, do you usually type 1-2 words or a phrase of what you're looking for? Like most people, you probably type phrases and bunch multiple keywords. Make your website as descriptive as possible without over-flooding duplicate words. Create effective title tags that incorporate your target keywords. For example, on blog posts, use strategic titles with keywords on the URL links.

3) Connect Via Social Media

Social media has dominated online communications for the past several years with the emergence of Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and various outlets. These social sites are a great way to connect to your customers on a personal level. Allow your clients to see some personality in your business rather than an advertisement robot. Social media is also a great way to share your content, blog posts and promotions, which creates traffic to your website.

4) Use Backlinks on Posts

Backlinks, also known as incoming links, inbound links, and inward links, are hyperlinks to another website or web page. Allow your readers to navigate easily through content they want to know. For example, if you want to provide information on the current used car industry and economic trends, notice how the previous phrase has been hyperlinked for an easy direct connect to information on how to renew.

5) Have a Well-Designed Layout

In terms of ranking, well structured and organized pages tend to be favored over poorly designed pages. Web pages with an appealing layout are preferred and become more popular over time. SEO will recognize the pages users return to. Cater your used car lot page with easily accessible information along with great pictures of cars and inventory. Liven up your website rather than drowning it with words and texts.

6) Reviews and Testimonials

Ask your clients and satisfied customers to leave a positive review on third party sites such as Yelp, Merchant Circle or other respected review pages. A fantastic way to improve your SEO is when your business has numerous positive (as well as negative) reviews. Also request testimonials from loyal customers and strong influences. Shoppers will search for a used car lot that is well known and has strong approval ratings.

7) Create Promotions and Contests

People always love winning free things, no matter how big or small. Social media is a great way to promote the contest and gain followers. Post announcements on how to win or enter a chance to play. Creating excitement will separate you from your competition. Be sure to publish on your website as well for additional information.

8) Participate in Other Websites/Forums

Staying in one spot will never get your name out there. Network with other auto dealers and professionals in the auto industry. Join used car forums and exchange strategies and ideas. Some forums allow you to post your website which will generate traffic. It's another great way to share stories and tips on raising your SEO. Although some readers will be auto dealers, there may also be car shoppers who stumble upon your website, creating leads and potential sales.

Improving your company's SEO takes constant mangement. Setting up a website and putting a few social media posts will not generate traffic for your used car lot. Blogging weekly (even daily), engaging potentials on social media, posting daily and all the above are important for SEO.

Connect with us on social media!
Facebook: http://facebook.com/AshtonAgency
Twitter: http://twitter.com/AshtonAgency
Ashton Blog: http://ashtonagency.blogspot.com/

Website: http://ashtonagency.com

Shopping for an ATV (All Terrain Vehicle)

Shopping for a new ATV? For first-timers, it can be difficult finding the right vehicle in good condition for a great price. We've helped layout a quick guideline for ATV buyers. Some dealers can be extremely helpful, while others are looking to only close the sale.

Take a look at some steps you should take before pulling out your wallet.

Know Your ATV
As with any big purchases, you need to do your research and homework. There may be several brands, types and background information you must know before taking on an ATV dealer. Bring a friend or someone knowledgeable in ATVs and products.

Inspect 
Be sure to look closely into the engine, frame, mounts, chains, and other parts. A common problem that can cause engine failure is low oil or coolant. Check to ensure all fluids are at the proper level to avoid any damages. Use a flashlight to inspect for any signs of rust, cracks, wear and tear, and leaks.

Adjust Your Ride
Sit on your ATV and get comfortable with your ride. Adjust the handlebars to your liking, as well as the clutch levers, brake levers, foot shifter and the controls. Turn on the engine and listen to it (experience needed). Check all the lights--headlights, taillights, signal lights. It’s important you understand where all the controls and functions are when you’re riding.

Ride It!
No matter how many times you sit on the ATV and steer, it is NOT the same as driving and operating the vehicle. Take the ATV out for a ride! It may turn out to be a vehicle that does not drive the way you imagined; or it could be the perfect ATV.

Budget
After you decide on an ATV that you like, keep in mind of the price tag. Is it affordable within your budget? ATV Dealers usually have years of experience and may not lower their prices unless you can come to terms of agreement. If you’re shopping for a used ATV, you will need to make sure the price reflects the proper value, in terms of mileage, year, condition, etc.

Buying a new or used ATV can be a big commitment. It's important you are satisfied with your purchase. ATV Dealers also look for ways to help enhance their clients' shopping and riding experience.

However, there are times when contracts and agreements have been broken between the seller and buyer. ATV Dealers, a surety bond could protect your clients from any financial losses as a result of poor financial decisions, damages, unethical decisions, or a failure to follow state and local laws on the part of you. Obtaining an ATV Dealer Bond will help your customers perceive you as a trusted Principal that will stand behind your business decisions.

For a free quote on an ATV Dealer Bond, visit our website at http://ashtonagency.com or call (800) 452-2663 to speak with one of our helpful customer service representatives to assist you on your bond today!

7 Steps to Becoming A Motorcycle Dealer

Starting a motorcycle shop--like any other business--can be extremely stressful and difficult. However, it has lucrative benefits with strong business and financial plans. Here are 7 steps to helping you start up your own shop and become a Motorcycle Dealer.

Step 1
Register Your business. You must obtain a business license, register for taxes, and follow all requirements of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. These are some prerequisites (depending on your state) for obtaining an auto dealer permit.

Step 2
Strong Business and Financial Plan. As with any business, you need a solid business plan that details every aspect of your shop, ranging from expenses to marketing. You also need a sound financial plan in order to obtain loans and gauge cost expenses for inventory, staff, mechanics and parts.

Step 3
Contact the Manufacturer. You must arrange who you will be purchasing inventory, equipment and orders from. Discuss warranty options, shipping fees and bills of sale regarding customs. Also ask about each manufacturer's requirements in terms of minimum purchasing orders and necessary liquidity. Keep in mind how much floor space you will need for bikes and other inventory.

Step 4
Market Your Shop. 8 out of 10 small businesses fail in the first year. Why? Marketing is a major factor that can determine your motorcycle shop's success. Your shop will need exposure and advertisements via print, online, and word-of-mouth. Communicate your mission, products and services to offer unique value to your customers.

Step 5
Hire Staff. Selected qualified and knowledgeable dealers and mechanics may be a challenge. They should have product knowledge, preferably a background in sales, and understanding of how the business works (products offered, financing options, brands, etc).

Step 6
Stock Up Inventory. Whether you are planning on a small or large shop, you will need all the necessary purchases, such as parts, motorcycle gear, and custom orders. Most shops start off as a small business so they must budget smart and not overstock their inventory.



Step 7
Get a Surety Bond For Your Motorcycle Dealership. Not only do states often requires this to obtain a business license, but it also protects your customers from their purchases and contracts. Your establishment will be much more trusted among clients with a Motorcycle Dealer Bond.

Ashton Agency has helped thousands of auto and motorcycle dealers nationwide to get their dealer bond and garage liability insurance at the best rates. Call (800) 451-4854 (East of the Mississippi) or (800) 452-2663 (West) to speak to one of our helpful customer service representatives to assist you with your bond today!

Used Car Sales To Rise in 2014

2013 was a great year for the used-car industry, and looks promising  in 2014. The executive automobile analyst of the National Automobile Dealers Association says used-car sales grew by 4 percent in 2013, the fourth consecutive year of growth.

More used cars were sold by franchise dealers than independent dealers in 2013. Certified pre-owned sales hit 2 million for the first time, making up 13.5 percent of franchise dealer used-car sales. However, chief economist Tom Webb expects a more even balance between franchise and independent with more vehicles available this year.

Nearly eighty percent of auto dealers in a survey believe the U.S. economy has already reached its lowest point and now on the rise. There are plans by many dealers to increase their floor plan due to steadily gains. Several experts in the auto industry would agree--there is reason to believe in strong optimism for 2014.

Are you an auto dealer looking to renew your dealers bond? Ashton Agency has helped thousands of auto dealers nationwide to get their auto dealer bond and garage liability insurance at the best rates! Call us today at (800) 451-4854 (East of the Mississippi) or (800) 452-2663 (West) to speak with one of our helpful customer service representatives (hablamos español).