There are many reasons your business may need automotive appraisals or appraisals for other types of vehicles. You may need to establish a fair market value or actual cash value; you may need to settle an insurance dispute; or you may need to provide collateral value for a loan. What ever the reason, getting a certified auto appraisal is the best way to determine the true value of your vehicle.

Companies that conduct automotive appraisals do more than estimate the value of cars. Most conduct three major types of common appraisals, including:

1. Truck and auto appraisals;

2. RV appraisals;

3. And motorcycle appraisals.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find a company to conduct truck and car appraisals

A certified auto appraisal can tell you what your company's fleet of cars and trucks is really worth. If you have a specialty or custom vehicle in your fleet, be sure to find an appraiser who has gone through the proper auto appraisal training to evaluate your vehicle.

I recommend: Auto Appraisals Unlimited is a national company that provides automobile appraisals. The company's team of experienced automotive appraisers can conduct appraisals at any location nationwide. Simatos Automotive Appraisals is a full-service firm that provides appraisals for corporations, museums and insurance companies.

Choose a company to conduct RV appraisals

Recreational vehicles are unique vehicles that require a more detailed appraisal. You'll want to find an RV appraisal company that takes into account everything, even seemingly insignificant items such as custom interior lighting, that can raise the value of your vehicle.

I recommend: As the name implies, Automotive Appraisal Services Group appraises cars, trucks and recreational vehicles. But the firm has developed a special appraisal process specifically for recreational vehicles and motor homes. Dato Marketing Associates also specializes in RV appraisals. The company uses wholesale NADA and Kelley Blue Book pricing to create its appraisal reports.

Locate a company to conduct motorcycle appraisals

Knowing the true value of your motorcycles can help protect you in case of an accident or theft. Motorcycles are different than other types of vehicles, so when choosing a company to conduct your motorcycle appraisal, consider a company that specializes in motorcycles.

I recommend: Old Dice Motorcycle Appraisals is a fully insured motorcycle appraisal company that operates out of New Jersey. The company provides appraisals for all types of motorcycles, including customs and classics. Bullseye Automotive Appraisal provides a wide range of appraisal services from the company's offices in North Carolina. The staff promises to work quickly to determine the true value of your motorcycle.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When choosing an automotive appraisals company, make sure the firm is a member of an accreditation group, such as the American Society of Appraisers. Also make sure the appraiser is a certified appraiser with an organization such as the International Automotive Appraisers Association.