Curbstoning is the practice of selling vehicles commercially while pretending to be a private individual. It sidesteps licensing, disclosure obligations and the consumer protections that attach to dealer sales.
The motive is usually to move vehicles with problems a licensed dealer would have to disclose, such as branded titles, flood damage or rolled-back odometers.
The signs are recognisable. The seller wants to meet somewhere other than their home, the title is not in their name, they have several vehicles advertised on the same phone number, and they are vague about the vehicle's history.
Why it matters
You lose the protections of a dealer sale and you are dealing with someone whose business model depends on you not checking.
How to check it
Confirm the name on the title matches the seller's identification. Search their phone number for other listings.
Does this apply to the car you are looking at?
Run the VIN or plate and see what is actually on record.
Related terms
Definitions are general guidance, not legal advice. Title rules, total loss thresholds and inspection requirements are set by each state and change over time, so confirm the position with the motor vehicle agency for the state the vehicle is titled in before relying on it.