Your Guide to Getting Started at Auction
Buying at auction is one of the fastest, fairest, and most exciting ways to purchase equipment, work vehicles, or real estate. Whether it’s your first auction or your fiftieth, we’re here to make the process simple and transparent.
Getting Started
How do I register to bid?
Registration is quick and secure. When you see the lot (or item) you'd like to bid on in a particular sale, click the button on the left side of the page that says, "register to bid." Once clicked, just follow the prompts. You’ll need to input your basic contact information and, in some cases, a valid form of payment for verification. Please note that once you click the button, it will take you to a different website that is hosting our auction - that's normal and part of the registration process.
Still have questions? Watch this video to learn more!
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Is there a fee to register or bid?
In most cases, registration is free. However, please note for some lots and for some of our auctions, you may be required to provide a refundable deposit or credit card authorization. This helps us verify serious bidders.
Can anyone participate?
Yes. Most auctions are open to the public. Dealer-only sales will be clearly marked, and any license requirements will be listed in the auction details.
How will I know I’m approved to bid?
Once your registration is complete and approved, you’ll receive a confirmation email with login details and bidding instructions.
Understanding the Bidding Process
How does bidding work?
Each lot has a starting bid and minimum bid increments. Simply click “Bid Now” to enter your bid. The system will notify you instantly if you’re the high bidder—or if you’ve been outbid.
Can I set a maximum bid?
Yes. Enter your highest amount, and our system will automatically bid on your behalf up to that limit, ensuring you stay in the running without constant monitoring.
What does “as-is, where-is” mean?
All lots are sold in their current condition with no warranties or guarantees. It’s the bidder’s responsibility to inspect lots and review descriptions before bidding.
What’s the difference between “absolute” and “reserve” auctions?
An absolute auction means the item sells to the highest bidder, regardless of price. A reserve auction means the seller has set a minimum price that must be met before the lot sells.
What’s a “soft close”?
If a bid is placed within the final moments of an online auction, the timer extends slightly—ensuring everyone has a fair chance to bid again.
What does it mean when an auction says "Online and Live, In-Person Bidding"?
This means the auction will be hosted both online and in-person. If you choose to participate virtually online, you have the flexibility to place bids from anywhere you have internet access. If you choose to participate in-person, you would drive to the location where the auction is being hosted. Please note that sometimes the location of the auction isn't necessarily where the company or property is located, so it is critical you read the auction description to understand where and when in-person bidding will take place. During an auction that is running both online and in-person, someone from Motleys will be onsite monitoring the online bids coming in, and will let the auctioneer know where online bids stand so they can be included in the in-person bidding process.
Is there a bidding advantage to being onsite when an auction is both online or in-person?
No. During an auction that is running both online and in-person, someone from Motleys will be onsite monitoring the online bids coming in, and will let the auctioneer know where online bids stand so they can be included in the in-person bidding process.
Can I place my bid online before the auction starts?
You will see a date and time on the left of the auction title that says, "Start" after it. This start date and time signals when you can actively place your bid online.
During the Auction
Can I watch the auction live?
Yes! Many of our auctions feature real-time updates and live bidding feeds. Follow along on any device.
What if I lose internet connection while bidding?
Your existing bids remain valid, and you can log back in anytime before the lot closes to continue bidding.
Can I bid on multiple items at once?
Absolutely. You can track multiple lots and manage all your bids from your dashboard.
After the Auction
How will I know if I’ve won?
Winners are notified immediately by email. You can also check your account dashboard for results and invoices.
When and how do I pay?
Payment instructions are included in your invoice. We accept most major forms of payment—details will be listed in each auction’s terms. Payment is typically due within 24–48 hours of the sale closing.
What is a Buyer’s Premium?
A Buyer’s Premium is a standard auction fee (usually a percentage of the final bid) added to the winning bid amount. It will always be disclosed before you bid.
How do I pick up my items?
Pickup dates, times, and location details are included in the auction terms and your invoice. Please bring your ID and a copy of your paid receipt.
Can I send someone else to pick up my items?
Yes, but please notify us in advance and provide written authorization.
Is shipping available?
Shipping or third-party transport may be available depending on the auction. Check the auction details or contact us for assistance.
Inspection & Condition
Can I inspect items before bidding?
Yes. "Preview" days or "Open Houses" are posted for our auctions, when available. We encourage bidders to inspect in person or contact us for condition details before bidding.
Are items guaranteed to work?
Unless otherwise stated, all items are sold as-is, where-is with no warranties. Always review the descriptions, photos, and inspection reports. Be sure to click the "Terms" tab that is part of the auction to read more.
Policies & Terms
Can I retract a bid?
All bids are final once placed. Please bid carefully and confirm before submitting. Be sure to click the "Terms" tab that is part of the auction to read more.
What if an item description seems inaccurate?
We strive for accuracy in every listing. If you notice a discrepancy, contact us before bidding—we’ll be glad to clarify.
Can I return something after the auction?
No. All sales are final, so please review all terms and inspect items prior to bidding. Please read the "Terms" tab that is part of the auction.
Online Bidding Support
What devices or browsers work best?
For the best experience, we recommend the latest version of Chrome, Edge, or Safari.
Need help?
Our team is always here to guide you through the process. Contact us before or during any auction—no question is too small. For Motleys Industrial auctions, please call 804-486-4550. For Motleys Real Estate auctions, please call 804-486-4555.
