Car auction: How to buy cars at auction

At a car auction by Greenfield Auctions, vehicles are offered which, due to their design, are mainly used for passenger transport. The classic form of car auction takes place in our auction house. We are also one of the auction houses that have recognised the potential of modern technology and allow auctions to take place online.

At a car auction, you place your bid and, with a bit of luck, the highest bid is actually achieved. Newer as well as older vehicles up to the classic car: At a car auction of Greenfield Auctions everything can be found.

This is how a car auction works

If you are interested in a car auction, it is customary to register with our auction house Greenfield Auctions. An identity card and confirmation of registration are absolutely necessary for a car auction. In a previously provided catalogue you can get an overview of the cars on offer. In this catalogue, all information about the car is disclosed and pictures are shown.

By assigning a fixed number, the bidders know the order of the cars offered at the auction. However, the catalogue only offers a rough orientation. All bidders also have the opportunity to have the cars inspected. Most bidders take an expert with them to the inspection so that no wrong purchase is made. To ensure that the bidder gets a real bargain at a car auction, you should research the vehicle value beforehand.

Free car valuations can help you choose a suitable maximum amount. In the end, the highest bidder wins the bid and a binding purchase contract is concluded.

Special features of car auctions

You do not have to be present at some car auctions. Bids for car auctions therefore do not necessarily have to be made on the spot. In this case, you can set a maximum bid in writing in advance. Some auction houses also offer the possibility of placing bids by telephone.

But the Internet is also playing an increasingly important role in car auctions at our auction house. It is not uncommon for bids to now be placed by e-mail and for auctions to be followed directly via live stream. At car auctions, the Dutch model is also used time and again. In this case, the highest bid is placed first. Whoever accepts the bid first in this reverse auction wins the auction and a purchase contract is concluded.

This is how the maximum amount can be achieved at a car auction

If the maximum amount is to be achieved at a car auction, the consignor must ensure that all scratches have been polished and all other defects have been repaired. In general, the car must be in good condition. The interior must also be cleaned again. After a thorough car wash, the first pictures can be taken.

A well-maintained car that has been serviced regularly usually always fetches a higher price. In addition to meaningful pictures, the auction description must not be faulty. The auction pictures must show the car from all sides. If there is damage to the car, this must also be shown. Otherwise, scratches or dents that are not shown can be interpreted as a hidden defect, so that the bidder can withdraw from the purchase contract.

What has to be considered at a car auction?

Whether it is a classic auction or an online auction, bidders should inform themselves well in advance about the car being offered as well as about the auction house. While some auction houses only admit commercial buyers, we also welcome private individuals as bidders. Furthermore, it does not hurt to check in which steps bids can be placed, what the payment modalities are and what fees apply.

In an online auction, the car usually has to be collected directly by the seller. This usually incurs not inconsiderable costs. You should not start bidding too early at a car auction. Otherwise, the personal highest bid can be reached too quickly. If you need a realistic valuation of your car, please contact us.