LOS ANGELES — VINSCAN, a VIN barcode scanning device company, entered into a partnership this week with Carfax. Dealers now can use their VINSCAN handheld scanning device to access their Carfax account.

The partnership is intended to help dealers have easier access to Carfax Vehicle History Reports from almost any remote location.

Management explained that the VINSCAN device can eliminate the need to enter data manually or relay information to someone at a computer. Instead, inventory personnel can retrieve vehicle history reports and current values all while a unit is moving through the auction lanes.

VINSCAN said that its scanner is small, compact, lightweight and user-friendly. At auctions, the device can run on the available Wi-Fi network for free.

If a Wi-Fi connection is not available, the device can operate via the Internet using either the AT&T or the T-Mobile network. Executives also mentioned that VINSCAN can be set to function through a Verizon MI-FI card or Sprint Wi-Fi device.

Furthermore, the company reminded dealers that VINSCAN also can be used as a smartphone and PDA with text message capability that runs on the GSM network with Windows Mobile 5.0.

In addition, by making a separate purchase of GigglePop.com's subscription software, VINSCAN also can give dealers the ability to view three major value guides — Kelley Blue Book, Black Book and NADA Used Car Guide.

Corky Rice, co-owner of VINSCAN, said the company's new partnership with Carfax can augment the device's features.

"In today's market, running a Carfax Vehicle History Report before making a vehicle purchase is critical," Rice indicated.

"Dealers can get online to view vehicle history details from Carfax and other information they need prior to acquisition right from their VINSCAN device," he continued. "It's a must-have for on-the-go dealers and anyone who needs readily available access to vehicle history and values."

Rice believes in the capability of VINSCAN because he's been in the industry for more than 35 years.

"As a current buyer for a large dealer group, I know exactly what tools dealers need when out buying," Rice asserted.

"We thoroughly tested five different barcode scanning devices over several months to make sure we had the right product. It's very affordable and user-friendly for everyone," he added.

Dealers interested in purchasing a VINSCAN device can call (818) 398-3388 or send an e-mail to myvinscan@aol.com. More details also are available at www.vinscan.net.