Every auction on Equip-Bid is run by a seller, and each one has its own terms, dates and pickup location. A few minutes of homework now means a smoother win and an easier pickup later.
Read the listing
Start with the description and every photo and video. Look for:
- Brand and model
- Measurements or dimensions
- Included parts and accessories
- Known damage or wear
- Testing or operating information
Don't assume an accessory, attachment or feature is included unless the listing says it is. Something you need to know isn't there? Message the seller from the auction page before you bid.
Check the condition label
Sellers use condition labels to show you what you're bidding on:
- Factory Sealed: In its original packaging and never opened.
- Appears New: Looks unused, but may have been opened, taken out of its packaging or handled.
- Open Box: The packaging has been opened. The item may have been inspected, tested, handled or returned.
- Damaged: Has known damage. Study the description and photos closely.
- Partial or Incomplete: May be missing pieces, parts or accessories. Check the listing for what's included.
The label is a starting point. Always read the full description and look at every photo too.
See Item conditions explained.
Know what as-is, where-is means
Every item sells as-is, where-is. You're buying it in its current condition, at its current location, with no guarantees. That's why the listing and inspection matter so much.
Inspect in person
Many auctions have inspection dates. You'll find them on the auction page. Use them.
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.
No inspection on this auction? Read the description closely and message the seller with any questions before you bid. Read How Auction Inspection Works and Why You Should Use It on our blog.
Review the auction details
Check these on every auction:
- Closing date and time: When items start to close.
- Pickup dates: When you pick up. By bidding, you agree to pick up during this window.
- Pickup location: The seller's address, not the Equip-Bid office. Check it before you bid, especially on anything that needs a truck or trailer.
- Shipping: Available on some auctions only, so never assume an item ships. Check the Shipping tab and contact the seller about their shipping policy.
- Inspection: The dates, times and location, if the auction offers one.
- Auction terms: The seller's rules for payment, pickup, loading and any special fees. When you bid, you agree to them.
Know your total cost
Your winning bid (the hammer price) 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 pickup or handling.
Equip-Bid auctions typically have an 18% buyer's premium, but check the auction terms to confirm. Here's an example for one item:
Set your max bid
No need to watch an auction all day. 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, up to your max.
Your max isn't automatically what you'll pay. If you win, you pay only what it took to stay on top. See How bidding works.
Watch the closing countdown
If someone bids in the final minutes, we add time to the clock. That gives every bidder a fair shot to respond, so no one wins by bidding at the last possible second. An item stays open until no one bids on it in those final minutes.
Really want something? Keep an eye on the countdown.
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
- A dolly or other moving equipment
- Extra people to help load
Loading help varies by auction, so check the auction terms.
See Pickup and shipping.
A bid is a promise to pay
When you bid, you're committing to buy the item if you win. Bids can't be removed, so take one last look at the item, your bid amount, the pickup details and the auction terms before you place it.
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
Before you stake your claim, check:
- Description, photos and videos
- 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.