From Moratoriums to Market Fluctuations to Disappearing Agents — a Lender’s Conundrum
Auto repossession, the process of reclaiming a vehicle from a borrower who has defaulted on their loan payments, has become a more challenging and time-consuming process in the current environment than ever before. Why?
Let’s explore some of the reasons the repo man is taking far longer these days than what we’re accustomed to — and what this means for auto lenders.
- Still-Lingering Effects of COVID-19: The many disruptions related to the pandemic caused significant challenges to many industries, including the auto lending and repossession sectors. Business closures, reduced staff, and health concerns among repo agents during the height of the pandemic led to a slowdown in the repossession process. Even more than 5 years later, the industry continues to feel the ripple effect of these disruptions.
- Moratoriums on Repossessions: During the pandemic, many localities implemented moratoriums on repossessions to provide financial relief to struggling borrowers . While these measures were necessary at the time, they created a backlog of repossessions and disrupted normal processes, leaving lenders to navigate the lingering operational and financial impacts even after the moratoriums were lifted .
- Closure of Repossession Companies: Many repo agents and repossession companies could not outlast the many obstacles of the pandemic era. In fact, it’s estimated that 30% of repossession companies closed permanently during this time due to these financial challenges. As a result, there are now far fewer repo agents available to handle the now-increasing demand for repossessions.
- Shortage of Repossession Lots: As repossession companies shuttered, their lots had to shut down or were repurposed for other uses, reducing the number of secure locations to store repossessed vehicles. The limited availability of storage lots adds to today’s logistical challenges for repo agents and lenders. In other words, not only are there fewer agents to go get the cars, there are fewer agent lots to put the cars on!
- Overwhelming Demand: Even years after the pandemic, the repossession industry continues to face challenges as demand for repo services remains high. A shortage agents and storage lots means the number of repossessions still exceeds available capacity, leading to delays. This competitive environment has forced lenders to adapt, often seeking creative solutions to ensure their vehicles are recovered in a timely manner.
- Industrywide Strain: The challenges faced in auto repossessions are not isolated incidents related to the performance of any specific repossession company or other entity. These delays are widespread across the entire market, driven by ongoing industry complexities and economic fluctuations that continue to impact lenders and repo companies alike.
In today’s complex and continually adjusting economy, the best solution is for lenders is to work with trusted partners who are well aware of these challenges and who have the specialized expertise needed to overcome repossession hurdles.
At State National, we pride ourselves on going the extra step at every step — and we work closely with lenders to ensure that repossessions are as timely and expedient as possible. Our unique CARS (Claims Advocacy & Recovery Services) program can help you maximize financial results and slash the time and effort you spend dealing with collateral. We are in your corner and committed to serving you by remaining flexible and adaptable to tackle any challenges that may arise in the repossession process!
