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Navigating Title Management: FAQs for Independent Dealers

Two men shaking hands over a set of car keys and a calculator.

Strong auto dealer title management keeps your inventory moving and your cash flow steady. When titles are delayed, lost or unclear, deals stall and frustration builds.
To help you stay organized, here are some of the most common questions independent dealers have about vehicle title tracking, dealership title shipping and troubleshooting through the AFCDealer® portal.

Managing Titles and Vehicle Title Tracking


How can I manage my titles and check their status?

You can manage your independent dealer title processing directly through the titles AFCDealer® portal. 

From your dashboard, you can:

  • View high-quality images of your vehicle titles
  • Monitor payments and payoff status
  • Access a 7-day title tracking history
  • Use direct FedEx links for real-time shipping updates

If you’re wondering how to track a vehicle title shipment, the “Title Tracking” tab gives you instant visibility during the most important release window. 

I paid off my floorplan, but I don’t see a tracking number yet. What should I do?

During the floorplan title release process, titles are not released the exact moment payment is made. Understanding the typical title releases after the payoff timeline helps prevent unnecessary delays.

Please allow one business day for processing.

If you don’t see tracking information after that timeframe: 

  • Confirm the payment has fully processed
  • Check your Title Tracking tab
  • Contact your local AFC branch for an update

How do I send a title to AFC?

We make dealership title shipping simple and secure.

You can print a FedEx shipping label directly through the AFCDealer® platform. AFC provides up to three label prints per day at no cost to you.

Using the platform ensures:

  • Faster document routing
  • More secure title shipping for dealerships
  • Better visibility into delivery status

Following proper dealership title best practices reduces lost paperwork and processing delays

Resolving Roadblocks and Missing Documents


What if there is an error on the title I received or documents are missing?

Mistakes happen, but quick action matters. Fast reporting helps resolve missing vehicle title dealership challenges before they impact a sale.

If you notice any of the following, please contact your local AFC branch immediately:

  • An incorrect name or address
  • A lienholder discrepancy
  • Missing paperwork

How do I request a Lien Release Letter after payoff?

For all Lien Release Letter requests, please contact your local AFC branch directly.

These documents are part of the official title release after the payoff process and may require verification before issuance. 

Responsibilities and Negotiability


Is AFC responsible for checking if a title is negotiable?

No. Dealers are responsible for verifying title negotiability. 

Through the AFCDealer® portal, you have full access to title images so you can confirm negotiability before resale.

For non-auction purchases (NAP) like a trade-in, you may attempt a negotiation check through AFC or your local branch. However, verifying title status remains part of proper auto dealer title management. 

I bought a vehicle at auction, but AFC isn’t showing the title. What now?

AFC follows up with auctions when titles are missing. However, the ultimate responsibility for securing auction titles belongs to the dealer.

Important reminder:

Once a vehicle is paid off, AFC will no longer follow up on missing titles with the auction. Proactive follow-up is a key part of strong independent dealer title processing and inventory control. 

Terms to Know


Keep Your Titles and Your Deals Moving

Don’t let title delays slow down your sales. Log into the AFCDealer® platform to track your shipments, manage payoffs and stay ahead of potential roadblocks.

Disclaimer: Descriptions of AFC floorplans are for illustrative purposes only. Terms of AFC floorplan financing are subject to a final written agreement acceptable with AFC. AFC does not guarantee any results for floorplan financing and examples are for illustrative purposes only. Dealers should consult their own advisors to make independent business decisions regarding floorplan financing. “AFC” refers to Automotive Finance Corporation, Automotive Finance Canada Inc., and AFC Cal, LLC in their respective jurisdictions

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