How does the iBiD process work?
Start here: buying, selling and auction process guides
Buy a machine · Sell a machine · List auction items · Buy auction items
Plan a machinery auction from the first equipment list through final pickup. These guides help buyers research a lot, sellers prepare accurate listings, and both sides budget for the work needed to move machinery safely.
iBiD auction fees: 15% buyer’s fee and 15% seller’s fee. The buyer’s fee is added to the winning bid; the seller’s fee is deducted from the sale proceeds. Taxes and separately agreed services are additional where applicable. See fee examples and total-cost planning.
Start with your next step
- How to list and sell machinery at auction: ownership, equipment records, photos, lot grouping, reserves, site planning and settlement.
- How to buy machinery at auction: research, registration, bidding, payment and pickup.
- Auction inspection and research checklist: verify the exact machine, condition, accessories, controls and production fit.
- Auction fees and total-cost examples: work from your budget to a maximum bid and estimate seller proceeds.
- Decommissioning, rigging and removal guide: define contractor scope, access, disconnection, loading, freight and reinstallation.
Understand the sale before choosing a lot
An auction lot may be one machine, several items sold together, or a quantity priced per unit. Confirm the bidding basis and included items. A photo may show neighboring equipment that is not included. “Untested” does not mean operational, and a demonstration does not establish a warranty. Confirm the applicable condition and warranty terms before bidding.
Research specifications and the actual machine separately
Use the manufacturer and model library to identify the machine family and questions to ask. Then compare the lot’s serial plate, installed options, control version and condition. A model reference is not proof of the configuration or performance of a particular lot. Browse sold machinery for context, but a sold label or displayed price is not proof of an auction hammer price or the seller’s net proceeds.
What must be clear for each event
- Inspection arrangements, bidding schedule, time zone, extensions, increments and any reserve or seller approval.
- Registration requirements, deposit rules if any, payment methods and due date.
- Lot contents, condition disclosures, fee basis, taxes and any fixed removal charges.
- Pickup window, site restrictions, approved contractors, insurance requirements and responsibility for disconnection, loading and damage.
- Release instructions and the process for unresolved questions, missed pickup or a condition discrepancy.
Planning an auction?
Tell iBiD about your machinery or shop/plant project. Sending information starts a review; it does not automatically publish a listing or open bidding. Buyers should use the registration instructions for the specific event when available.
Before committing: Read the terms for the specific auction and lot, and resolve missing or conflicting details with iBiD in writing. This guide explains preparation; it does not set payment deadlines, pickup dates, deposit rules, warranties, or other event terms.
iBiD Machinery · Updated October 14, 2026