What to Check Before You Bid at Auction | Equip-Bid | Help Center

Check on these every auction

Inspection dates: times you can see items in person before the auction closes.
times you can see items in person before the auction closes.
Closing date
when items start to close. An item stays open until no one bids on it in the final minutes
Removal date
when you pick up. By bidding, you agree to pick up during this window.
Location
where you pick up. It's the seller's address, not the Equip-Bid office.
Shipping
available on some auctions only. Check the Shipping tab.
Auction terms
the seller's rules for payment, pickup, loading and any special fees.

Inspection is your chance to check condition, take measurements and make sure an item fits what you need. It matters most for Open Box and Damaged items, vehicles, equipment and anything expensive.

If an auction doesn't offer inspection, read the description closely and message the seller with any questions before you bid.

That's why the listing and inspection times matter so much. Don't assume an accessory, attachment or feature is included unless the listing says it is. To learn what each condition label means, see Item conditions explained.

Know your total cost

Your winning bid isn't your final total. Your invoice adds a buyer's premium, a $1.50 item fee for each item and sales tax. Some sellers also add special fees, like removal or handling.

Equip-Bid auctions have an 18% buyer's premium. Here's an example for one item:

Example invoice for one item: winning bid (hammer price) $100.00, buyer’s premium (18%) $18.00, item fee $1.50, total before sales tax $119.50. — Sales tax is added based on the pickup location and the type of item.

Bid only what you mean to pay

Every bid is a max bid. Enter the most you'd pay, and we'll bid for you just enough to keep you in the lead. Bids can't be removed, so double-check the amount before you place it. See How bidding works.

Make a pickup plan

Winning is only half the deal. Before you bid, know how you'll get it home. Larger items may need:

A truck or trailer
Straps or tie-downs
Extra people to help load
Moving equipment like a dolly

Loading help varies by auction, so check the auction terms.

Contact the seller for information on their shipping policies.

If you don't pay or pick up

If you don't pay for or pick up your items on time, you may be charged fees. Repeated no-shows can lead to a permanent block. See Unpaid invoices, missed pickups and account holds.

Your before-you-bid checklist

Description and every photo
Condition label
Auction terms
Inspection dates
Total cost with buyer's premium and fees
Pickup dates and location
Shipping, if you need it
Your plan to get it home

Everything look good? Let the bidding begin.