New data from remarketing company Manheim suggests dealers shouldn’t presume that stock can be sold for more at the start of next year.

During winter 2012/13, Manheim says the wholesale value achieved at auction was actually higher in December than in January.

In December 2012, the average selling price was £5,361, falling significantly to £4,786 in January 2013.

The average reserve price for the same period fell by £666, from £5,501 to £4,835, while the average CAP clean value fell from £5,699 to £4,980.

Daren Wiseman, valuation services manager at Manheim, said: “The figures suggest that ‘the January bounce’ that many vendors rely on to maximise wholesale values is not always the most appropriate approach within the current market.

“There are many reasons to sell before Christmas, but perhaps the most important is that costs involved with holding on to stock will be minimised.

“This, in turn, will provide a strong balance sheet at the end of the year and can enable volume targets to be reached.”