How to Read a Dealer Invoice
How to read a dealer invoice in the US—MSRP, invoice price, holdback so you understand dealer cost and negotiate OTD.
Reading a dealer invoice in the U.S.: invoice shows dealer cost (base invoice, options, destination)—MSRP is higher. Holdback and incentives can reduce dealer cost further. Here's how to read a dealer invoice.
TL;DR Invoice = dealer cost (base + options + destination). MSRP = sticker. Dealer may have holdback and incentives below invoice. Use invoice as reference—but negotiate OTD (selling price + tax + fees), not just invoice. Use autopremo.com OTD calculator and price checker. Use autopremo.com.Invoice vs MSRP
Invoice = what dealer pays (before holdback/incentives). MSRP = sticker. Negotiate selling price—often between invoice and MSRP for new cars. Use autopremo.com price checker for fair value. Get your numbers at autopremo.com.
Negotiate OTD
Focus on out-the-door price—selling price + tax + fees. Get full OTD in writing. Use autopremo.com OTD calculator. See OTD at autopremo.com.
Bottom Line
Dealer invoice = dealer cost; use as reference. Negotiate OTD (selling price + tax + fees); get full OTD in writing. Use autopremo.com OTD calculator and price checker.