A guide to auctions: how it works

The motor auction is a market place for used cars whereby the price is driven by competitive bidding. The cars are sourced from local garages, main agents, the motor trade, finance repossessions, fleet companies and private individuals. Our role is to bring the buyer and seller together and achieve a satisfactory resolution.

Each week, we see a complete variety of vehicles passing through our auction hall - all makes, models, sizes and prices. It is not unusual to see the odd caravan or boat, and when you combine this with the commercial vehicles, it all adds up to an interesting blend providing the prospective purchaser with a vast choice.

We have three auctions per week with potentially up to three hundred vehicles available for sale.  Our experienced staff are always on hand to offer assistance whether or not it is your first visit to our premises.  We appreciate that the most important part of our business is our customers, so we will endeavour to provide the best service possible.

Private Individuals
We appreciate that an auction can be a daunting prospect to some people.  One of our aims is to ensure that our staff offer the necessary help to overcome any apprehensions you may have with their expertise.  We pride ourselves on being friendly and approachable.  If you are thinking of selling, never forget that the auction provides security – there is no need to let strangers view your car in your home environment.

Trade Customers
Why not speak to us about our special services to the trade.  For our regular users who buy and sell in quantity, we can offer tailor-made services and special rates to maximise both efficiency and profit within your business.  Phone us today to find out what we can do for you!

Remember, our customers are the most important link in our business, and we value your business.

The Auction
The exciting part! The cars are driven into the auction hall, and each stops in front of the rostrom. The auctioneer reads the details from the entry form and starts the bidding.  When there are no more bids the auctioneer will sell the car to the highest bidder, providing the bid meets or exceeds the reserve price.  If the bid is fairly close to the reserve the auctioneer will record a provisional bid.  The car is driven out of the hall and is succeeded by the next lot number.

We recommend that if you are new to auctions, you attend one sale to get a feel for how an auction works so you are comfortable and confident before you try and bid.